Eight rivieras from around the world (that aren’t French)
The Costa del Sol in Spain is also known as the Spanish Riviera.PARIS, May 16 — As the Cannes film festival gets underway, the French Riviera will once again be under the spotlight, in every sense of the world. But there are plenty of places around the world which offer its glamorous holiday mix — here, a selection of eight of the best.
English Riviera
The warmth of the English south coast may not be as appealing as the French, but it’s got a certain charm. It’s well known for waterspouts and its pretty towns, including Torquay, Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham.
Chinese Riviera
The development on Hainan’s west coast has left parts of the island looking more like Hong Kong than Cannes, but there’s no denying that there is plenty of sun, sea and sand to make this a worthy global riviera. Many would add a fourth ‘S’ — shopping.
Spanish Riviera
The Costa del Sol manages to offer pretty seaside towns despite being one of Europe’s most popular destinations for decades now. Head further inland to escape the resorts of the coastline, or visit the main towns of Benidorm, Valencia or Cartagena to soak up the nightlife.
Japan’s Shizuoka Prefecture is home to hot springs and spectacular mountain scenery.Shizuoka Prefecture
The ‘Japanese Riviera’ sits along the Pacific coastline of Japan and is home to hot springs and spectacular mountain scenery, with Mount Fuji rising in the background.
American Riviera
The Mediterranean-like climate of Santa Barbara in California earned it the nickname of American Riviera, which was quickly trademarked by tourism authorities. ‘Where Life Itself is a Fine Art’ is the slogan used to promote the Spanish-influenced city.
Canadian Riviera
Perhaps chillier than most rivieras, Vancouver Island is popularly known as Canada’s answer to the Côte d’Azur, with pretty beaches, plenty of shimmering blue ocean and all the convenient trappings of a tourist resort.
Mayan Riviera
The Caribbean coastline of Mexico has boomed with the growth of global tourism, large-scale resorts coming to dominate the coastline that lies south of Cancun. Water sports and snorkelling the barrier reef system are among the most popular draws.
Italian Riviera
Liguria’s coastline boasts a year-round mild climate and ancient, charming villages and ports now in short supply in the nearby French riviera. It’s been a tourist draw for centuries, but manages to retain plenty of hidden gems hidden between the coastal hills. — AFP/Relaxnews
