Get an up-close view of history

Wales boasts a wealth of history packed into a stunning green package. Each of the major periods of history has left its mark. Love castles? Wales has lots, 641 to be exact. The Welsh are descended from the tribal Celts who were both fearless warriors and gifted artists. But Wales is also the place Romans mined for gold, the Normans built castles and the Tudor dynasty was founded. Welsh museums, most of them free, help put it all in perspective.

Hit the green

If golf is your thing the Ryder Cup is next played in Europe in September 2010, when it descends on Celtic Manor in Wales. In the meantime, there are over 200 golf courses in Wales to practice on. Hit the links at Nefyn and District Golf Course. Enjoy the salt air and don’t forget to stop for a pint when you’ve reached the ninth hole—there’s a pub right below it on the beach!