TARRAGONA, SPAIN

This old Roman fort town has grown into a city of surprising contrasts. Built alongside the Mediterranean Sea, it has hosted centuries of fascinating history.  Not to mention the temporary haven for the Chartreuse liquor distillery when the monks were forced out of France in the 18th century. 

Each year, the Santa Tecla Festival is held here on the streets of Tarragona for 4 days and nights in late September.  The fireworks and dancing crowds are reminiscent of a Chinese New Year celebration. But this uniquely regional festival is one part danger (you'll get burned if you're standing in the wrong place at the wrong time) and one part visual spectacle.