I usually go here at least once every year. It is one of my absolute favourite locations on earth, because is is surrounded by so many countries cities of an entire continent: Eastern Europe. Head up north and you have Ukraine. Go South, and you're suddenly Turkey. How about visiting Romania? What about Bulgaria? The Black Sea is a vibrant meeting hub of cultures and peoples. If you're a good swimmer, I bet you could all meet up in the middle.

If you speak Russian, Odessa is great social place; a true melting pot to become acquainted with lively people and eat borscht, salo and chebureki.

In Istanbul, you can enjoy the sight of excellent historical architecture and vibrant markets of many crafts. You can buy almost anything at the mile-long bazaars.

There's nothing more distinct than a Russian or Ukrainian town. The cement-ridden atmosphere and the grey, Soviet buildings can work as a great way to readjust and get away from the tropical summer, and to just get to spend some quality time in a traditional Slavic city. Go to Odessa, Mariupol or maybe even Sevastovol (if you have a Russian tourist visa) to get the unique experience of daily, native life. Then you can head back to beach again.

By the by! Just getting your feet wet is not such as a bad idea either! ;)