Paris at $512 RT

I bet you think you know France — Paris's glittering Tower, world-class cheese, croissants on every corner… but let’s shake things up a bit, shall we?

This time when your plane touches down, hop on a car/shuttle/bus/train and head west. Allllllll the way west, until you reach the coast. And then go a tiny bit further. 

This dramatic monastery rising from the sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site—and a magnet for day-trippers. But here’s the insider move: book early to snag a room on the island itself. After 7 p.m., it’s just you, the tide, and centuries of history.

Their claim to fame is a special caramel made of Normandy’s famously rich, salted butter. Served on crêpes, swirled into ice cream—even spooned straight from the jar.

Self-control? Never heard of her.

PS: Look up the posted schedule and aim your trip for a super tide for the most dramatic waters.