Located in the east of the country, this is the relaxed, rural France of sunflowers and old charming villages. With nearly 2 million people in the region, you can find unique experiences and good eats.

To find the heart of a country, it often is a good idea to find smaller towns where the basic culture is readily apparent. In Alsace, the small towns of Obernai, Wissembourg and Petite Pierre are the places to go.

Following the Alsatian wine route, travelers will stumble upon Riquewihr, which is often referred to as the grand old lady of Alsatian vineyards. A gourmet glutton's delight, Riquewihr is bursting with culinary delicacies waiting to be savored. Next up is the town of Obernai...famous for mystical creatures.

Obernai is the odd bird in the Alscace region. Literally. Storks make it their home and the elegant birds are everywhere. The place is like a village out of a childrens story. The homes are even designed in the style of gingerbread houses.

While Obernai is a marvel unto itself, the town of Neuf-Brisach is so impressive it once prompted Louis the 14th to speak of it as a sparkling jewel. Neuf-Brisach is unlike any town that you have ever laid eyes on before thanks to the fortress that outlines the town in an octagonal shape.

An aerial view of Neuf-Brisach would reveal the town's best kept secret - this entire area is surrounded by stone walls that make it impossible to penetrate. Of course, as a visitor you'll have no problem walking through the town...but intruders are an altogether different story.

When it comes to traveling around the Alsace region, it is pretty hard to find a place that is not charming. From Ribeauville to Hunawihr to any town, you are going to find something unique and enjoyable.

Travel to France and it can be very easy to lose yourself in Paris. Make sure to tear yourself away. There is much more to the country. The Alsatian region is a great destination, so give it a try.