Norfolk Island may be small but it carries a story that spans centuries. Located in the South Pacific between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia, the island is a fascinating blend of Polynesian roots, British convict history, and Pitcairn Island culture. Today, visitors can walk through one of the best-preserved penal settlements in the world at Kingston, where stone ruins and restored Georgian buildings stand against a backdrop of green hills and the open sea.
Socotra rises from the Arabian Sea like a world apart, its landscapes shaped over millennia. The Dragon’s Blood Trees, with their umbrella-shaped crowns and deep red sap, stand among the most iconic sights here. In places like Dixam Plateau and Homhil Forest, these trees gather in sparse formations, creating scenes that feel both ancient and alien. The resin remains valued for traditional dyes and remedies.
Passau sits on the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz, so it is fitting that it is known as "the Dreiflüssestadt", which means the “City of Three Rivers.” The historical center offers a cathedral, churches and museums to explore, and the embankment is perfect for a romantic stroll.
Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a city where medieval charm meets modern allure. Nestled in the heart of Belgium's Flanders region, Bruges is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobblestone streets that invite visitors to step back in time.
Las Palmas (officially Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) is the capital of Gran Canaria island as well as co-capital (along with Santa Cruz de Tenerife) of the Canary Islands. It is a major cruise-ship port known for duty-free shopping and sandy beaches, including Playa de Las Canteras, considered by many to be one of the best urban beaches worldwide.