In ancient times, Kaanapali was a royal retreat for the rulers of Maui, who delighted in the perfect three-mile stretch of white sand beach, the gentle waves, warm sunny days and the majestic West Maui Mountains. Maui royalty surfed, raced their outrigger canoes, feasted at luaus that lasted for weeks, and where the Kaanapali Golf Course now blankets the land, they played ulu maika, a form of lawn bowling with heavy lava balls.

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Nelson Lakes National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This breathtaking park is renowned for its stunning lakes, dense beech forests, and rugged mountains. The twin lakes, Rotoiti and Rotorua, are the park's crown jewels, offering crystal-clear waters framed by lush greenery. Visitors can explore these serene lakes by taking a scenic boat ride or embarking on a picturesque hike along their shores.

Kuopio, Finland, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an alluring destination for visitors. Nestled in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, Kuopio is surrounded by the serene waters of Lake Kallavesi, offering stunning panoramic views from the famous Puijo Tower. This 75-meter observation tower provides a sweeping vista of the lake and the rolling hills.

Arikok National Park, covering nearly 20% of Aruba, is a striking showcase of the island’s rugged landscapes, cultural history, and biodiversity. Unlike the postcard image of Aruba’s white-sand beaches, Arikok reveals a wilder side, with windswept hills, desert-like terrain, and dramatic limestone cliffs meeting the sea.

Salamanca, often called the “Golden City” for the warm glow of its sandstone buildings, is a place where centuries of stories are etched into every wall. Visit its historic center to wander through cobbled streets lined with architectural marvels. The University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe and still buzzes with student life.