Tropical vibes, gorgeous beaches, and exotic seascapes await you in Phuket, Thailand's largest island. 32 smaller, rainforest-adorned islands surround Phuket and demand to be explored by boat. On land, a thriving nightlife awaits, not to mention tucked-away temples, bustling public markets, and enticing eateries.

In Edinburgh, an ancient fortress looms, the hills are steep, and travelers delight in the hidden charms of the Old Town and New Town. Hike to find spectacular views on Arthur's Seat, shop the downhill streets of the Royal Mile, and visit Edinburgh Castle, an imposing royal fortress that defines this city's skyline.

One of Japan's 60 core cities, Aomori is well-known for its beautiful landscapes. Favorite landscapes include the Hakkoda Mountains and Lake Towada. Another of the city's highlights is the Nebuta Matsuri, an annual festival known for its daily parade of giant, colorful lantern floats.

Traditionally regarded as the highest navigable body of water in the world (in reality there are higher lakes in Chile and Peru), Lake Titicaca is immense: its dimensions measure 233km from north-west to south-east and 97km from north-east to south-west. The lake has an indented shoreline, 36 islands and exceptionally clear sapphire-blue water.

Turks and Caicos Islands are located southeast of the Bahamas. The mean annual temperature is 85° F. Despite frequent hurricanes, the rainfall averages only 28 inches annually.