Victoria
British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.
Nuuksio National Park
Nuuksio National Park is a protected landscape of forests, lakes, rocky hills, and wetlands in southern Finland, close to the Helsinki metropolitan area. The park lies mainly in Espoo and extends into Kirkkonummi and Vihti, yet its terrain feels far removed from the nearby urban region. Pine and spruce forests cover much of the area, while numerous small lakes occupy hollows between granite ridges.
Monkey Mia
Monkey Mia, located within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area on the western coast of Australia, is a serene paradise known for its world-famous wild dolphin encounters. This remote coastal gem, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, invites visitors to experience up-close interactions with bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. For over 50 years, these dolphins have made daily visits to Monkey Mia’s shores, creating a unique tradition that brings awe to travelers.
Lake Bacalar
The white limestone bottom of this freshwater lagoon makes the vibrant aquamarine waters look even brighter. This blissful escape is perfect for kayaking or lounging and has smaller crowds than some of the more well-known tourist towns.
Mole National Park
Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest protected terrestrial area, covering a broad landscape of savanna woodland and grassland in the country’s northern region. The park lies near Larabanga and stretches across gently rolling terrain marked by seasonal streams, rocky outcrops, and wooded valleys. Its open habitats provide a clear contrast with the tropical forests of southern Ghana.
