Taupō, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is built along the shores of Lake Taupō, which is the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, formed nearly two thousand years ago by a massive volcanic eruption. That eruption was so powerful, it was recorded in ancient Chinese and Roman texts, even though it occurred halfway across the world. Today, the lake is calm, clear, and central to life in the region, offering everything from trout fishing to kayaking and lakeside cycling.
Al Ain is located about 160 km east of Abu Dhabi, and has its own international airport, which opened in 1994. Its many attractions include camel races, ancient forts, a zoo, museums, and the Jabal Hafit Mountain.
Douglas is the capital of the Isle of Man, occupying a broad bay on the island’s eastern coast and serving as its main commercial, cultural, and transport center. The town developed around a natural harbor and remains closely connected to the sea, with the Douglas Sea Terminal handling ferry services and other vessels.
Branson, Missouri may be tucked into the Ozark Mountains, but there's nothing quiet about its entertainment scene. Since the 1960s, the town has built its reputation on live music, with more than 100 shows running at peak season. From country and gospel to comedy and magic, Branson’s theaters offer family-friendly entertainment nearly every night of the week. The Presleys' Country Jubilee, the first show on what is now 76 Country Boulevard, still packs the house after more than 50 years.
Calistoga is a small city at the northern end of Napa Valley in Northern California, surrounded by vineyards, oak-covered hills, and volcanic landscapes. Its location near Mount Saint Helena gives the area a different setting from the broader valley floor farther south, with wooded mountains rising around the community. Calistoga is particularly associated with geothermal springs, which have supported bathing and wellness traditions for generations.
An intellectual and religious center during the Middle Ages, Linköping has grown into a modern center for technology and higher education. This city of over 130,000, lying southwest of Stockholm, enjoyed rapid growth after the founding of Linköping University, the Institute of Technology and the University Hospital.
Even though Linköping has developed into an industrial center and is Sweden's fifth-largest city, it maintains a small-town atmosphere. Old Linköping is the restored town center with preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The tower of the impressive Linköping Cathedral, which took nearly 300 years to complete, can be seen from a distance of more than 10 kilometers.
One of Sweden's top attractions, the Göta Canal, passes through the countryside just outside Linköping. At nearby sister city Norrkoping is Himmelstalund, one of the largest rock carving sites in Europe.
Other Popular Destinations in Sweden
Stockholm
As a city located in a Baltic Sea archipelago, it's not surprising that Stockholm has 50 bridges and sightseeing boats moving people between its 14 islands. This contemporary and welcoming capital of Sweden is nonetheless easily navigable by foot. Every district here has a distinct flavor, from the sophisticated Östermalm to the bustling downtown energy of Norrmalm to the delightful Old Town.
Gothenburg
Gothenburg, Sweden’s vibrant west coast gem, offers a perfect blend of maritime charm, innovative design, and sustainable living. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and classic Nordic architecture, Gothenburg invites visitors to explore its rich history and modern flair. The city’s heart is anchored by the famous Kungsportsavenyen (Avenyn), a grand boulevard lined with cafes, boutiques, and cultural landmarks like the Gothenburg Museum of Art.