Cayenne, the lively capital of French Guiana, sits where the Cayenne River meets the Atlantic Ocean, blending South American rhythms with French-Caribbean influence. While it's officially part of France, Cayenne feels worlds away from Paris, with colorful markets, colonial architecture, and a language mix that includes French, Creole, Portuguese, and Indigenous dialects.
Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, also known as South Ari Atoll, lies southwest of Malé in the central Maldives and includes a mixture of inhabited islands, uninhabited islets, sandbanks, and resort islands. The atoll is surrounded by coral reefs and clear lagoon waters, while many of its inhabited islands retain compact communities shaped by fishing and maritime traditions. Mahibadhoo serves as the administrative capital, with Dhangethi, Dhigurah, Omadhoo, and Mandhoo among the better-known local islands.
From Rockhampton you can discover the richness and diversity of this region. To the east the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean lap the Capricorn Coast which is grandly decorated with stretches of sandy beaches, the Great Barrier Reef and semi-tropical islands.
Chetumal is the capital of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, located near the border with Belize on the western side of Chetumal Bay. Unlike the large resort centers farther north on the Caribbean coast, the city functions primarily as a government, commercial, and cultural center.
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Cortina d'Ampezzo is Italy's premier alpine destination, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and world-class ski resorts. Known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," this charming town has long been a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike. Cortina offers some of the best skiing in Europe, all set against the dramatic backdrop of UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountains .
Photo Credit: Photo by Alejandro Contreras on Unsplash
Yucatán, a Mexican state, is popular for its Gulf of Mexico beach areas and spectacular Mayan ruins. It is bordered by the states of Campeche and Quintana Roo. Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is also home to mystical cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water.
Popular Destinations in Yucatan
Mérida
Merida was once the sprawling capital of the Mayan empire and the center of their universe. Merida is now the center of a cosmopolitan universe, built on Mayan heritage, and given a unique twist by French and Mediterranean immigrants. Days are spent exploring the city's many museums and equally fascinating shopping districts. At night, local music can be heard from just about every park in the city, inviting newcomers to enjoy a romantic and fun-filled evening.
Valladolid
Valladolid is the name of both a province and the city that is its capital. It is the current capital of Castilla y León and the largest city in the region. It is famous for its beautiful gardens and the solemnity and grace of its Holy Week celebrations. The people of Valladolid claim to speak "the pure Spanish."