Ishigaki, the vibrant hub of the Yaeyama Islands in Japan, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. As the largest island in the Yaeyama group, Ishigaki is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters, such as the pristine Kabira Bay, famous for its turquoise hues and coral reefs.
Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.
Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Seychelles, offers a pristine and unparalleled escape into nature's untouched beauty. The atoll, the second-largest in the world, is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and is home to the Aldabra giant tortoise, a species found nowhere else on Earth. This enormous tortoise population is one of the key attractions for visitors, providing a rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled).
Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, is a tropical paradise bursting with natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. As the gateway to this island nation, Mahé offers visitors a captivating blend of lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and charming local culture. The island's capital, Victoria, is a lively hub where you can explore colorful markets, such as the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, which is a great place to experience local flavors and pick up unique souvenirs.
Central Asia stretches from the Caspian Sea in the west to China and Mongolia in the east, and from Afghanistan and Iran in the south to Russia in the north, including the former Soviet republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.