Lisbon, the enchanting capital of Portugal, entices sightseers with its vibrant color, stunning Gothic architecture, and temperate weather. Easily traversed by foot or tram, the city’s distinct quarters and vivid cultural landmarks make Lisbon an excellent spot for exploration.
The Coromandel Peninsula on New Zealand’s North Island is a place where coastline and culture come alive in ways that stay with visitors long after they’ve left. Stretching for about 110 kilometers between the Hauraki Gulf and the Bay of Plenty, this region has deep roots that go back to the arrival of Māori long before Europeans stepped ashore.
Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument stretches across southern Utah as a vast landscape of layered cliffs, winding canyons, and open desert plateaus. The land shifts in color from pale cream to deep red, depending on the angle of the sun, revealing rock layers that look like pages stacked over time. Much of the area feels remote, with long dirt roads like Hole-in-the-Rock Road leading travelers deep into quiet terrain where rock formations rise suddenly from flat ground.
Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a city where medieval charm meets modern allure. Nestled in the heart of Belgium's Flanders region, Bruges is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobblestone streets that invite visitors to step back in time.
Mijas, perched on the hillside above the Costa del Sol, blends centuries of Andalusian tradition with views that stretch across the Mediterranean. The whitewashed buildings of Mijas Pueblo reflect sunlight from narrow cobbled streets that wind through small plazas, each with its own fountain, chapel, or overlook. The town’s layout still follows Moorish-era planning, and remnants of the old wall (La Muralla) offer shaded walks lined with native plants and panoramic views over the coast.
Fatu Hiva, the southernmost of the Marquesas Islands, is a destination that feels like stepping back in time to a world untouched by modernity. This remote island is known for its breathtaking landscapes, where lush, verdant mountains rise dramatically from the deep blue sea. The iconic Bay of Virgins (Baie des Vierges) is one of the most stunning anchorages in the world, with towering rock spires that give the bay its ethereal beauty. Visitors to Fatu Hiva can explore this awe-inspiring bay by boat or on foot, discovering hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches along the way.
The island’s small village of Omoa offers a glimpse into traditional Marquesan life, with its charming thatched-roof houses and warm, welcoming locals. Artisans in Omoa are skilled in crafting tapa, a traditional cloth made from the bark of mulberry trees, often adorned with intricate designs that reflect the island's rich cultural heritage. Travelers can visit local workshops to observe the making of these unique pieces and perhaps take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Adventure enthusiasts will be captivated by the hiking opportunities on Fatu Hiva. The island’s rugged terrain is crisscrossed with trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, dense forests, and ancient archaeological sites. One of the most popular hikes is the trail from Omoa to Hanavave, which passes through lush valleys, towering cliffs, and offers spectacular views of the island’s coastline. This hike is not only a physical challenge but also a journey through the island’s past, as many trails were once used by the Marquesans for trade and communication.
Fun fact: Fatu Hiva is famous for being the starting point of Thor Heyerdahl's 1937 expedition that led to his bestselling book "Fatu-Hiva: Back to Nature". Heyerdahl and his wife attempted to live off the land in this remote paradise, drawing global attention to the island's pristine beauty and unique way of life.