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.
South Carolina draws travelers in with its layers of history, distinctive regional flavors, and landscapes that range from quiet marshes to mountain trails. In Charleston, cobblestone streets wind past antebellum homes and hidden courtyards. Beaufort, tucked along the Intracoastal Waterway, charms visitors with moss-draped oaks, shrimp boats, and preserved architecture that has earned it comparisons to a living movie set and was indeed, where several films, including *Forrest Gump*, were filmed.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, tucked into the rugged badlands of western North Dakota is where a young Theodore Roosevelt came to recover after the loss of his wife and mother in the same day. He bought a ranch, rode the open plains, and found the resolve that would later define his presidency. Today, the park named in his honor preserves that same wild spirit. Visitors can still see Roosevelt’s original Maltese Cross Cabin near the park's entrance and walk trails he once rode on horseback.
This gorgeous, breezy island is a lively paradise without equal. A celebratory atmosphere will be found here, from dance clubs and DJs to summer tourists simply reveling in the good life.
Austria’s Wachau Valley is a scenic stretch of the Danube River between Melk and Krems, known for its terraced vineyards, medieval towns, and a deep sense of history.
Custer State Park, nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, offers a tapestry of natural beauty and wildlife. Known for its scenic drives and outdoor activities, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. One of its most famous routes, the Needles Highway, weaves through towering granite spires and narrow tunnels, providing breathtaking vistas of the rugged terrain.
The park is also home to a remarkable array of wildlife. The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup held each fall, is a spectacle where visitors can witness hundreds of bison being gathered by cowboys and cowgirls. The park’s diverse ecosystems support not just bison, but also elk, pronghorn antelope, and a variety of bird species, making it a prime location for wildlife viewing and photography.
For those seeking adventure, Custer State Park offers numerous trails, including the Harney Peak Trail, which leads to the highest point in South Dakota and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the park features Sylvan Lake, a picturesque spot perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the shore.
Fun Fact: Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop Road is one of the best places in the U.S. to see free-roaming bison, offering visitors a chance to experience these majestic creatures up close.
Visit Custer State Park from late spring to early fall for the best weather and access to all activities, or plan your visit in early autumn to witness the dramatic colors of the changing leaves.