Nicaragua offers travelers a look into centuries of layered history set against striking natural backdrops. Visitors can tour the baroque-style Granada Cathedral, take a boat ride through Las Isletas (a chain of small, volcanic islands in Lake Nicaragua), or climb the bell tower of Iglesia La Merced for sweeping city views.
Nestled in Kenya's Rift Valley, Nakuru is a city that captivates with its stunning natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. The city is renowned for Lake Nakuru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary flocks of flamingos that once numbered in the millions. Although flamingo populations fluctuate, the lake remains a sanctuary for other bird species and wildlife, including black and white rhinos, giraffes, and lions.
Pingyao, a city steeped in ancient charm, offers a remarkable glimpse into China’s rich history. This well-preserved city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its classical ancient architecture, which remains largely intact since the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through the Pingyao Ancient City Wall, a formidable structure that encircles the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Sun Peaks is a mountain village in British Columbia, Canada, located northeast of Kamloops in the interior region of the province. The community is built around Sun Peaks Resort, one of Canada’s largest ski destinations, but the area also functions as a year-round alpine village with hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and access to surrounding forests.
Photo Credit: Photo by Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa on Unsplash
Doubtful Fjord (Doubtful Sound) is a large fjord in southwestern New Zealand, in the same region as the smaller but better known Milford Sound. It is home to an unusually large population of bottlenose dolphins, as well as a variety of birds, fur seals, penguins, and often even humpback whales.
Unlike Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is inaccessible by road, so boat cruises are the only transportation available to visitors. Day trips operate out of the small nearby town, Manapouri.
Other Popular Destinations in New Zealand
Auckland
A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone.
Queenstown
This beautiful resort town has a little something for everyone! Whether you are into skiing and snowboarding, jet boating, whitewater rafting, bungy jumping, or mountain biking there is no end to the year around adventure sports you can take advantage of. If you love wine, Queenstown lies close to the center of a small wine producing region, including The Two Paddocks vineyard which is owned by actor Sam Neill.