Córdoba, located in the heart of Andalusia, was once the most advanced city in Western Europe. During the 10th century, it served as the capital of Al-Andalus and was a center for learning, science, and art. Today, visitors walk the same streets that philosophers, poets, and physicians once crossed. The city’s most famous landmark, the Mezquita-Catedral, reflects its layered past. The red and white horseshoe arches inside are one of the most photographed interiors in Spain.

Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, rests along the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez in northern Sonora, Mexico. Along its shoreline, Sandy Beach draws visitors with long stretches of walkable sand and calm water, while Playa Hermosa and Playa Mirador offer quieter spots where tide pools appear as the sea pulls back. Boat rides to Bird Island, also known as Isla San Jorge, provide a rare chance to see large colonies of sea lions resting on rocky ledges.

Acadia National Park in Maine is home to the highest point on the United States’ East Coast. The bay side town of Bar Harbor, with its restaurants and shops, is a popular gateway to this 47,000-acre national park filled with dramatic, breathtaking scenery.

Ottawa, the charming capital of Canada, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Nestled along the scenic Ottawa River, the city is home to the iconic Parliament Hill, where the Gothic Revival architecture of the Parliament Buildings stands majestically above the riverbanks. Visitors can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard in the summer or explore the Peace Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Oranjestad, Aruba’s colorful capital, blends Dutch colonial charm with the island’s easygoing Caribbean character. The city’s pastel-painted buildings, adorned with gables and decorative facades, recall its Dutch heritage while housing modern boutiques, cafés, and museums.