Yasuní National Park lies in Ecuador’s Amazon region, between the Napo and Curaray rivers, and protects one of the country’s largest areas of lowland rainforest. The park contains dense tropical forest, rivers, lagoons, swamps, and seasonally flooded areas, creating a wide range of habitats. Its location near the equator and its varied terrain support exceptionally high biological diversity.
Fresno is a major city in California’s San Joaquin Valley, positioned between the Sierra Nevada and the Coast Ranges. Its flat agricultural surroundings are among the most productive farming areas in the United States, with orchards, vineyards, vegetable fields, and citrus groves extending beyond the urban area. Fresno also serves as a regional center for education, healthcare, business, and transportation.
Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan, set against the wooded slopes of the Margalla Hills in the north of the country. Planned as a purpose-built capital, the city is organized around broad avenues, landscaped sectors, parks, and green belts, giving it a different character from Pakistan’s older cities. The Faisal Mosque is its most recognizable landmark, with its tent-shaped design and prominent position beneath the hills.
Nosara, on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, is a laid-back coastal town known for its strong connection to wellness, nature, and surf culture. Unlike some of the country’s busier resorts, Nosara has kept development low-key, with no large beachfront hotels and a community that values sustainability.
Photo Credit: Photo by Alexander Shenkin on Unsplash
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects a remarkable volcanic landscape on Hawaii Island shaped by Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore lava fields, volcanic craters, native rainforest and dramatic terrain created by generations of eruptions. The park also preserves places of deep importance to Native Hawaiian culture and provides an exceptional view into the geological processes that continue to build the Hawaiian Islands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its landscape continues to evolve as volcanic activity reshapes the island.
Other Popular Destinations in Hawaii
Honolulu, Oahu
Honolulu, the capital of Hawaiʻi and the largest city in the Pacific, blends the energy of a major urban center with the deep roots of Native Hawaiian culture. Set on the island of Oʻahu, it’s home to iconic beaches, royal history, and a rhythm all its own. This sunny capital city is the main portal to the larger Hawaiian archipelago, and the perfect base for exploring Oahu.
Kona, Hawaii
Kona started as King Kamehameha I's government seat, and is now a popular tourist destination with key landmarks like Hulihee Palace, as well as coffee farms, shopping and dining.