Warm sands, cerulean waves, and stunning tropical views await you in Moorea, an island in French Polynesia. Unwind in an overwater bungalow, snorkel with tropical fish, or shop for pearls as you explore the remote beauty of this island destination.
Kos, an enchanting island in Greece’s Dodecanese archipelago, is a gem steeped in both history and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, Kos is home to the ancient Asclepeion, a healing temple where Hippocrates taught his students. Visitors can wander through the well-preserved ruins and enjoy sweeping views over the island and the Aegean Sea.
Santander, the capital of Spain’s Cantabria region, sits along the Bay of Biscay and offers travelers a mix of coastline, culture, and history shaped by centuries of maritime life. Once a bustling port for Castilian exports, Santander saw its golden age in the 19th century when Spanish royalty turned it into a summer retreat. The legacy of that era remains visible at the Palacio de la Magdalena, perched on a peninsula with views of the sea and home to royal stables, a mini zoo, and guided tours.
There's more than meets the eye in Savona, a Northwest Italy port city many cruise ship passengers are lucky enough to find themselves in. The giant Fortezza del Priamàr looms over the water, providing a unique welcome. Be sure to stroll through the city's genteel, impressive medieval center, visit the beautiful Savona Cathedral and see marvelous artistic works from centuries past at the Ceramics Museum.
Macedonia, officially known as North Macedonia, is a country where ancient history and vibrant culture meet in a striking landscape. The capital city, Skopje, showcases a blend of old and new with its Ottoman-era bazaars sitting alongside modern sculptures and bridges. Visitors can explore the stone bridge, a symbol of the city, and wander through the Old Bazaar, where traditional crafts and local flavors invite discovery.
Photo Credit: Photo by Vladimir Haltakov on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Bob Brewer on Unsplash
Sulphur-crested cockatoo
Photo Credit: Photo by Hongbin on Unsplash
Rainbow bee-eater
Photo Credit: Photo by Hongbin on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash
Dripstone Cliffs
Photo Credit: Photo by Kate McLean on Unsplash
Darwin, located on the Timor sea, was once an Australian frontier outpost, and is now the capital of the Northern Territory. This diverse destination, a truly distinct part of Australia, is the portal to the stunningly beautiful Kakadu National Park.
Tropical beaches, green space, wildlife, and dazzling sunsets all draw tourists to Darwin. Visitors should also discover the city's art museums, Mindil Beach's night markets and the local seafood. And did you know that this area of Australia has more crocodiles than anywhere on the planet? See saltwater crocs at Crocosaurus Cove, which boasts the world's largest display of these apex predators.
Other Popular Destinations in Australia
Sydney
Sydney, Australia, is a vibrant city where iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and natural beauty converge. The Sydney Opera House, with its striking sail-like design, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are symbols recognized around the world, yet the city offers much more beyond its famous skyline.
Cairns
Cairns is the majestic entrance to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This warm, tropical destination is located in Far North Queensland. Must-see attractions in Cairns include the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which educates tourists about indigenous peoples, and restaurant and bar-dotted Cairns Esplanade, which has a lagoon for swimming.