Suva is the capital of Fiji and a popular island destination in the South Pacific. Highlights of this tropical city include Fiji Museum, Thurston Park, Mount Korobaba, and Colo-I-Suva Forest Park.
Martinique is a lush island in the Caribbean's Lesser Antilles and replete with attractive beaches, tropical forests, and colonial architecture. An overseas département of France, this island destination is a popular stop on Caribbean cruises. The island is ideal for a variety of outdoor adventures, including snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking.
Nestled between Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, Moab is the perfect entryway to some of Utah’s most iconic scenery. Dotted with gorgeous sandstone formations, mesas, and buttes, Moab epitomizes the rugged beauty of the American Southwest.
Vis, a charming island city in Croatia's Dalmatian region, offers a serene retreat with its blend of historical allure and natural beauty. Known for its historical significance, Vis boasts remnants of its Greek and Roman past, including the well-preserved fortifications and ancient ruins. The city itself is a captivating blend of Venetian and Austro-Hungarian architecture, with quaint streets and lovely waterfronts that invite leisurely exploration.
Portofino, Italy, is a jewel on the Italian Riviera, famed for its colorful buildings, glamorous yachts, and charming harbor. This picturesque fishing village, with its pastel-colored houses that cascade down to the emerald-green waters, exudes a quaint yet luxurious atmosphere. The Piazzetta, the heart of Portofino, is a lively square where visitors can sip an espresso or enjoy fresh seafood while watching the elegant boats bobbing gently in the harbor.
Valparaíso, Chile, is a city that beckons travelers with its vibrant street art, steep hillsides, and bohemian spirit. Known as the "Jewel of the Pacific," Valparaíso's historical importance as a major port during the 19th century has left an indelible mark on its architecture and culture. The city's UNESCO-listed historic quarter is a labyrinth of colorful houses and cobblestone streets that seem to defy gravity as they cascade down to the Pacific Ocean (UNESCO). The iconic Ascensores (funiculars) that dot the city offer a unique way to explore these hills while providing stunning panoramic views.
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Valparaíso is its thriving arts scene. The city is essentially an open-air museum, with vibrant murals and street art adorning nearly every surface. A walk through Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción neighborhoods will reveal an ever-changing gallery of bold colors and creative expressions, with each piece telling a story of the city's past and present (Chile Travel). The art extends into the city's lively culture, with numerous galleries, cafes, and cultural centers where you can immerse yourself in the local creative energy.
Valparaíso is also deeply connected to the life and work of Chile's Nobel Prize-winning poet, Pablo Neruda. His house, La Sebastiana, perched high on a hill overlooking the bay, is now a museum dedicated to his legacy. Visitors can explore Neruda's eclectic collections and enjoy the same breathtaking views that inspired many of his writings (Fundación Pablo Neruda). This connection to Neruda adds a literary charm to the city's already rich cultural tapestry.
Fun Fact: Valparaíso hosts one of the most famous New Year's Eve celebrations in South America. The city's annual fireworks display, "Año Nuevo en el Mar," lights up the sky over the bay, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to witness this spectacular event (Valparaíso Tourism).