A lesser-known river port in the Mekong Delta, Sa Dec was once the capital of Dong Thap province of southern Vietnam. Today, it is best known for its flower gardens and authentic bustling market. The city is also famous as the setting for French writer Marguerite Duras' 1984 novel, The Lover, and its 1991 film adaptation of the same name.
Lanzarote, the northernmost of the Canary Islands, is a striking destination characterized by its volcanic landscapes and unique architectural heritage. Known for its otherworldly scenery, the island boasts a remarkable volcanic terrain shaped by eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Timanfaya National Park is a highlight, where visitors can witness geothermal demonstrations and explore the dramatic lava fields on a guided tour.
Jūrmala, Latvia’s famed seaside resort, stretches along 33 kilometers of white sandy beaches kissed by the Baltic Sea. Its wooden architecture, featuring colorful villas from the early 20th century, tells the story of its history as a retreat for the well-to-do during the Russian Empire. Visitors strolling the Jomas Street promenade will find a lively atmosphere filled with cafes, boutiques, and galleries, alongside peaceful spots where the sea breeze encourages relaxation.
Dubuque sits along the Mississippi River in northeastern Iowa, where steep limestone bluffs rise above a broad river corridor. The city is Iowa’s oldest incorporated community and developed around river commerce, lead mining, manufacturing, and trade. Its historic downtown contains preserved brick buildings, churches, shops, restaurants, and the distinctive Town Clock, while the Port of Dubuque provides a more modern riverfront district.
Photo Credit: Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Gina Hamm on Unsplash
Astoria, Oregon is the state's oldest city. Located on the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean, Astoria is rich in history, including fishing, canning and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. With its scenic views and landscape, it has been called "little San Francisco."
The city's architecture tells its own story, with many well-preserved buildings from its 19th-century past. The Astoria Column, an iconic 125-foot-tall tower, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is adorned with a mural depicting scenes from the region's history. Climbing the 164 steps to the top provides an unforgettable view of the city, the Columbia River, and even the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Astoria serves as a gateway to diverse natural attractions. The Fort Stevens State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, a historic military fort, and access to expansive beaches perfect for a day of exploration or relaxation. The nearby Youngs River Falls provide a scenic and tranquil setting for a short hike to a picturesque waterfall.
A fun fact about Astoria is that it served as the filming location for the beloved 1985 film The Goonies, which has become a cultural touchstone for fans worldwide. The town celebrates its connection to the film with events and tours that appeal to movie buffs and families alike. Visit Astoria in the spring or summer to experience its festivals, mild weather, and vibrant community events, making it an ideal time to explore both its historical and natural attractions.
Other Popular Destinations in Oregon
Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, is a city where natural beauty and urban innovation coexist harmoniously. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and framed by volcanic mountains, Portland offers an array of outdoor adventures alongside its renowned cultural scene. Visitors can explore the lush expanses of Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., or take a leisurely stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden, which showcases exquisite traditional Japanese landscape design.
Newport
About halfway down the Oregon coast, the picturesque Yaquina Head Lighthouse welcomes you to Newport, a town known for its Dungeness crab and glorious harbor under the graceful Yaquina Bay Bridge. The historic Bayfront offers a mixture of shops, galleries, canneries and restaurants that serve fresh clam chowder, shrimp, oysters, crab and salmon.