North Seymour Island, located just north of Baltra in Ecuador’s Galápagos archipelago, is a compact but biologically rich destination known for its wildlife encounters. Though small in size, this flat, arid island punches far above its weight when it comes to natural spectacle, offering a rare chance to observe iconic species in a remarkably close setting.
Saint-Malo, a captivating walled city on the coast of Brittany, France, invites visitors to step back in time while embracing the beauty of the rugged coastline. Known for its rich maritime history, this former pirate stronghold has retained its medieval charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, towering granite walls, and fortifications that echo tales of seafaring adventures.
Tulum, a jewel of the Riviera Maya, is a blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and pristine natural beauty. Perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, the Tulum Ruins stand as one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya civilization. The well-preserved El Castillo, Temple of the Frescoes, and Temple of the Descending God offer insight into the architectural prowess and spiritual life of the ancient Maya.
Tucked away in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Nauru is one of the world’s smallest and least visited countries being an island nation just 21 square kilometers in size, with a population under 10,000. But its compact size makes exploring simple and rewarding. Visitors can circle the entire island by car in under an hour, taking in stunning ocean views, remnants of World War II bunkers, and clusters of colorful homes that speak to Nauru's resilient spirit and layered past.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, Montepulciano is a quintessential Italian hill town that offers visitors a perfect blend of Renaissance architecture, fine wine, and stunning vistas. Famous for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, this town is a paradise for wine lovers. Touring local vineyards, such as Cantina Contucci, and sampling the region’s prestigious red wines is an experience that transports you into the heart of Tuscany’s wine heritage.
Flagstaff, Arizona, is a mountain town that perfectly blends the charm of a small community with the excitement of outdoor adventure and rich cultural experiences. Nestled at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff serves as a gateway to some of the Southwest's most iconic landscapes, including the Grand Canyon, which is just a short drive away. The town itself is surrounded by the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world, offering an abundance of hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities.
Flagstaff's historic downtown is a vibrant area filled with boutique shops, local breweries, and restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. Visitors can explore the Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was famously discovered in 1930, or delve into the region's history at the Museum of Northern Arizona, which showcases Native American artifacts and exhibits on local geology and ecology. The town's lively arts scene is highlighted by events such as the Flagstaff Art in the Park festival, which attracts artists and visitors from all over the region.
One of Flagstaff's most enticing aspects is its access to diverse natural wonders. In addition to the Grand Canyon, visitors can explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and the ancient cliff dwellings at Walnut Canyon National Monument. The area's dark skies also make Flagstaff one of the best places in the country for stargazing, with the city being recognized as the world's first International Dark Sky City.
A fun fact about Flagstaff is that it's one of the highest-elevation cities in the United States, sitting at approximately 7,000 feet above sea level. This elevation gives Flagstaff a unique climate compared to the rest of Arizona, with cooler summers and the occasional winter snowfall, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers seeking a refreshing escape.