Tucked along the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, Benin offers a vibrant blend of traditions, rich history, and colorful daily life that surprises and delights travelers at every turn. The country is the birthplace of Vodun (commonly known as Voodoo), a spiritual tradition still practiced widely and celebrated each January 10th with processions, drums, and dance in the city of Ouidah.

Cameroon is often called “Africa in miniature” for good reason. Within its borders, travelers can explore coastal beaches, dense rainforests, vast savannas, active volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks, all without crossing a border. The country’s most iconic landmark, Mount Cameroon, is the highest mountain in West Africa and an active volcano that draws hikers from around the world.

Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is often described as one of the world’s smallest capitals, yet it brims with color and character. Located on Mahé Island, the city is both a cultural hub and a gateway to the surrounding beaches and mountains.

Mount Rainier National Park is centered on Mount Rainier, a massive glaciated volcano rising above the forests and valleys of Washington’s Cascade Range. The mountain dominates the surrounding landscape, with glaciers, snowfields, alpine meadows, old-growth forests, rivers, and waterfalls extending across the park. Its varied elevations create distinct environments, from dense lowland forest to open subalpine terrain and rugged alpine slopes.

Eight-mile-long island, where a variety of water sports is available. Stroll the bustling port area, where hundreds of stores sell goods ranging from Columbian emeralds to imported fine china and porcelain.