Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is a hidden gem that often surprises travelers with its rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Designed by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin, Canberra is a city thoughtfully crafted around Lake Burley Griffin, which offers picturesque views and serene walks. Unlike many cities, it is home to a vast population of kangaroos, which are often spotted hopping around suburban areas and parklands.

Fiordland National Park, located on the southwestern tip of New Zealand's South Island, is a breathtaking wilderness that captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes of towering fjords, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Established in 1952, Fiordland is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its stunning natural beauty and unique biodiversity.

British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.

Known as "The City with Soul," Jackson is a popular hub for a variety of music genres, including jazz, gospel, and blues music. Highlights include the Jackson Zoo, the Mississippi Museum of Art, and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.

Alice Springs is the main focus on the Centre, the red outback country of central Australia. It is the northern Terminus of the Central Australian Railway and a jumping-off point for the exploration of central Australia.