Stretching along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Puntarenas offers more than just sandy shores. This historic port town once served as the country’s main gateway for coffee exports in the 19th century. Today, visitors can stroll along streets that echo stories of maritime trade and explore how Puntarenas helped shape Costa Rica's economic identity.
Lake Kariba is a large reservoir on the Zambezi River along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. On the Zimbabwean side, the lake stretches through a landscape of wooded hills, rocky shorelines, islands, and broad expanses of open water. The reservoir is closely connected with the town of Kariba, which developed around the hydroelectric project at the lake’s eastern end.
Lake Garda, Italy's largest and most captivating lake, is a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that makes it an irresistible destination for travelers. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush Mediterranean vegetation, Lake Garda's azure waters sparkle under the sun, creating an idyllic backdrop for exploration and relaxation.
Tofino is a small coastal community on the western edge of Vancouver Island, surrounded by Pacific Ocean waters, forested mountains, islands, and temperate rainforest. It sits within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. Once known primarily for fishing and logging, Tofino has developed into a community closely associated with surfing, marine activities, outdoor recreation, and environmental stewardship.
Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. Its well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites visitors to stroll through cobblestone streets lined with Renaissance courtyards and Baroque façades. At the heart of the city is the Schlossberg, a forested hill crowned by the iconic clock tower, Uhrturm.
Located roughly in the center of the country, Riobamba is one of Ecuador's largest cities and the starting point of the scenic train ride to Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose). The city has a strong indigenous presence, which lends itself well to the open-air artisan market, and plenty of opportunities for mountainous activities such as hiking and mountain biking.
Other Popular Destinations in Ecuador
Galapagos Islands
Off the coast of Ecuador, the iconic and biodiverse Galápagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin’s nineteenth-century research expeditions on HMS Beagle, beckon you. This glittering archipelago, surrounded by vivid turquoise waves, abounds with stunning beaches and spectacular wildlife, perfect for the adventurous traveler.
Guayaquil
Guayaquil, Ecuador, is a vibrant port city and a frequent starting point for cruises to the Galapagos Islands.