Dakhla is a coastal city in Morocco’s far southwest, situated on a narrow peninsula that extends into a large Atlantic lagoon. Its setting creates a striking contrast between the dry desert landscape inland and the sheltered blue waters along the coast. Dakhla is an important regional centre for fishing, commerce, and transport, while its lagoon has made the city increasingly known for water sports.
Nürnberg (Nuremberg), located in the heart of Bavaria, Germany, is a city rich in history, culture, and architectural charm. Known for its medieval old town, Nürnberg boasts cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and the imposing Nuremberg Castle, which overlooks the city and offers panoramic views.
Lake Maggiore, straddling the border of northern Italy and southern Switzerland, is the second-largest lake in Italy and one of the most scenically diverse. Surrounded by Alpine peaks and dotted with elegant towns, the lake has attracted visitors for centuries, including literary figures like Stendhal and Ernest Hemingway. The western shore is home to the Borromean Islands, a group of three small islands known for palaces, terraced gardens, and white peacocks that roam freely across the lawns.
Misool is one of the four major islands of Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua, Indonesia, lying southwest of the larger island of New Guinea. The island is surrounded by a network of smaller islands, reefs, limestone formations, and sheltered bays. Much of its landscape remains lightly developed, with dense forest covering the interior and clear waters extending along the coast.
This mountainous archipelago offers magnificent views of stark white glaciers and snowfields, which cover a vast stretch of the region. Arctic flora and fauna fascinate; catch a glimpse of polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, and walruses amongst the mossy tundra and icy coasts. In the summer, visitors will witness the rare splendor of Svalbard’s midnight sun.
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.