A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone.
Monkey Mia, located within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area on the western coast of Australia, is a serene paradise known for its world-famous wild dolphin encounters. This remote coastal gem, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, invites visitors to experience up-close interactions with bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. For over 50 years, these dolphins have made daily visits to Monkey Mia’s shores, creating a unique tradition that brings awe to travelers.
Pennsylvania offers more than just a glimpse into American history, it invites travelers to walk through it. In Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell still draws visitors from around the world, while Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed. Just a short walk away, modern museums like the National Constitution Center offer hands-on exhibits that connect the past to today’s civic questions.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is often called the “Pink City” for the terracotta-hued buildings that line its historic streets. Founded in 1727, it was one of India’s first planned cities, designed with wide avenues and grand public squares.
Chania, the jewel of western Crete, is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a captivating experience. Known for its Venetian harbor, Chania boasts a unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. The harbor's old lighthouse, built in the 16th century by the Venetians, stands as a timeless sentinel over the bustling waterfront, which is lined with colorful buildings, inviting cafes, and vibrant tavernas.
The Lemaire Channel is a spectacular sight with enormous sheer cliffs falling straight into the sea. It's a narrow channel flanked by the Antarctic Peninsula on one side and Booth Island on the other. So photogenic is the channel that it's nicknamed 'Kodak Gap', and it's only once you're well within it that a way through is visible. Unfortunately, ice can sometimes obscure the path and ships need to retreat and sail around Booth Island. At the northern end of Lemaire Channel are a pair of tall, rounded and often snow-capped peaks known as Una's Tits that are also popular with holiday snappers. The channel was first navigated by Belgian explorer de Gerlache during his 1898 expedition aboard Belgica, and, curiously, named it after the Belgian explorer Charles Lemaire, who explored parts of the Congo.