Cambridge, Massachusetts, sits across the Charles River from Boston and is known for its universities, historic neighborhoods, research institutions, and distinctive network of public squares. Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology give the city an international academic profile, while areas such as Harvard Square, Central Square, Kendall Square, and Inman Square each have their own mix of shops, restaurants, cultural venues, and businesses.
The biggest volcano in Europe - and still very active. Drive up to the 6,000 foot level, travel along roads that run over layers of hardened lava, created in ancient and modern times. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Tyrrhenian and lonian coasts.
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.
Ponte de Lima sits along the Lima River in northern Portugal and is often regarded as the country’s oldest town. Its identity centers on the medieval bridge that spans the river, parts of which date back to Roman times and still structure how the town is experienced today.
Photo Credit: Image by LaRae Thornton from Pixabay
Kicker Rock
Photo Credit: Photo by Nicolas Martin on Unsplash
Iguanas
Photo Credit: Photo by James Gildart on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by kuhnmi on Wikimedia
Galapagos Oystercatchers
Photo Credit: Photo by kuhnmi on Wikimedia
Great Blue Heron
Photo Credit: Photo by kuhnmi from Wikimedia
Geologically, San Cristobal Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galápagos archipelago. It is home to the only source of fresh water in the islands, a small lake called Laguna El Junco. The lake hosts a large population of birdlife, as does the rest of the island. Other animal inhabitants include sea lions, tortoises, marine iguanas, dolphins, lobsters and more. One of San Cristobal Island's most popular visitor sites is Cerro Brujo, with its expansive white sand beach and a lagoon that locals once used as a salt mine but now offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Another must-see is Kicker Rock, a fascinating rock formation that looks like a boot from one angle (hence its English name) and like a sleeping lion from another (thus its Spanish name, Roca León Dormido).
Other Popular Destinations in Ecuador
Quito
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is the beating heart of the Galápagos and is home to the largest town in the archipelago, Puerto Ayora, and a key access point for travelers exploring this unique region. But beyond its small port and shops, the island reveals a surprising range of ecosystems, from black lava shores to lush highlands where giant tortoises roam freely.