Taiwan is an island in East Asia. In addition to the island of Taiwan, the country includes the P'eng-hu Islands (Pescadores), the small Chinmen (Quemoy) Islands off the mainland city of Xiamen (Amoy), and the Matsu group off Fuzhou (Foochow). The capital and largest city of Taiwan is T'aipei.
One of Cape Verde’s most vibrant islands, Sao Vicente is full of beautiful coastal scenery. It is also a gateway to other islands in the Cape Verde archipelago.
Patmos, a gem in the Aegean Sea, is steeped in history and spirituality, offering a serene escape for travelers seeking both tranquility and rich cultural experiences. Known as the "Island of the Apocalypse," Patmos is famously where Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation. Visitors can explore the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the saint is said to have received his visions.
Say "Aloha!" to the big city on Oahu's South Shore: Honolulu. This sunny capital city is the main portal to the larger Hawaiian archipelago, and the perfect base for exploring Oahu.
Basel is the global center of the pharmaceutical industry, but most travelers visit for the world-famous ART Basel festival, as well as the numerous art galleries, iconic architecture and museums.
Thingvellir, a captivating site in Iceland, seamlessly combines natural beauty and historical significance. Located in the Thingvellir National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a geological wonder where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The dramatic landscape features rift valleys and stunning volcanic formations, making it a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park is also home to Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake, which offers serene views and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
Historically, Thingvellir holds great importance as the site of Iceland's first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. This ancient assembly was a significant center for Icelandic democracy and lawmaking, where chieftains gathered annually to settle disputes and create laws. Visitors can explore the ruins of the original site and learn about Iceland’s early governance at the Thingvellir Visitor Centre.
A visit to Thingvellir offers a unique blend of natural splendor and historical intrigue. The park is part of the Golden Circle route, which includes other iconic Icelandic sites such as Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall. In addition to its historical and geological attractions, Thingvellir is a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights during winter months. The park’s low light pollution and expansive views make it an ideal spot for this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Fun fact: Thingvellir is one of the few places in the world where you can literally walk between two tectonic plates. The Silfra fissure within the park offers a unique snorkeling experience where you can swim between these two plates, immersing yourself in crystal-clear glacial water.