Ankara, the capital of Turkey, sits on the Anatolian plateau and reflects the country’s layered history more quietly than Istanbul, yet with equal depth. Once an important settlement for the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans, and Byzantines, Ankara rose to national prominence in the 20th century when Mustafa Kemal Atatürk chose it as the heart of the modern Turkish Republic. Today, it functions as Turkey’s political center while preserving traces of its ancient and Ottoman past.
Vancouver is a city in southwestern Washington located along the north bank of the Columbia River, directly across from Portland, Oregon. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the Pacific Northwest and serves as the county seat of Clark County.
Remich, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Moselle,” is a captivating town nestled along the Moselle River in Luxembourg. This riverside gem is known for its historic vineyards that have shaped the region’s culture for centuries. Visitors can stroll along the river promenade, enjoying views of the gently flowing water framed by rolling hills covered in vineyards that produce some of Luxembourg’s finest wines.
Geelong, located on the southwestern shore of Port Phillip Bay in Victoria, Australia, is a vibrant regional city with a rich maritime and industrial heritage. Once a hub for wool export and manufacturing, Geelong has transformed into a center for arts, culture, and tourism while retaining its historical charm.
Hambantota is a coastal city in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, set along a dry, sunlit stretch of the island’s southeastern coast. Its landscape combines the Indian Ocean, salt pans, scrubland, lagoons, and agricultural areas, giving the city a different character from the wetter coastal towns farther west. Hambantota is an important regional center and a gateway to several major wildlife destinations.
Soft morning colors reflect across the peaceful wetlands of Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu National Park.
Lotus lilies and lush grasses cover the seasonal wetlands of Yellow Water Billabong.
Photo Credit: Bonez71
A colorful sunset is reflected in the still waters of Yellow Water Billabong.
Photo Credit: Reesa sc
A crocodile moves quietly through the open waters of Yellow Water Billabong.
Photo Credit: Reesa sc
Discover Yellow Water Billabong, known traditionally as Ngurrungurrudjba, a celebrated wetland near Cooinda in Kakadu National Park. Connected to Jim Jim Creek and the South Alligator River floodplain, its scenery transforms with Kakadu’s seasons, expanding across the surrounding plains after summer rains and concentrating wildlife around its waterways during the dry months. Cruises and seasonal walking areas offer views of waterlilies, paperbarks and pandanus, along with saltwater crocodiles and abundant birdlife such as magpie geese, egrets and sea eagles. At sunrise and sunset, glowing skies and reflections reveal one of Kakadu’s most memorable natural and cultural landscapes.
Other Popular Destinations in Australia
Sydney
Sydney, Australia, is a vibrant city where iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and natural beauty converge. The Sydney Opera House, with its striking sail-like design, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are symbols recognized around the world, yet the city offers much more beyond its famous skyline.
Cairns
Cairns is the majestic entrance to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This warm, tropical destination is located in Far North Queensland. Must-see attractions in Cairns include the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which educates tourists about indigenous peoples, and restaurant and bar-dotted Cairns Esplanade, which has a lagoon for swimming.