The Whitsunday Islands sit in the heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, where more than 70 islands rise from wide blue seas and offer an invitation to explore. Whitsunday Island itself is the largest of this group, known internationally for its ribbon of white silica sand stretching over seven kilometers at Whitehaven Beach. This sand feels cool underfoot even in warm sunshine because it’s made of nearly pure silica carried there by ancient ocean currents.

ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled).

Desroches Island, a serene oasis in the Seychelles, offers an unparalleled escape into tropical luxury. Located 230 kilometers southwest of Mahé, this private island is famed for its pristine beaches, lush coconut palms, and crystal-clear waters. Desroches is the largest island in the Amirantes group and is celebrated for its untouched beauty and exclusive ambiance.

Wertheim is an enchanting town on the banks of the Main River in Germany. A favorite stop on European river cruises, highlights of this charming destination include the Wertheim Castle and the town center, where you can wind your way down cobblestone streets replete with 16th century architecture. Venture outside of town and follow the Tauber River to Kloster Bronnbach, an immense and ornate monastery dating back to the 12th century.

Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, is one of the country’s oldest protected areas and holds deep historical importance in conservation.