British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.

Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, carries over 8,000 years of history layered into its streets. The Roman Theater, still in use today, was discovered by accident in the 1970s and now hosts operas and concerts overlooking the Rhodope Mountains. Nearby, visitors can walk the remains of a Roman stadium buried beneath the main pedestrian street, where modern shops and cafés stand above ancient foundations.

St Kilda is a remote volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, far west of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. The group consists of Hirta, Dun, Soay, and Boreray, along with numerous sea stacks and smaller formations. Hirta is the largest island and contains the remains of the former settlement around Village Bay. No permanent civilian population lives on St Kilda today, although conservation workers, researchers, and Ministry of Defence personnel occupy Hirta at various times.

Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is known for its lush landscapes, winding rivers, and rich Buddhist culture. The Mekong River flows along much of the country’s western border, offering both vital transportation routes and scenic vistas. Rolling hills, dense forests, and limestone karsts provide opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring remote villages.

New Zealand is a land of breathtaking landscapes and memorable cultural experiences. Located in the South Pacific, this island nation is famed for its dramatic mountain ranges, pristine beaches, and rolling farmlands. With its beauty, welcoming culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, New Zealand is sure to captivate travelers from around the globe.