Mikumi National Park, located in Tanzania's southern highlands, offers a pristine and relatively undiscovered safari experience. Spanning over 3,230 square kilometers, Mikumi is part of the larger Selous Ecosystem, providing a diverse range of habitats from open grasslands to dense miombo woodlands. This park is an excellent choice for those seeking a more tranquil alternative to the more frequented Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Chiang Rai, nestled in northern Thailand, is a gem of cultural and architectural wonder. At the heart of its allure is the White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, a striking modern Buddhist temple designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. This surreal structure features intricate white designs and mirrored mosaics that shimmer under the Thai sun, creating a fantastical effect.
Dotted with lighthouses along its shoreline, Portland, Maine is a coastal gem in the northeastern United States and a veritable paradise for lovers of fresh seafood, craft breweries, and small-town charm. At the center of downtown Portland, the Old Port neighborhood boasts a number of unique and historical buildings, trendy restaurants and bars, and picturesque views of the Portland Harbor.
Kamloops, British Columbia is a scenic city on the banks of the Thompson River, across from the Kamloops Indian Reserve. This Canadian gem, located northeast of Vancouver, B.C., was once an important trading post for the Hudson's Bay Company and an integral stop on the Canadian Pacific Railway during the Cariboo Gold Rush.