Raglan, on New Zealand’s North Island, is a coastal town that has earned international renown for its surf culture while retaining a bohemian, community-centered spirit.

Rarotonga, the vibrant heart of the Cook Islands, offers visitors a chance to experience island life with striking scenery and rich tradition. This volcanic island is only 32 kilometers around, making it easy to explore by scooter or bicycle in a single day. From the lush mountains of the interior to the lagoon that wraps around the coast, Rarotonga feels intimate but never short on discovery.

Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, is the country’s premier destination for both relaxation and adventure. Just off its shores lies the Belize Barrier Reef, offering some of the world’s most spectacular snorkeling and diving.

Basse-Terre, the western half of Guadeloupe, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Dominated by the towering La Soufrière volcano, the island boasts lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and black sand beaches.

Sintra, located just 40 minutes from Lisbon, feels like a world apart. Tucked into the hills of the Serra de Sintra, this town has drawn kings, poets, and explorers for centuries. It was once the summer retreat of Portuguese royalty, who left behind palaces and gardens that seem pulled from a storybook. The most famous, Palácio da Pena, is perched high above the town with bold red and yellow towers that blend Romanticism with Moorish and Gothic styles.