Farther from a continental landfall than any other group of islands on earth, the twelve Marquesas jut out of the open Pacific just south of the equator, shrouded in a constant cloud cover.

Kobe, Japan is a beautiful port city renowned for its historic shrines, botanical gardens, hot springs, and marbled Kobe beef. Highlights of this Japanese retreat include Ikuta Shrine, thought to be one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Botanical Gardens, Mount Rokkō, and Arima Onsen, a popular hot springs resort surrounded by Japanese maple trees.

Šiauliai, often referred to as the "City of the Sun" due to its high number of sunny days, is a vibrant gem in northern Lithuania. The city's most iconic landmark is the Hill of Crosses, a profound site of pilgrimage adorned with thousands of crosses placed by visitors over the decades. This unique and moving monument, which has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance, symbolizes the resilience and spirit of the Lithuanian people.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of the most biodiverse and awe-inspiring ecosystems on the planet. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perhaps best known for being home to nearly half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through the dense foliage of this ancient rainforest to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a life-changing experience for many travelers.

Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, offers a unique blend of Scandinavian charm and rugged natural beauty. Nestled between dramatic fjords and windswept landscapes, Tórshavn is one of the smallest and most picturesque capitals in the world. Visitors can start their exploration in the historic Tinganes area, the cradle of Faroese civilization.