Egypt is a land of timeless wonders, where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. The Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Temple of Karnak are just a few of the awe-inspiring monuments that attract millions of tourists each year.
Taupō, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is built along the shores of Lake Taupō, which is the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, formed nearly two thousand years ago by a massive volcanic eruption. That eruption was so powerful, it was recorded in ancient Chinese and Roman texts, even though it occurred halfway across the world. Today, the lake is calm, clear, and central to life in the region, offering everything from trout fishing to kayaking and lakeside cycling.
Konya has served as a spiritual center for centuries. Every December, the Şeb‑i Arûs festival marks the passing of Rumi, the Persian mystic, and draws Sufis and visitors from around the world to witness the Sema. Whirling dervish dance is performed to the sound of ney flutes and drums. In one of the country's most hushed and vivid traditions, performers spin in unison in flowing white skirts, a scene that blends meditation with graceful motion in a way found nowhere else.
In ancient times, Kaanapali was a royal retreat for the rulers of Maui, who delighted in the perfect three-mile stretch of white sand beach, the gentle waves, warm sunny days and the majestic West Maui Mountains. Maui royalty surfed, raced their outrigger canoes, feasted at luaus that lasted for weeks, and where the Kaanapali Golf Course now blankets the land, they played ulu maika, a form of lawn bowling with heavy lava balls.
Ullapool is a village in the Scottish Highlands about 65 miles north-west of Inverness. Ullapool is known for the progressive, ecologically sound practices of its inhabitants and is the center for the Highland Environment Centre; a project of the Highland Eco Trust.