Death Valley, California, is a land of extremes that captures the imagination with its striking desert landscapes and surreal beauty. Located in the Mojave Desert, it is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States. Visitors are drawn to its iconic features, such as the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin, which at 282 feet below sea level, mark the lowest point in North America.

The Port of Stavanger is a popular stop on the route to the Norwegian Fjords, and boasts a first-rate assortment of museums and cultural events. Old Stavanger has Europe’s best preserved wooden house settlement.

Antigua, Guatemala's prized colonial monument, is just an hour from Guatemala City, and a pleasant alternative to staying in the capital. Good walking shoes are needed for its cobblestone streets. The most spectacular time to visit is Holy Week, when processions walk on handmade sawdust carpets with beautiful floral and geometric designs.

Montana, known as "Big Sky Country," offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. At the heart of Montana’s allure is Glacier National Park, a haven for nature lovers and hikers. Spanning over a million acres, the park features dramatic landscapes including glaciers, alpine lakes, and rugged mountains.

Vis, a charming island city in Croatia's Dalmatian region, offers a serene retreat with its blend of historical allure and natural beauty. Known for its historical significance, Vis boasts remnants of its Greek and Roman past, including the well-preserved fortifications and ancient ruins. The city itself is a captivating blend of Venetian and Austro-Hungarian architecture, with quaint streets and lovely waterfronts that invite leisurely exploration.