Palau, a Pacific island nation made up of over 500 islands, offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers who want to discover something both ancient and alive. Located between the Philippines and Guam, this small country is known for its otherworldly seascapes, but its appeal runs far deeper than its turquoise waters.

Monument Valley, a majestic expanse on the Arizona-Utah border, is one of the most iconic landscapes of the American Southwest. Renowned for its towering red sandstone buttes and mesas that rise dramatically from the desert floor, this breathtaking site evokes the spirit of the Old West. Often depicted in classic Western films, the valley is best experienced along the 17-mile scenic drive that winds through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, offering close-up views of famed formations like the

Khasab stands at the edge of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, where rocky inlets carve into the land like desert fjords and earning it the nickname "Norway of Arabia." A short dhow ride uncovers soaring cliffs and narrow waterways, often mirrored by pods of dolphins gliding beside the wooden vessel. These traditional dhows, used for centuries by traders, now carry visitors into those coastal arms for snorkeling, swimming, and quiet reflection.

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.

In Cyprus, travelers are immersed in a culture that draws on Europe, the Middle East, and 9000 years of constant invasion. Crusader castles rub shoulders with ancient vineyards, frescoed monasteries overlook citrus orchards, and sandy, sun-soaked feet tread Roman mosaic floors.