Kirkenes sits at the far northeastern edge of Norway, just a few kilometers from the Russian border and not far from Finland. This Arctic town offers travelers a perspective they won’t find anywhere else in the country. With street signs in both Norwegian and Russian, and a local history shaped by war, trade, and shifting borders, Kirkenes has long stood at the crossroads of cultures.

Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, is a destination where skyscrapers meet the sea and mountains. Its dramatic skyline, best admired from Victoria Harbour or the Peak, reflects its role as a global financial hub.

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.

South Dakota, known for its striking contrasts, from sacred Indigenous landmarks to dramatic prairie landscapes, offers travelers a rare chance to experience stories etched in both stone and living tradition. Mount Rushmore may be the most photographed site, but just 17 miles away, the Crazy Horse Memorial tells a deeper story. In the west, the Black Hills are full of geological surprises and sacred sites. Custer State Park offers scenic drives where herds of bison often stop traffic.

Located southwest of India and Sri Lanka, this small yet dense island capital is the cultural center of the Maldives.