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.

Stretching across central Oman, the Wahiba Sands offer a dramatic desert landscape of rolling dunes that shift in color with the changing light. This vast sea of sand is home to towering ridges and open plains, creating an otherworldly backdrop for exploration.

Rarotonga, the vibrant heart of the Cook Islands, offers visitors a chance to experience island life with striking scenery and rich tradition. This volcanic island is only 32 kilometers around, making it easy to explore by scooter or bicycle in a single day. From the lush mountains of the interior to the lagoon that wraps around the coast, Rarotonga feels intimate but never short on discovery.

Nestled high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra is a hidden gem that beckons nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts alike. This tiny principality, known for its dramatic mountainous landscapes, offers world-class skiing at resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord, making it a winter sports haven. In the warmer months, hiking trails open up, providing access to pristine valleys, glacial lakes, and panoramic vistas that seem to stretch forever.

Nestled on the southern tip of California's Baja Peninsula, there's a feeling of peace on Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Find your own private sand dune and bask in the sun. Walk along the famous Playa del Amor or explore Cabo's unique rock formations that are found in almost every cove. For a special treat, stop and watch artists create black coral jewelry.