Who would have thought, back in the tumultuous coup and counter coup days of the 1970s, that Burkina Faso would become the cultural darling of West Africa? Unlikely as it seems, Burkina Faso has become the Utah of West Africa, hosting a biennial film festival that rivals the Sundance Film Festival for cultural clout. When it's not hosting film festivals, it's busy organizing its other biennial cultural festival.

Bikini Atoll, a remote ring of islands in the Marshall Islands, is one of the most sought-after wreck diving locations in the world. These underwater sites are preserved in a time capsule-like state, providing a rare look at history submerged in a silent world of coral and marine life.

A favorite for many cruise-goers and tourists, Ketchikan, Alaska, is a charming city located near the state’s southeastern edge.

Toiny is a quiet, scenic village located on the eastern coast of Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts), known for its unspoiled natural surroundings and authentic Caribbean charm. Unlike the more developed west coast beaches, Toiny offers a serene retreat where rolling hills meet the Atlantic Ocean, and dramatic cliffs frame the coastline.

Nuku Hiva, the largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, offers an unparalleled escape into Polynesian paradise. This rugged island is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, characterized by lush valleys, towering cliffs, and volcanic peaks.