New Jersey often surprises first-time visitors. It’s not just the gateway to New York or Philadelphia but a destination in its own right with deep Revolutionary War history, beach towns full of character, and some of the most diverse food offerings on the East Coast. Cities like Trenton and Morristown still carry the echoes of pivotal battles, while monuments and preserved buildings tell stories of George Washington’s winter encampments and early American resilience.

Natural wonders await you in the steaming, geothermally active North Island city of Rotorua, New Zealand. Pohutu Geyser erupts several times per day, and blistering mud pools provide a truly unique sightseeing experience. When in Rotorua, tourists also visit its living Maori village, as well as Te Puia (New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute), where weaving and woodcarving is featured.

Cusco once served as the heart of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still shapes every corner of the city even as it serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Outside the historic center, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán overlook the city from a nearby hilltop. This ceremonial complex is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. During the Inti Raymi festival in June, thousands gather here to reenact ancient Andean rituals.

Welcome to Ittoqqortoormiit, where the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape meets a rich Inuit heritage. Located at the edge of the Scoresby Sound fjord system, this remote town offers a rare glimpse into life above the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 350 residents, Ittoqqortoormiit is a haven for those seeking solitude and adventure. Visit the Scoresby Sound to marvel at its spectacular fjords and towering cliffs, a natural wonder that’s a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Rábida Island is one of the most visually striking islands in the Galápagos, known for its deep red volcanic shoreline and quiet, unspoiled atmosphere. Located near the center of the archipelago, the island is geologically young, with iron-rich lava giving its beaches a dramatic rust-colored hue.