The South Sandwich Islands are among the most remote places on Earth, a chain of volcanic peaks rising from the Southern Ocean, over 1,300 kilometers southeast of South Georgia. With no permanent residents, no ports, and no infrastructure, these islands remain untouched by tourism in the conventional sense. What they offer instead is a rare glimpse into one of the planet’s most extreme and least disturbed environments.

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it offers an outsized variety of experiences, from colonial history to coastline escapes. Founded in 1636 by Roger Williams as a haven for religious freedom, the state still reflects its independent spirit. In Providence, travelers can visit the John Brown House Museum to explore the city’s role in early American commerce, or walk Benefit Street, lined with preserved 18th- and 19th-century homes.

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s premier tourist route, offering a breathtaking journey through some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. The route typically starts in Reykjavik and circles through Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. At Þingvellir, visitors can stand where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and explore the site of the world’s oldest parliament, established in 930 AD.

Jūrmala, Latvia’s famed seaside resort, stretches along 33 kilometers of white sandy beaches kissed by the Baltic Sea. Its wooden architecture, featuring colorful villas from the early 20th century, tells the story of its history as a retreat for the well-to-do during the Russian Empire. Visitors strolling the Jomas Street promenade will find a lively atmosphere filled with cafes, boutiques, and galleries, alongside peaceful spots where the sea breeze encourages relaxation.

Malta, a small island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers visitors a rich blend of history and vibrant local culture. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with grand Baroque architecture, narrow streets, and significant historical landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio. The city's fortifications tell stories of centuries of military importance, guarding one of Europe’s busiest harbors.