Nature is never far in Helsinki. Locals swim in the sea, walk forested trails, and gather mushrooms or berries all within city limits. One popular local habit is heading to the sauna, and the city offers several open-to-the-public options. Löyly, located on the waterfront, combines traditional wood-burning saunas with a sleek, modern design. In winter, visitors can even pair a sauna session with a quick dip through a hole cut in the ice for an experience both shocking and strangely calming.

Abuja is a planned, modern city and the proposed new federal capital of Nigeria. The site was chosen to replace the capital Lagos because of the central location, easy accessibility, good climate and land for further expansion.

Western Mexico state on the Pacific coast that is a major producer of avocados. Morelia serves as its capital city.

Cut length wise by the Turkish/Greek border, the island of Cyprus leads two lives. The Turkish side is traditional and Islamic, while the Greek side is a very modern vacation destination.

While an earthquake in 1972 left few buildings intact in downtown Managua, new areas are building up. Managua has excellent restaurants, nice hotels, and is a good base for day tours into the countryside.