Cruz Bay is the welcoming gateway to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where vibrant Caribbean life meets rich island history. Stepping off the ferry from nearby St. Thomas, visitors find themselves in a lively waterfront town filled with cafés, bars and boutiques that lead toward sandy streets and shimmering views of the bay. This small town is also home to the Cruz Bay Visitor Center, a helpful place to start planning outings into Virgin Islands National Park and to learn about the island.

Amarante, located in Portugal’s northern region of Tâmega e Sousa, sits quietly along the banks of the Tâmega River, framed by stone bridges, historic churches, and lush hills. The city is best known for its connection to São Gonçalo, a 13th-century monk whose name now graces the arched bridge and the grand convent-church that stands beside it.

Fortaleza, on Brazil’s northeastern Atlantic coast, greets visitors with wide sandy beaches that stretch for miles along warm, blue water. Beyond the city’s shoreline, dramatic dunes and inviting waters make Fortaleza an ideal base for exploring nearby beach towns like Cumbuco and Canoa Quebrada, each with its own rhythms and landscapes.

Plymouth is a town in southeastern Massachusetts, on Plymouth Bay, about 55 km (34 mi) southeast of Boston. The seat of Plymouth County, it was the site of the first permanent European settlement in New England; it is now a fishing and tourist center with ship-related industries and cranberry-packing houses.

Catalina Island, just 22 miles off the Southern California coast, offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Known for its crystal-clear waters and Mediterranean-like climate, Catalina is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike. Avalon, the island’s primary town, charms visitors with its colorful architecture, boutique shops, and vibrant waterfront.