A medieval little town high above the sea with narrow winding streets, little squares and flower-decked courtyards.

Manarola, one of the most picturesque villages in Italy’s famed Cinque Terre, is a haven for travelers seeking a blend of breathtaking scenery, vibrant local culture, and authentic Italian charm. Perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Ligurian Sea, the village is known for its iconic pastel-colored houses cascading down the hillside.

Albion, a small coastal town on the west coast of Mauritius, is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic setting by the Indian Ocean. Unlike some of the island’s more crowded resort areas, Albion offers a quieter escape while still showcasing the natural beauty that makes Mauritius a favorite destination.

Lake Ndutu is a shallow seasonal soda lake in northern Tanzania, within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area near the southern edge of the Serengeti ecosystem. The lake sits among open short-grass plains, acacia woodland, and other seasonal wetlands, creating a varied landscape for wildlife. Although relatively small, Lake Ndutu is part of a much larger ecological area where the plains of the southern Serengeti meet the Ngorongoro highlands.

Tonga is distinctly different to its neighboring island nations. This Polynesian kingdom, made up of 170 islands, carries a proud history that dates back over 3,000 years. On the main island of Tongatapu, travelers can explore ancient stone structures like the Haʻamonga ʻa Maui Trilithon—sometimes called the Stonehenge of the Pacific. Royal tombs in Lapaha offer a glimpse into the lineage of Tonga’s kings, while village life remains guided by customs that have changed little over centuries.