San Pedro de Atacama, a small town in northern Chile, sits at over 2,400 meters above sea level in one of the most geologically diverse areas on Earth. Surrounded by volcanoes, salt flats, geysers, and ancient lava flows, it has long served as a gateway to the Atacama Desert. This desert is the driest non-polar place in the world, where some weather stations have never recorded rainfall.

Located in northwest England, Birmingham has a tremendous history as an industrial city. Close to coal and iron ore supplies, it was here that Bouton and Watt harnessed steam power to run machinery. The Museum of Science and Industry resides here and provides an excellent look at England's history.

On coastal Iceland, the globe's northernmost capital, Reykjavík, invites visitors to discover its unique charms. Iceland is rife with natural wonders: geysers, geothermic spas, waterfalls and the spectacular Northern Lights. Reykjavik, dating back to 870 AD, offers world-class museums, restaurants, shopping and nightlife.

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.

Cheltenham is a Regency-era spa town in Gloucestershire known for its elegant streets, welcoming squares and an inviting pace of life that has drawn visitors since the 1700s. The town pulses with festivals through the year, giving travelers reason to return again and again. Cheltenham Literature Festival, the longest-running festival of its kind in the world, brings writers and readers together each autumn for talks, readings and book signings that span many genres.