Padua, a hidden gem in Northern Italy’s Veneto region, is a city where medieval splendor meets a vibrant modern atmosphere. Known for its ancient university, founded in 1222, Padua is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world, having nurtured the minds of great scholars like Galileo Galilei.

Maloti-Drakensberg Park spans the mountainous borderlands of Lesotho and South Africa, forming a large protected landscape of high plateaus, steep cliffs, sandstone formations, grasslands, and river valleys. The Lesotho section is centered on Sehlabathebe National Park, while the South African portion includes uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. The area is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage property for both its natural and cultural importance.

Bijaipur is a small rural destination in Rajasthan, India, set within the Aravalli hills and surrounded by farmland and quiet village landscapes. It is best known for its historic fort, Castle Bijaipur, which has been adapted into a heritage stay.

Seward is a coastal city at the head of Resurrection Bay on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Mountains rise around the community, while its harbor opens toward the Gulf of Alaska. The city is an important gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and a center for commercial fishing, marine transportation, and outdoor recreation. Seward also marks the southern terminus of the historic Iditarod Trail.

Costa Rica is a country that has built its identity around both natural preservation and cultural vibrancy. Known for its stable democracy and emphasis on sustainability, it has become a global leader in eco-tourism.