British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.

Sandakan, on the northeast coast of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, is a city where history, wildlife, and culture come together. Once a major trading port known as “Little Hong Kong” for its bustling connections to the wider world, Sandakan has retained its multicultural character, with influences from Chinese, Malay, and Indigenous communities visible in its temples, markets, and cuisine.

Stretching along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Puntarenas offers more than just sandy shores. This historic port town once served as the country’s main gateway for coffee exports in the 19th century. Today, visitors can stroll along streets that echo stories of maritime trade and explore how Puntarenas helped shape Costa Rica's economic identity.

Bornholm, a picturesque Danish island in the Baltic Sea, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Renowned for its rugged coastline and charming villages, Bornholm is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The island's northern coast is particularly famous for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters, perfect for hiking and cycling.

Our mountains are high with lush forest and pristine alpine lakes hidden from the too casual viewer. Wildlife abound along the rippling streams that feed the wild waters of the Wenatchee River, finally merging with the mighty Columbia. King salmon fighting to return to their birthplace can be viewed from the Rocky Reach Dam. Nature is at its unspoiled best