While an earthquake in 1972 left few buildings intact in downtown Managua, new areas are building up. Managua has excellent restaurants, nice hotels, and is a good base for day tours into the countryside.

Aberdare National Park is a 311 square mile sanctuary on an isolated volcanic massif which forms part of the eastern wall of the Rift Valley. Part of the larger forest reserve, the Aberdares are covered with a dense rainforest and provide spectacular views over the Rift Valley. Bird life is abundant with more than 200 species.

Turku, Finland’s oldest city, is a captivating blend of rich history and contemporary charm. Established in the early 13th century, Turku is renowned for its medieval architecture, including the majestic Turku Castle.

Curieuse Island, nestled in the Seychelles’ Indian Ocean, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich history. Located just off the coast of Praslin Island, this 2.9 square kilometer island is renowned for its protected marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Everglades National Park protects a vast subtropical wetland at the southern tip of Florida, where freshwater moves slowly through sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, hardwood hammocks, and coastal lagoons toward Florida Bay. Covering more than 1.5 million acres, it is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The park is part of a much larger ecosystem whose waters originate in central and southern Florida and eventually reach the Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay