French Guiana, tucked between Brazil and Suriname on the northeast coast of South America, offers an unexpected blend of Amazonian wilderness, colonial intrigue, and French flair. As an overseas department of France, it uses the euro, speaks French, and has croissants alongside cassava bread at breakfast. Yet just beyond the cafés of Cayenne, vast rainforest stretches for hundreds of kilometers, home to rare wildlife, remote rivers, and Indigenous communities.

Fort William, located on the western edge of the Scottish Highlands, is often referred to as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” but there’s more here than rugged landscapes. Ben Nevis draws hikers from across the world, but visitors don’t need to climb to its summit to experience the scenery. Not far from town, Glen Nevis offers film fans a familiar view, scenes from *Braveheart*, *Harry Potter*, and *Highlander* were all filmed in this dramatic valley.

Hvar is a resort town and island off the coast of Croatia. A tourist destination with spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is popular for its beaches and is a favorite port for yacht cruises.

Halong Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. This natural wonder offers a variety of activities for visitors, including cruising, kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring extraordinary caves like the Sung Sot.

Glendalough, located in County Wicklow, is one of Ireland’s most historically significant and visually striking valleys. It’s best known for its early medieval monastic site, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. The round tower, cathedral ruins, and stone churches that remain today are surrounded by forests, lakes, and mountain trails, creating a setting that feels both ancient and untouched.