Mauritania, stretching between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sahara Desert, offers travelers a journey through wide-open landscapes and centuries of history. Its terrain is marked by shifting sand dunes, ancient caravan towns, and stretches of untouched coastline.
Elvas rises from the Alentejo plains near the Spanish border as one of Portugal’s most striking fortified towns, shaped by centuries of defense, resilience, and daily life along the frontier. Encircled by an immense network of walls, bastions, and hilltop forts, the town tells a clear story of strategy and survival, from the sweeping views at Forte da Graça to the quiet streets within the historic center.
Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.
Port Moresby sits by the Coral Sea as Papua New Guinea’s capital and shows visitors a city of contrasts where glittering new buildings rise beside traditional villages built on stilts. One such place is Hanuabada, the original Motuan village, where roofs reach above water’s edge and everyday life still unfolds in Tok Pisin and local tongue.
Watamu, located on Kenya’s picturesque coast, is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Watamu is part of the Watamu Marine National Park, a protected area known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. The park is a haven for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
Abel Tasman National Park, located at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Renowned for its golden beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters, the park offers an array of activities, from hiking to kayaking. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, stretches over 60 kilometers and provides breathtaking views of the coastline, making it a must-do for visitors.
The park's unique combination of pristine beaches and native bush creates a haven for wildlife, including the little blue penguin and the New Zealand fur seal. Kayaking along the coast offers the chance to explore secluded coves and spot marine life up close. For those interested in history, the park is named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, the first European to sight New Zealand in 1642.
Fun fact: Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest national park in New Zealand, yet it boasts some of the most stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems in the country, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand.