Alberta, one of Canada’s western provinces, is renowned for its dramatic natural landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. It’s a place where sweeping prairies give way to towering peaks, and where Indigenous traditions and pioneer history are deeply interwoven.

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara is a hidden gem in northern Tanzania that offers an unforgettable safari experience. The lake is part of Lake Manyara National Park, which is known for its dramatic landscapes, from dense groundwater forests to grassy plains. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to explore this compact park, home to an impressive variety of animals, including elephants, hippos, and the famous tree-climbing lions.

Aizuwakamatsu in Fukushima Prefecture is a city where samurai history is tangible. Once a stronghold of the Aizu domain, it played a pivotal role in the late Edo period and the Boshin War.

Lithuania offers visitors a chance to explore a country where medieval traditions and modern culture meet. Vilnius, the capital, is known for its well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with winding streets, baroque churches, and cozy squares. Visitors can climb the hill to Gediminas’ Tower for a sweeping view of the city, or visit the Gates of Dawn, an important religious and historical monument that has welcomed travelers for centuries.

Lac Abbe, straddling the border between Djibouti and Ethiopia, is one of East Africa’s most otherworldly landscapes.