Dotted with lighthouses along its shoreline, Portland, Maine is a coastal gem in the northeastern United States and a veritable paradise for lovers of fresh seafood, craft breweries, and small-town charm. At the center of downtown Portland, the Old Port neighborhood boasts a number of unique and historical buildings, trendy restaurants and bars, and picturesque views of the Portland Harbor.
Malta’s ornate and vibrant capital, Valletta, dazzles travelers with its abundance of historical landmarks and striking architecture. This island jewel off the coast of Italy remains a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises. From central St. George’s Square, to sixteenth-century Casa Rocca Piccola, to the Siege Bell War Memorial, Valletta has no shortage of monuments detailing the city’s long history.
Luanda, the vibrant capital of Angola, is the country's largest city and primary economic hub, known for its bustling energy and rich cultural scene. Modern Luanda is characterized by its dynamic growth and development. The city boasts an impressive skyline, including the Avenida 4 de Fevereiro, a major thoroughfare lined with modern high-rises and vibrant markets. The Baía de Luanda, a stunning bay area, offers beautiful waterfront promenades and opportunities for relaxation and leisure.
On Cook Strait sits Wellington, New Zealand's charming windy city. Must-sees here include the waterfront, the lovely beaches, and the Wellington Cable Car that takes riders to botanical gardens. For cultural exposure, visit The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, with its Maori national treasures and art gallery. Wellington Zoo is another key attraction, and features Tahi, a one-legged kiwi, as its mascot.
Farther from a continental landfall than any other group of islands on earth, the twelve Marquesas jut out of the open Pacific just south of the equator, shrouded in a constant cloud cover.
Iguassu Falls, straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its sheer scale and beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the largest waterfall system in the world, with nearly 275 individual falls cascading over a rugged landscape. The Brazilian side of the falls offers stunning panoramic views, where visitors can marvel at the thundering torrents and the vibrant rainbows that often form in the mist.
The Iguassu National Park, which encompasses the falls, is a lush haven of biodiversity. Here, travelers can embark on a series of thrilling activities, including boat rides that take you close to the base of the falls, where you’ll feel the raw power of the water as it crashes down. For a more serene experience, the park's extensive network of trails provides opportunities for observing diverse wildlife, including toucans, jaguars, and capuchin monkeys.
A visit to the falls also offers a unique chance to explore the Argentinian side, where the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) viewpoint provides an unparalleled perspective of the falls' most dramatic and powerful section. The extensive network of walkways on this side allows visitors to get up close to the thundering cascades, enhancing the sensory experience.
A fun fact about Iguassu Falls is that the local name "Iguassu" means "big water" in the Tupi-Guarani language, reflecting the grandeur of this natural wonder. The falls were also featured in the 2016 film The Jungle Book as a backdrop for the cinematic adventures of Mowgli. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, Iguassu Falls offers an awe-inspiring experience that truly embodies the splendor of South America's natural heritage.