Located in western Austria, Innsbruck is a charming European destination on the banks of the Inn River. A popular stop for skiing, Innsbruck is nestled within the Alps and offers a variety of cable cars to whisk you to the mountains for outdoor sports and spectacular views of the Innsbruck below.
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.
Tortuguero, located on Costa Rica’s remote northern Caribbean coast, is a destination unlike any other in the country. Accessible only by boat or small aircraft, this coastal village sits between the Caribbean Sea and a network of freshwater canals. Its name, meaning "place of turtles," comes from the thousands of sea turtles that arrive annually to lay their eggs on its beaches, including green, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles.
Pakistan is a country of remarkable diversity, combining mountains, deserts, rivers, and coastal areas. The northern regions feature some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, while the southern plains are home to fertile agricultural land and the port city of Karachi.
Opatija, located on Croatia’s Kvarner Bay, has been drawing visitors since the 19th century, when Austro-Hungarian aristocrats built grand villas along its Adriatic shoreline. Today, many of those same buildings still stand with some restored as luxury hotels and others preserved as cultural landmarks. The town’s most recognizable structure, Villa Angiolina, opened in 1844 and marked the start of Opatija’s rise as a fashionable seaside resort.
Praslin Island, the second-largest island in the Seychelles, is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. With its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, Praslin offers an idyllic escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure. The island’s crown jewel is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ancient palm forest and unique flora, including the rare coco de mer palm. Walking through Vallée de Mai is like stepping into a prehistoric world where giant palms and endemic bird species create a captivating and otherworldly experience.
The breathtaking beaches of Praslin, such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Anse Lazio, often rated among the world's most beautiful beaches, features powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a perfect setting for relaxation. For those interested in underwater adventures, Praslin’s coral reefs are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving.
Exploring the island’s charming local culture is also a highlight. The Praslin Market provides a glimpse into everyday Seychellois life, where you can sample local delicacies, fresh fruits, and handmade crafts. In the evening, indulge in the island’s seafood cuisine at local restaurants, savoring dishes made from freshly caught fish and exotic ingredients.
Fun Fact: Praslin Island is home to the largest giant tortoises in the Seychelles, which can be observed at the Curiousea Tortoise Park. These magnificent creatures, some of whom are over 100 years old, offer a fascinating insight into the island’s wildlife.