Killington, Vermont is best known for its ski resort, the largest in the eastern United States, but the town offers more than just winter slopes. Nicknamed “The Beast of the East,” Killington Resort spans six mountain peaks and includes over 1,500 acres of terrain. It was one of the first ski areas in the country to adopt snowmaking technology in the 1960s, and it continues to operate one of the longest ski seasons in North America, sometimes stretching from October into May.
Cat Island, one of the more unspoiled Out Islands of The Bahamas, is a destination that feels worlds away from the busier resort hubs. Stretching about 50 miles long, the island is lined with pink-sand beaches, rolling green hills, and quiet fishing villages where time seems to stand still.
Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, is a city with a story that spans more than a thousand years. Its coastal setting has long shaped its character, blending African, Arab, and Persian influences that can still be seen in its culture and architecture today.
Anuradhapura, located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It served as the island’s capital for more than a millennium, beginning in the 4th century BCE. Today, its vast archaeological complex spans several square kilometers and includes some of South Asia’s most significant Buddhist monuments.
Kyle of Lochalsh, located on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands, serves as a gateway to the Isle of Skye via the Skye Bridge, but the village itself deserves more than a passing glance. Once the terminus of the Highland Railway, the town still welcomes visitors by train on one of the UK’s most scenic routes. The line from Inverness to Kyle passes through remote glens, past lochs and mountain ranges, ending just steps from the waterfront.
Khao Sok National Park in Thailand is a stunning natural haven that promises a truly immersive experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled in southern Thailand, this sprawling park is renowned for its lush rainforests, dramatic limestone cliffs, and tranquil lakes. The park’s centerpiece, Cheow Lan Lake, is a breathtaking expanse of emerald waters surrounded by towering karst formations, ideal for boat tours and exploring floating lodges.
The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, offering opportunities to spot diverse species in their natural habitat. With over 300 bird species and a variety of mammals including the elusive Malayan sun bear and the rare Indochinese tiger, Khao Sok is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Guided jungle treks take you deep into the heart of the forest, where you can marvel at ancient trees and cascading waterfalls.
Khao Sok’s unique limestone formations create a dramatic landscape that offers spectacular hiking and caving experiences. The Nam Talu Cave adventure is particularly popular, guiding visitors through a labyrinth of underground tunnels and chambers illuminated by natural light. For a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy a serene canoe ride along the Sok River, where the jungle canopy provides a cooling shade and a chance to spot wildlife.
Fun Fact: Khao Sok is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, estimated to be over 160 million years old. This ancient forest predates even the Amazon and harbors a treasure trove of biodiversity.
Visit Khao Sok between November and April for the best weather conditions, with less rain and pleasant temperatures that make for ideal outdoor adventures. This hidden gem in Thailand promises an unforgettable escape into one of the world’s most enchanting natural landscapes.