Stromboli is a small volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, just off the north coast of Sicily. Referred to by some as the "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean," Stromboli is in a constant state of mild volcanic activity, so don't venture out on a hike without an experienced guide.

France’s city of Reims, located in the heart of the Champagne region, is a place where history and celebration meet. Known for its towering cathedral, Reims played a central role in French royal tradition. Nearly every French king was crowned at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that still dominates the skyline. The cathedral’s intricate facade and famous stained-glass window continue to draw visitors from around the world.

Greece’s island of Cephalonia, nestled in the Ionian Sea, invites travelers with a relaxed pace and a landscape shaped by myth, history, and nature. Larger than its neighboring islands but far less crowded, Cephalonia offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Greek life amid dramatic cliffs, lush pine forests, and charming harborside villages.

France offers far more than its capital city. While Paris draws millions each year, the country’s true richness lies in its variety, from Alpine villages to Atlantic coastlines, medieval towns to Mediterranean markets. In Normandy, visitors can walk along the D-Day beaches or explore the towering abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, which becomes an island at high tide. Further inland, the Loire Valley is dotted with over 300 castles, many of which are open for tours and even overnight stays.

Niigata sits along the Sea of Japan on Honshu’s west coast, a place where long winters and bright summers shape its traditions and flavors. For centuries this region has produced some of Japan’s finest rice, especially the Uonuma Koshihikari variety known for its rich taste and texture. That quality rice helps make Niigata sake famous across the country, and visitors can sample more than 90 local brews at tasting spots such as Ponshukan inside Niigata Station.