Huntington Beach, California, famously known as “Surf City USA,” is a paradise for beachgoers and surf enthusiasts alike. With over 10 miles of pristine coastline, the city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant coastal culture. The Huntington Beach Pier, one of the longest on the West Coast, is an iconic spot for visitors to watch surfers ride the waves or catch a breathtaking sunset.

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Chamonix is a captivating destination renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. As the gateway to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, Chamonix is a haven for mountaineers, hikers, and skiers. The Aiguille du Midi cable car takes visitors up to 3,842 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Bordeaux is ready for its close-up! After years of improvements, modern public transportation is in place and the city is gleaming after a wave of restorations. When visiting this lovely destination, be sure to walk across the Garonne River-spanning Stone Bridge (17 arches in all!) and see Place des Quinconces, France's grandest public square.

Off the coast of Ecuador, the iconic and biodiverse Galápagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin’s nineteenth-century research expeditions on HMS Beagle, beckon you. This glittering archipelago, surrounded by vivid turquoise waves, abounds with stunning beaches and spectacular wildlife, perfect for the adventurous traveler.

Who would have thought, back in the tumultuous coup and counter coup days of the 1970s, that Burkina Faso would become the cultural darling of West Africa? Unlikely as it seems, Burkina Faso has become the Utah of West Africa, hosting a biennial film festival that rivals the Sundance Film Festival for cultural clout. When it's not hosting film festivals, it's busy organizing its other biennial cultural festival.