Norfolk Island may be small but it carries a story that spans centuries. Located in the South Pacific between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia, the island is a fascinating blend of Polynesian roots, British convict history, and Pitcairn Island culture. Today, visitors can walk through one of the best-preserved penal settlements in the world at Kingston, where stone ruins and restored Georgian buildings stand against a backdrop of green hills and the open sea.
Fort William, located on the western edge of the Scottish Highlands, is often referred to as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” but there’s more here than rugged landscapes. Ben Nevis draws hikers from across the world, but visitors don’t need to climb to its summit to experience the scenery. Not far from town, Glen Nevis offers film fans a familiar view, scenes from *Braveheart*, *Harry Potter*, and *Highlander* were all filmed in this dramatic valley.
Sukhothai, located in north-central Thailand, was once the capital of the first independent Thai kingdom in the 13th century. Today, it’s best known for the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with stone temples, lotus-filled moats, and ancient Buddha statues. The park spans over 70 square kilometers and features more than 190 ruins.
Located on the coast of Sinaloa, Mexico, Mazatlán is a trendy resort town with spectacular beaches and thrilling nightlife. Centro Histórico (Old Town) and Plazuela Machado are replete with colorful, newly-restored neoclassical buildings.
Located in northern Germany, Hamburg is an important commercial hub on the Elbe River and unique for the expansive system of canals which divide the city in two. Replete with fascinating architecture and scenic waterfront promenades, Hamburg offers plenty to see and explore!