What sets Kaikōura apart are the extraordinary marine encounters that begin just off the shoreline. The Kaikōura Canyon, an underwater gorge that plunges to great depths close to land, creates currents rich with nutrients that attract a remarkable array of sea life year-round. Sperm whales are a common sight here and are frequently spotted on local boat tours. Dusky dolphins twist and leap in large pods, and colonies of New Zealand fur seals laze on rocky outcrops along the coast.

Its legacy as the former imperial capital of Vietnam is just one of many reasons to visit Hue. For more than a century, the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945) ruled from the Forbidden Purple City, the innermost enclosure of the citadel. Today, this complex is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and draws millions of visitors each year.

The capital of Ontario and Canada's largest city, Toronto is a vibrant destination on the banks of Lake Ontario. Highlights of this striking cultural capital include the looming CN Tower (featuring a revolving restaurant), Casa Loma, Toronto Island Park, Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley's Aquarium of Canada.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of France, Alsace is a region that enchants with its picturesque villages, half-timbered houses, and vibrant blend of French and German cultures. Renowned for its scenic vineyards, Alsace's Route des Vins (Wine Route) stretches over 170 kilometers, winding through charming medieval towns like Riquewihr, Colmar, and Eguisheim.

This charming town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Scottish Gaelic culture, music, and history, making it a popular port city for visitors and a great starting point for exploring the rest of the archipelago.