Hammerfest, located above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, is one of the northernmost towns in the world with a population of over 10,000. It’s a place where the midnight sun shines from mid-May to late July, and the polar night sets in from late November to mid-January. Historically a hub for Arctic hunting and fishing, Hammerfest was also the first town in Northern Europe to install electric streetlights in 1891.
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, stands as Africa’s highest peak and an iconic symbol of adventure. This majestic stratovolcano rises 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it one of the world’s most accessible high summits. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers a unique opportunity to traverse multiple climate zones, from lush rainforests and alpine meadows to the icy summit.
Tongatapu, the main island of Tonga, is where tradition, history, and the South Pacific’s natural world intersect in quiet and unexpected ways. As the political and cultural center of the Kingdom of Tonga, it is home to the capital city, Nukuʻalofa, as well as ancient royal burial grounds, dramatic coastal blowholes, and friendly villages where daily life unfolds slowly.
Travelers on the Arabian Sea often find themselves in Muscat, on the Gulf of Oman. This port capital is situated between ocean and mountains, and boasts lovely beaches, great diving sites (watch for turtles!), 16th-century forts, and the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which can hold 20,000 people.
The Caribbean Sea, a gem nestled between the Caribbean islands and the coastlines of Central and South America, offers a breathtaking escape into a world of azure waters and tropical allure. Encompassing over 2.5 million square kilometers, this sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and idyllic islands.