Nestled in the mountains just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone has long been a retreat for travelers seeking both quiet and culture. Once a crucial checkpoint on the historic Tōkaidō road between Edo and Kyoto, Hakone is still shaped by centuries of history. The reconstructed Hakone Sekisho (Hakone Checkpoint) offers a glimpse into the Edo Period, when travelers were inspected by samurai guards before continuing on their journey.

Parma, in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is a city where art, history, and gastronomy intertwine. Known worldwide as the birthplace of Parmesan cheese and Parma ham, the city has long been a culinary capital, but its cultural depth extends far beyond the table.

Djúpivogur, a charming coastal village on Iceland’s eastern fjords, offers travelers an authentic and serene Icelandic experience. Nestled between majestic mountains and the tranquil Berufjörður fjord, this small fishing town is steeped in history and natural beauty. Its picturesque harbor, where colorful boats bob against a backdrop of rugged cliffs, is the heart of the town.

You'll know why picturesque Grenada is known as the "spice island" when you notice the scent of nutmeg, vanilla and cocoa in the air. Grenada's waterfalls, lush rain forests, volcanic crater lake, tiny villages, cocoa, nutmeg and banana plantations, rum distilleries, scenic hiking trips, pristine coral reefs, and hidden-away unspoiled beaches all make Grenada one of the most popular ecotourism destinations for those who like to discover off-the-beaten-track natural beauty and charm.

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.