Catania, nestled on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a city shaped by fire and stone. Built from the black lava of Mount Etna, it’s a landscape filled with energy and contrasts from its Baroque palaces to its open air fish markets. At the heart of the city stands the Piazza del Duomo, where the iconic Fontana dell’Elefante, which is carved from volcanic rock, greets every visitor who passes by.

Rarotonga, the vibrant heart of the Cook Islands, offers visitors a chance to experience island life with striking scenery and rich tradition. This volcanic island is only 32 kilometers around, making it easy to explore by scooter or bicycle in a single day. From the lush mountains of the interior to the lagoon that wraps around the coast, Rarotonga feels intimate but never short on discovery.

Bogotá, the vibrant capital of Colombia, sits high in the Andes at 2,640 meters above sea level. The city balances historic charm with modern energy, where cobblestone streets meet bold street art and colonial churches stand beside sleek galleries and cafes. At the heart of it all is La Candelaria, Bogotá’s oldest neighborhood, where travelers can visit centuries-old buildings, including the neoclassical Capitol and the richly decorated Gold Museum.

Rocamadour is a remarkable village set against a steep limestone cliff in the Lot department of southwestern France. Its stone buildings, narrow lanes and ancient sanctuaries rise in stages above the Alzou River valley, giving the settlement a striking silhouette that has drawn visitors for centuries. Pilgrims have come here since the Middle Ages to see the Black Madonna in the Chapelle Notre-Dame and to walk the Chemin de Croix.

Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, offers a captivating mix of Viking and medieval history, with landmarks like the Waterford Treasures museums and the House of Waterford Crystal showcasing its rich heritage and craftsmanship. Beyond its history, Waterford boasts stunning coastal beauty, especially along the UNESCO-listed Copper Coast, where dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and charming villages invite exploration.