Udawalawe National Park, located in southern Sri Lanka, is one of the country’s best places to see wild elephants in their natural environment. Established in 1972, the park protects an important watershed area around the Udawalawe Reservoir and provides a sanctuary for hundreds of elephants, which can often be seen roaming in herds across the open grasslands.

Vanuatu, a chain of 83 islands in the South Pacific, offers travelers an experience that’s both bold and deeply rooted in custom. Once known as the New Hebrides, Vanuatu blends ancient Melanesian traditions with dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. On Tanna Island, visitors can stand at the rim of Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, and watch fiery eruptions light up the night sky.

Along the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem is a charming village known for Reichsburg castle as well as its old town, with its half-timbered houses.

Cankuzo, tucked in Burundi’s eastern corner near the Tanzanian border, offers travelers a lesser-known but deeply rewarding experience. Known for its rolling hills, scattered woodlands, and untouched landscapes, Cankuzo is one of the country’s least populated provinces, which adds to its charm. The region’s peaceful setting makes it an ideal place to experience rural Burundi in its most genuine form.

Nestled in the Julian Alps of Slovenia, Kranjska Gora is a charming alpine town known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. This picturesque destination offers a gateway to breathtaking natural beauty, from the snow-capped peaks of the Julian Alps to the lush, green valleys that surround the town.