Pärnu, often called Estonia’s “summer capital,” is a charming seaside city known for its long sandy beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant spa culture. Located along the coast of the Gulf of Riga, Pärnu has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century, when it became one of Northern Europe’s premier spa destinations.

Kamloops, located in the interior of British Columbia, sits at the meeting point of the North and South Thompson Rivers. The name comes from the Secwépemc word “Tk’emlúps,” meaning "where the rivers meet," and the area has been a gathering place for Indigenous communities for thousands of years. Today, visitors can explore this rich cultural heritage at the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park, where trails lead through archaeological sites and reconstructed pit houses.

Nature is never far in Helsinki. Locals swim in the sea, walk forested trails, and gather mushrooms or berries all within city limits. One popular local habit is heading to the sauna, and the city offers several open-to-the-public options. Löyly, located on the waterfront, combines traditional wood-burning saunas with a sleek, modern design. In winter, visitors can even pair a sauna session with a quick dip through a hole cut in the ice for an experience both shocking and strangely calming.

Nestled along the Basque coast in southwestern France, St-Jean-de-Luz is a picturesque fishing town that exudes a unique blend of French elegance and Basque charm. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and its well-preserved old town, St-Jean-de-Luz is a gem of the French Basque Country.

Boise, Idaho, often surprises first-time visitors with its dynamic mix of western history, creative culture, and easy access to outdoor experiences. Nestled at the base of the Boise Foothills, the city has grown from a 19th-century outpost into a capital city with a distinctly independent spirit. The downtown core is walkable and welcoming, where historic buildings now house coffee shops, craft breweries, and local boutiques.