Pemba Island, located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking pristine natural beauty and cultural depth. Known as the "Green Island" for its lush, tropical landscapes, Pemba is a quieter, less-visited alternative to its famous neighbor Zanzibar. The island is a haven for those interested in diving and snorkeling, as its coral reefs teem with marine life, from colorful fish to graceful sea turtles.
Colca Canyon, located in southern Peru’s Arequipa region, is one of the deepest canyons in the world, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in some areas. What makes it stand out even more is how human settlements have coexisted with the landscape for centuries. Along its walls, pre-Inca agricultural terraces still hold crops like corn and quinoa. One of the main draws of the canyon is the opportunity to see Andean condors in flight.
One of Japan's 60 core cities, Aomori is well-known for its beautiful landscapes. Favorite landscapes include the Hakkoda Mountains and Lake Towada. Another of the city's highlights is the Nebuta Matsuri, an annual festival known for its daily parade of giant, colorful lantern floats.
Pulau Ubin, an island northeast of mainland Singapore, offers a glimpse into the country’s past with its preserved kampong (village) atmosphere and rustic landscapes. Unlike the modern cityscape of Singapore, Pulau Ubin retains its traditional charm, with wooden houses, coconut palms, and unpaved roads where bicycles are the main mode of transport.
Malta, a small island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers visitors a rich blend of history and vibrant local culture. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with grand Baroque architecture, narrow streets, and significant historical landmarks like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio. The city's fortifications tell stories of centuries of military importance, guarding one of Europe’s busiest harbors.