Ponta do Sol is a small coastal town on the northern shore of Santo Antão, one of Cabo Verde’s most mountainous islands. The settlement sits between steep valleys and the Atlantic Ocean, with colorful buildings clustered around narrow streets and a waterfront used by local fishermen. Its position makes it an important starting point for exploring Santo Antão’s rugged northern coast and inland valleys.
Killarney National Park occupies more than 10,000 hectares in County Kerry in southwest Ireland, surrounding lakes, mountains, woodland, waterfalls, and historic estates. Established as Ireland’s first national park, it includes Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake, with the peaks of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks forming a dramatic backdrop. Much of the park is covered by native woodland, including areas of ancient oak forest and yew woodland.
Telavi is the administrative center of Georgia’s Kakheti region, located between the Gombori mountain range and the Alazani Valley. The town is known for its connection to winemaking, traditional balconies, and views toward the snow-covered Caucasus Mountains.
Nestled in the lush landscapes of western Cuba, Viñales offers an enchanting escape into a world where time seems to slow down amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Renowned for its striking limestone formations, known as mogotes, the Viñales Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The valley's dramatic scenery provides an ideal backdrop for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring underground caves like the Cueva del Indio.
Located 75 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz is a vibrant and laidback city on the central coast of California. Settled by Spanish Missionaries in the late 18th century, Santa Cruz has become a coastal paradise for surfers, students, and lovers of nature. Nestled between Wilder Ranch State Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, University of California, Santa Cruz, is the city’s leading research institution.
Photo Credit: Photo by Vismantė Žigutytė on Unsplash
Antiquity is everywhere on the island of Rhodes, from its cobbled Old Town to a mighty acropolis presiding high over the town of Lindos. Ancient ruins recall Crusades-era occupation and Ottoman tyranny, but today, a rather magical Aegean lifestyle is predominant. Travelers will enjoy excellent food, picturesque beaches, buzzing nightlife, and snorkeling in clear waters. Some must-sees here include the Palace of the Grandmaster of the Knights of Rhodes (a medieval castle), the Colossus of Rhodes statue, and the nature reserve Valley of the Butterflies.
Other Popular Destinations in Greece
Athens
Ancient history comes alive in Athens, the capital of Greece. Gaze in wonder at the Acropolis and its iconic crown, the Parthenon. Take a deeper dive into the past and visit both the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, which house fascinating artifacts from this ancient city.
Santorini
Reshaped by volcanic activity, the rugged yet enchanting Santorini beckons all seafaring souls in the Aegean Sea. Visitors to this breathtaking and romantic Cyclades archipelago will gaze at the whitewashed cubiform houses sitting cliffside and hovering over the water.