Baucau is Timor-Leste's second-largest city, located on the country's north coast on a plateau above the Ombai Strait. The city is surrounded by limestone hills, agricultural land, and tropical vegetation, with a cooler climate than the low-lying coastal plain below. Baucau is divided broadly into the older Vila Nova area and the historic Vila Velha, where colonial-era buildings, churches, and public spaces remain.
Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States, is a Caribbean island rich in history, culture, and natural diversity. Its capital, San Juan, is a vibrant hub where centuries-old Spanish forts, pastel-colored colonial buildings, and lively plazas tell the story of the island’s complex past.
Karlstad, Sweden, is a city that elegantly combines natural beauty with cultural charm. Situated on the banks of Lake Vänern, Sweden’s largest lake, Karlstad is renowned for its picturesque waterfront and abundant sunshine. The city’s Värmlands Museum provides an enriching experience with its exhibits on local history, art, and the region's unique cultural heritage.
Gold Harbour is a small bay on the southeastern coast of South Georgia, where a narrow beach sits beneath steep mountains and hanging glaciers. The site is known for its rich concentration of wildlife and its dramatic setting, with the snow-covered Salvesen Range forming a backdrop behind the shoreline. The name reflects the golden appearance of the cliffs and mountains when illuminated by low sunlight.
Kapolei, located on the western coast of Oahu, Hawaii, is a rapidly growing city often referred to as Oahu’s “Second City.” Designed as a planned community, Kapolei blends residential, commercial, and recreational areas, offering a more relaxed and family-friendly alternative to Honolulu. Its modern infrastructure, proximity to beaches, and cultural amenities make it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
Photo Credit: Photo by Nicholas Doherty on Unsplash
West of Osaka and situated on the banks of Osaka Bay, Kobe, Japan is a beautiful port city renowned for its historic shrines, botanical gardens, hot springs, and marbled Kobe beef. Highlights of this Japanese retreat include Ikuta Shrine, thought to be one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Botanical Gardens, Mount Rokkō, and Arima Onsen, a popular hot springs resort surrounded by Japanese maple trees.
Learn More About Kobe
Kobe Harborland
This previous freight yard is now a spectacular shopping and entertainment district.
Photo Credit: Thomas Schmitz
Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
Suspension bridge connecting Kobe to Iwaya, and spanning the Akashi Strait. Be sure to take a tour and visit the observation deck for magnificent views.
Other Popular Destinations in Japan
Tokyo
Shopping, historic temples, lush green spaces and exceptional dining are all part of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. This spectacular, highly populated metropolis holds unlimited options for tourists.
Kyoto
Travel through enchanting Kyoto to discover a cultural and spiritual haven in Japan. Once the country’s imperial capital, Kyoto is now home to magnificent shrines, lush botanical gardens and nature parks, and exceptional culinary delights.