Oviedo, the capital of Asturias in northern Spain, offers a rare mix of medieval heritage and everyday life that feels rooted rather than staged. The city’s historic center is home to some of the oldest pre-Romanesque buildings in Europe, including the UNESCO-listed Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. Cider, not wine, defines the local table. Oviedo is surrounded by apple orchards, and the traditional drink, sidra natural, is poured from a height by skilled escanciadores.

Vigo is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Galicia, Spain, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty with origins dating back to Roman times and a fascinating evolution that has transpired through the centuries.

Leleuvia Island is a small island in Fiji’s Lomaiviti group, located off the eastern coast of Viti Levu between Bau, Moturiki and Ovalau.

Danco Island also offers a close look at how Antarctic wildlife uses a small ice-covered island. Gentoo penguins establish colonies on rocky and snow-free areas, while the surrounding channel provides access to feeding grounds. The island’s exposed slopes and summit can be windy, and snow conditions may vary considerably between visits. Its compact landscape means that even a short excursion can reveal glaciers, mountains, sea ice, seabirds, and penguin colonies within a relatively small area.

Furano is a small city in central Hokkaido, surrounded by the Tokachi and Yubari mountain ranges. Its broad basin contains farmland, rolling hills, rivers, and open countryside, while the surrounding mountains provide a distinct backdrop in every season. Furano is particularly associated with fields of lavender and other flowers, but agriculture remains an important part of the local landscape beyond the famous flower farms.