Lisbon, the enchanting capital of Portugal, entices sightseers with its vibrant color, stunning Gothic architecture, and temperate weather. Easily traversed by foot or tram, the city’s distinct quarters and vivid cultural landmarks make Lisbon an excellent spot for exploration.
You'll know why picturesque Grenada is known as the "spice island" when you notice the scent of nutmeg, vanilla and cocoa in the air. Grenada's waterfalls, lush rain forests, volcanic crater lake, tiny villages, cocoa, nutmeg and banana plantations, rum distilleries, scenic hiking trips, pristine coral reefs, and hidden-away unspoiled beaches all make Grenada one of the most popular ecotourism destinations for those who like to discover off-the-beaten-track natural beauty and charm.
Nosy Be, often called the “Perfume Island” due to its fragrant ylang-ylang trees, is Madagascar’s largest and most popular tourist destination. Situated off the northwest coast of Madagascar, this tropical paradise boasts powdery white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush inland rainforests, making it an idyllic escape for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Nosy Be is renowned for its stunning marine life.
Located on the north coast of Morocco near the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is a cultural capital replete with historic sites, colorful architecture, and splendid beaches. An essential stop is the Ancien Medina, a walled collection of winding streets and alleys filled with cafes and shops leading to the Kasbah, a former palace and mosque that also houses a museum.
Ottawa, the charming capital of Canada, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Nestled along the scenic Ottawa River, the city is home to the iconic Parliament Hill, where the Gothic Revival architecture of the Parliament Buildings stands majestically above the riverbanks. Visitors can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard in the summer or explore the Peace Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Tartu is celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene. The city's bustling Town Hall Square is surrounded by charming 18th-century buildings and hosts various events throughout the year. The Tartu Art Museum and the KGB Cells Museum offer fascinating insights into Estonia’s history and art.
Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a remote gem in the southeastern Pacific Ocean that promises an extraordinary journey into the mysteries of Polynesian culture and history. Famous for its monumental stone statues known as moai, Easter Island captivates visitors with its enigmatic past. These colossal statues, crafted between 1400 and 1650 AD, are scattered across the island and are a testament to the islanders' sophisticated artistry and social organization. The moai can be explored at various archaeological sites, such as Rano Raraku, the quarry where these statues were carved, and Ahu Tongariki, which boasts the island’s largest moai platform with 15 statues.
The island’s rich cultural heritage is also on display at the Rapa Nui National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses most of the island’s archaeological treasures. Visitors can delve into the island's history at the Museo Antropológico Sebastián Englert, which houses artifacts and exhibits on the island's unique Polynesian culture and the history of the moai statues. The island’s traditional dance and music performances offer an immersive experience into the local customs and traditions, with vibrant, rhythmic performances that bring the island’s cultural tapestry to life.
Natural beauty complements the historical allure of Easter Island. The island features stunning landscapes, including the volcanic craters of Rano Kau and the lush scenery of the island’s interior. The beaches of Anakena, with their white sand and turquoise waters, provide a perfect spot for relaxation and swimming. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy trails leading to panoramic views from the island’s volcanic peaks or explore hidden caves and lava tubes.
Fun fact: Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, situated over 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers) from the nearest continental landmass, making it a true journey to the edge of the world.