Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. The island’s rich past is evident in its archaeological treasures, with Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman influences shaping its architecture and traditions. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is a must-visit for history lovers, where you can wander among some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece.
Western Samoa, a stunning island nation in the South Pacific, invites travelers with its rich cultural traditions and breathtaking landscapes—stunning rainforests, towering waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Made up of two main islands, Upolu and Savaii, along with seven smaller islands, Western Samoa is a vibrant hub of Polynesian culture.
Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.
Semarang is a port city on the north coast of Java, shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and cultural exchange. As an important hub during the Dutch colonial period, it developed into a city where Javanese traditions intersect with European and Chinese influences.
Killington, Vermont is best known for its ski resort, the largest in the eastern United States, but the town offers more than just winter slopes. Nicknamed “The Beast of the East,” Killington Resort spans six mountain peaks and includes over 1,500 acres of terrain. It was one of the first ski areas in the country to adopt snowmaking technology in the 1960s, and it continues to operate one of the longest ski seasons in North America, sometimes stretching from October into May.
Nestled in the heart of Quebec, Saguenay is a city that invites travelers to experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Set along the picturesque Saguenay River, this city is a gateway to the Saguenay Fjord, one of the longest fjords in the world, where steep cliffs rise dramatically from the deep waters. Visitors can explore this majestic landscape by boat, kayak, or even on foot, with numerous trails offering breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife such as belugas and seals.
Saguenay is also rich in cultural experiences. The La Pulperie de Chicoutimi, a former industrial site turned museum, delves into the city’s history, showcasing its transformation from a booming pulp mill town to a cultural hub. The museum also features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art and Quebec heritage, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts (La Pulperie de Chicoutimi). Another cultural gem is the Petite Maison Blanche (Little White House), a symbol of resilience after surviving the catastrophic floods of 1996, which has since become a local museum dedicated to the event (Petite Maison Blanche).
For those seeking adventure, Saguenay offers year-round activities. In winter, the region transforms into a snowy playground, ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Monts Valin National Park is particularly popular for its “ghost forest,” where snow-laden trees create a surreal winter wonderland (Sepaq Monts-Valin). In summer, the city’s proximity to the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park makes it a hotspot for whale watching, offering unforgettable encounters with these gentle giants of the sea (Marine Park).
Fun Fact: Saguenay boasts one of the highest rates of sunny days in Quebec, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities throughout the year!