Whether witnessing the thunderous calving of Dawes Glacier, spotting orcas gliding through the water, or simply taking in the serenity of the fjord, a journey through Endicott Arm is a remarkable encounter with one of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes.
Sisimiut, Greenland's second-largest city, offers a captivating glimpse into Arctic life and stunning natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of the Davis Strait, Sisimiut is renowned for its striking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.
Just south of Kyoto, Osaka is one of Japan’s largest cities and a cultural hub known for its spectacular culinary scene. Highlights of this sprawling and lively city include majestic Osaka Castle, whose tiers of white and green tower over Nishinomaru Garden’s blooming pink cherry trees, as well as the Shitennoji Buddhist temple, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and ever-popular Universal Studios Japan.
Djerba, an enchanting island off the southern coast of Tunisia, is a world of sun, sea, and history. Known as the "Island of a Hundred Mosques," Djerba’s skyline is dotted with minarets rising from whitewashed villages. The town of Houmt Souk, the island’s vibrant capital, is a delightful introduction to Djerba’s blend of cultures and traditions.
The Volga River is an emblematic waterway that meanders through the heart of Russia, offering an exceptional journey through the country’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. As Europe’s longest river, stretching approximately 3,530 kilometers (2,194 miles), the Volga flows from the Valdai Hills to the Caspian Sea, weaving through major cities such as Tver, Nizhny Novgorod, and Volgograd. This grand river is not only vital for transportation and trade but also a central feature in Russia's cultural heritage.
Cruising along the Volga provides a unique vantage point to experience Russia's diverse landscapes and architectural marvels. The Volga River Cruises are particularly popular, offering travelers an opportunity to explore historic cities and picturesque countryside from the comfort of a riverboat. Highlights include the historic city of Kazan, with its stunning Kazan Kremlin, and Volgograd, known for its monumental Motherland Calls statue, which commemorates the fierce Battle of Stalingrad during World War II.
The river's significance is further underscored by its role in Russian folklore and literature. The Volga Boatmen's Song is a traditional Russian song that evokes the hardships and nostalgia of those who worked on the river. Additionally, the region is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Volga Regatta, which celebrates the river's historical and cultural importance with rowing and boating events.
The Volga River is sometimes referred to as the “Mother Volga” because of its profound influence on Russian culture and its role in the livelihoods of countless communities along its banks. Its importance is reflected in the numerous cultural and historical sites that dot its course, making it a truly enchanting destination for those interested in exploring the depth of Russia's heritage.