Maui is a Hawaiian paradise offering an incredible variety of landscapes, experiences, and cultural traditions. Known for its valleys, beaches, and volcanic peaks, Maui attracts visitors who want to immerse themselves in nature and Hawaiian heritage. The island’s crown jewel is Haleakalā National Park, where the massive dormant volcano provides beautiful scenery and unforgettable sunrise views. Visitors can hike through the park or stargaze under one of the clearest night skies in the world.
Killarney National Park occupies more than 10,000 hectares in County Kerry in southwest Ireland, surrounding lakes, mountains, woodland, waterfalls, and historic estates. Established as Ireland’s first national park, it includes Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake, with the peaks of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks forming a dramatic backdrop. Much of the park is covered by native woodland, including areas of ancient oak forest and yew woodland.
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.
Gozo, the smaller sister island of Malta, offers a tranquil contrast to the busier main island, blending rich history, rugged landscapes, and a slower pace of life. Known for its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and dramatic coastline, Gozo has preserved much of its rural charm, allowing visitors to step back into centuries of Mediterranean culture and tradition.
Nestled in the mountains just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone has long been a retreat for travelers seeking both quiet and culture. Once a crucial checkpoint on the historic Tōkaidō road between Edo and Kyoto, Hakone is still shaped by centuries of history. The reconstructed Hakone Sekisho (Hakone Checkpoint) offers a glimpse into the Edo Period, when travelers were inspected by samurai guards before continuing on their journey.
Photo Credit: Photo by Xavier von Erlach on Unsplash
Situated at the foot of Mont Collon, the small village of Arolla is a popular starting point for summer mountain hikes as well as a common stop on the Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route expeditions. In the winter, it's a small ski resort with five lifts and guaranteed snow thanks to the elevation.
Other Popular Destinations in Switzerland
Lucerne
Behold beautiful Lucerne! This German-speaking area of central Switzerland on Lake Lucerne is a truly spectacular locale. Surrounded by mountains and notable for its famous Chapel Bridge, this idyllic and musical Swiss locale is wonderful any time of year.
Basel
Basel is the global center of the pharmaceutical industry, but most travelers visit for the world-famous ART Basel festival, as well as the numerous art galleries, iconic architecture and museums.