Norway offers a landscape shaped by glaciers, framed by fjords, and steeped in Viking history. The country's coastline stretches for over 100,000 kilometers if you count every inlet and island, which makes it one of the longest in the world. Travelers can take a ferry through the Geirangerfjord or cruise along the Lofoten Islands, where steep mountain peaks rise dramatically from the sea. These routes aren’t just scenic; they’ve been lifelines for coastal communities for centuries.
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.
Makarska, nestled along the stunning Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, is a gem that blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. The town is renowned for its picturesque setting between the Biokovo Mountain range and the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea. The Makarska Riviera boasts some of Croatia's most beautiful beaches, such as Punta Rata, known for its fine pebbles and crystal-clear water.
Located in Greece's Lesser Cyclades, Naxos is an island in the South Aegean Sea and popular for its spectacular beaches. A favorite tourist destination, Naxos is home to a variety of ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo - Grotta, the Temple of Demeter, and Apano Kastro.
San Nicolas, known as Aruba’s “Sunrise City,” offers a completely different vibe from the island’s resort-heavy northwest coast. Located at the southeastern tip, this former oil refinery town has reinvented itself as the cultural heart of Aruba, filled with vibrant street art, local galleries, and a strong sense of community.