Azerbaijan, often called the “Land of Fire,” sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia along the Caspian Sea. Its capital, Baku, blends futuristic architecture with centuries-old history.

Aguas Calientes, officially called Machupicchu Pueblo, sits in a narrow valley below the ruins of Machu Picchu, shaped almost entirely by geography and access.

Kanazawa, Japan, is a captivating city that offers a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, Kanazawa is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese experiences.

Katmai National Park and Preserve lies along Alaska’s remote Pacific coast, shaped by volcanism, glaciers, and deep time. The area gained prominence after the 1912 Novarupta eruption, one of the largest volcanic events of the 20th century, which transformed the landscape and led to the creation of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.

Olympic National Park occupies Washington State’s remote northwest corner, shaped by isolation and ecological range rather than a single defining feature.