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.
Abidjan, the largest city in Ivory Coast, is a vibrant coastal hub known for its striking skyline, lively markets, and cultural energy. Situated along the Ébrié Lagoon, it serves as the country’s economic and commercial center, blending modern urban life with West African traditions. Nicknamed the “Paris of West Africa,” Abidjan offers a dynamic mix of business districts, beachside neighborhoods, and green spaces that reflect its diverse character.
Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Cuenca, Ecuador, is a city that seamlessly blends colonial charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Known as the “Athens of Ecuador” due to its vibrant intellectual and cultural life, Cuenca's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that delights visitors with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and red-tiled roofs.
Venezuela is a country of contrasts, offering travelers a mix of rainforests, savannas, and Caribbean beaches. The country is home to unique destinations like Canaima National Park, where the world-famous Angel Falls, the tallest waterfall on Earth, cascades from an incredible height of 979 meters (over 3,200 feet). Visitors can take boat trips through jungle rivers, explore the iconic tabletop mountains, and marvel at the landscapes.
Val Gardena, nestled in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a hidden gem for travelers seeking alpine beauty. This stunning valley is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dolomites, renowned for its dramatic mountain landscapes, lush meadows, and charming villages. Whether you're visiting in the summer for hiking and mountain biking or in the winter for world-class skiing, Val Gardena offers year-round adventure paired with breathtaking scenery.
The Romans arrived in Beziers in 35 BC wher they found a bustling city, which they were quick to colonize. Beziers today is a dynamic city whose oldest houses are laid out in the elliptical pattern revealing the underlying Roman Amphitheatre, which is currently being excavated. The Beziers townspeople are passionate about rugby and the bullfights held in their modern arena.
The best places to visit to Les Neuf Ecluses (Nine Canal Locks) of Fonserances, the Oppidum d'Enserune (hillfort ruins from a Third Century BC Iberian Greek settlement), and the ruins of romanesque Abbey de Fontcause, a romantic location for concerts.