The Gulf of Alaska, a vast expanse of icy blue waters nestled along the southern coast of Alaska, is a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This pristine region is renowned for its dramatic fjords, rugged coastline, and majestic glaciers, which contribute to its breathtaking scenery.
Ouidah is a coastal city in southern Benin, situated between the Atlantic Ocean and a network of lagoons and wetlands. It is one of the country’s most historically significant destinations and is known for its connections to the Atlantic slave trade, religious traditions, and cultural heritage.
Djúpavík is a tiny settlement on the shore of Reykjarfjörður in the remote Strandir region of Iceland’s Westfjords. The village is surrounded by steep mountains, a narrow fjord, and largely undeveloped coastal landscapes, with only a handful of buildings clustered beside the water. Its identity is closely tied to the abandoned herring-processing complex that dominates the settlement.
The Gobi Desert, spanning across northern China and southern Mongolia, is one of the world’s most iconic and mysterious landscapes. Known for its vast stretches of arid plains, towering sand dunes, and rugged mountains, the Gobi offers a stark, breathtaking beauty that has captivated explorers and travelers for centuries.
Located on the banks of the Danube, Spitz an der Donau is a charming market town in Austria's Wachau valley. Occupied since Celtic times, Spitz offers spectacular views of the Danube valley. Picturesque Renaissance and Baroque houses line quaint cobblestone streets at the foot of Tausendeimerberg (the "Hill of a Thousand Buckets), so named for its abundant vineyards. To the south, towering above Spitz is the famous fortress of Hinterhaus Castle, the thousand-year-old ruins of which are in fine condition and only a short hike away. History buffs will also want to visit the late Gothic church, St. Mauritius, which houses the wooden Apostles statues that date back to 1380, and a high altarpiece painting by Austrian artist Kremser Schmidt.
Other Popular Destinations in Austria
Vienna
Vienna has a long memory. Once the capital of the Habsburg Empire, the city still carries signs of its imperial past in its palaces, concert halls, and wide boulevards. Visitors can walk through the Hofburg complex, where emperors once ruled, or tour the opulent rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, which features 1,441 rooms and a maze in its gardens. But Vienna’s many historic buildings now house contemporary art museums, cafés, and institutions that reflect the city’s modern identity.
Dürnstein
West of Vienna, the quaint town of Dürnstein lies on the banks of the iconic Danube and is the perfect destination for river cruising, sightseeing, and enjoying the best of Austrian culture. Though small, this picturesque village offers plenty to see and do.