Balboa, Panama rests on the Southern tip of the Panama Canal, with the capital city of Panama lying just on the opposite side. It is a wonderful tourist community for anyone visiting the Panama Canal.
Veneto, a region in northeastern Italy, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city of Verona, famous for its Shakespearean connection, is a jewel within this region. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman Arena, where operas and concerts are still held amidst the ruins. Wander through Verona’s medieval streets, and you’ll find Juliet’s House, a romantic site made famous by Romeo and Juliet.
Bay of Fires is a coastal region on Tasmania’s north-east coast, extending from Binalong Bay in the south to larapuna/Eddystone Point in the north. It is recognized for white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and granite rocks marked by orange lichen. The Bay of Fires Conservation Area includes beaches, rocky headlands, coastal heath, dry forest, and sheltered bays
Dunedin is a coastal city on Florida’s Gulf Coast in Pinellas County, positioned along St. Joseph Sound and surrounded by barrier islands, beaches, and waterways. Its compact downtown is known for independent shops, restaurants, breweries, galleries, and a walkable main street, while the Pinellas Trail provides a popular route for cycling and walking through the community.
Pärnu, often called Estonia’s “summer capital,” is a charming seaside city known for its long sandy beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant spa culture. Located along the coast of the Gulf of Riga, Pärnu has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century, when it became one of Northern Europe’s premier spa destinations.
Photo Credit: Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Gina Hamm on Unsplash
Astoria, Oregon is the state's oldest city. Located on the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean, Astoria is rich in history, including fishing, canning and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. With its scenic views and landscape, it has been called "little San Francisco."
The city's architecture tells its own story, with many well-preserved buildings from its 19th-century past. The Astoria Column, an iconic 125-foot-tall tower, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is adorned with a mural depicting scenes from the region's history. Climbing the 164 steps to the top provides an unforgettable view of the city, the Columbia River, and even the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Astoria serves as a gateway to diverse natural attractions. The Fort Stevens State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, a historic military fort, and access to expansive beaches perfect for a day of exploration or relaxation. The nearby Youngs River Falls provide a scenic and tranquil setting for a short hike to a picturesque waterfall.
A fun fact about Astoria is that it served as the filming location for the beloved 1985 film The Goonies, which has become a cultural touchstone for fans worldwide. The town celebrates its connection to the film with events and tours that appeal to movie buffs and families alike. Visit Astoria in the spring or summer to experience its festivals, mild weather, and vibrant community events, making it an ideal time to explore both its historical and natural attractions.
Other Popular Destinations in Oregon
Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, is a city where natural beauty and urban innovation coexist harmoniously. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and framed by volcanic mountains, Portland offers an array of outdoor adventures alongside its renowned cultural scene. Visitors can explore the lush expanses of Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., or take a leisurely stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden, which showcases exquisite traditional Japanese landscape design.
Newport
About halfway down the Oregon coast, the picturesque Yaquina Head Lighthouse welcomes you to Newport, a town known for its Dungeness crab and glorious harbor under the graceful Yaquina Bay Bridge. The historic Bayfront offers a mixture of shops, galleries, canneries and restaurants that serve fresh clam chowder, shrimp, oysters, crab and salmon.