In ancient times, Kaanapali was a royal retreat for the rulers of Maui, who delighted in the perfect three-mile stretch of white sand beach, the gentle waves, warm sunny days and the majestic West Maui Mountains. Maui royalty surfed, raced their outrigger canoes, feasted at luaus that lasted for weeks, and where the Kaanapali Golf Course now blankets the land, they played ulu maika, a form of lawn bowling with heavy lava balls.
Lofoten, a breathtaking archipelago in northern Norway, is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler who sets foot on its dramatic shores. Renowned for its towering peaks, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages, Lofoten offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking the beauty of the Arctic wilderness.
Castries, St. Lucia's capital and a busy port city, is an idyllic Caribbean wonderland. Tourists will find craft and fruit markets, photo-ready murals and a general cozy charm here. One must-do activity is getting to the top Morne Fortune (Hill of Good Luck) to drink in the lovely panoramic views. Be sure to visit the museum at Derek Walcott Square, and soak up the sun on Vigie Beach!
Swakopmund, on Namibia’s Atlantic coast, is a town where desert meets ocean in striking contrast. Founded by German colonists in the late 19th century, its streets are lined with colonial-era buildings painted in pastel colors, giving the town a distinctly European feel.
Kona started as King Kamehameha I's government seat, and is now a popular tourist destination with key landmarks like Hulihee Palace, as well as coffee farms, shopping and dining.
Located on the Rhône River, Avignon is the city to which the Popes fled when leaving the corruption of Rome in the 14th century. The palace they built, 'Le Palais des Papes,' is a breathtaking must see. After touring this majestic Gothic structure, be sure to hike the Parc de Rochers des Doms for a panoramic view of Avignon, the Rhône River Valley, and the St. Bénezet Bridge.