British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.
Nestled on the banks of the Danube River, Vidin, Bulgaria, is a city where history and scenic beauty converge. This ancient city, known for its well-preserved medieval fortress, the Baba Vida Castle, offers a unique glimpse into Bulgaria's past. The fortress, dating back to the 10th century, stands as one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in the country.
Tonga is distinctly different to its neighboring island nations. This Polynesian kingdom, made up of 170 islands, carries a proud history that dates back over 3,000 years. On the main island of Tongatapu, travelers can explore ancient stone structures like the Haʻamonga ʻa Maui Trilithon—sometimes called the Stonehenge of the Pacific. Royal tombs in Lapaha offer a glimpse into the lineage of Tonga’s kings, while village life remains guided by customs that have changed little over centuries.
This small cruise port is located in Mexico's Yucatan peninsula south of Playa del Carmen, near Belize. It is famous for Chacchoben, a breathtaking set of Mayan ruins. The port has a new and modern shopping mall and the central plaza has saltwater pools and 'swim-up' style bars for tourists to enjoy.
Ol Doinyo Lengai, often called the "Mountain of God," is an active volcano located in northern Tanzania and is a must-visit for adventurous travelers. Towering over the Great Rift Valley, this majestic peak is unique due to its lava composition. Unlike most volcanoes that produce molten lava, Ol Doinyo Lengai emits natrocarbonatite lava, which is unusually cool and flows like water. This rare phenomenon makes it one of the most intriguing volcanic landscapes on Earth.
Puerto Limon is a busy port city and capital of the Limon province. This Caribbean locale is blanketed with rainforest habitats and full of tropical beauty.