What sets Kaikōura apart are the extraordinary marine encounters that begin just off the shoreline. The Kaikōura Canyon, an underwater gorge that plunges to great depths close to land, creates currents rich with nutrients that attract a remarkable array of sea life year-round. Sperm whales are a common sight here and are frequently spotted on local boat tours. Dusky dolphins twist and leap in large pods, and colonies of New Zealand fur seals laze on rocky outcrops along the coast.
Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, is a city where ancient history and breathtaking archaeology converge. Nestled along the eastern bank of the Nile River, Luxor is home to some of the most remarkable and well-preserved relics of ancient Egypt. A visit to the Karnak Temple Complex, an expansive and awe-inspiring site dedicated to the Theban triad of gods, reveals the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious practices.
Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.
East End is a district on the eastern side of Grand Cayman, facing the open Caribbean Sea and covering a quieter stretch of the island away from George Town and the main resort areas. The district includes small settlements, low coastal vegetation, rocky shorelines, beaches, and shallow reef areas.
Guam, a vibrant island territory in the Western Pacific, offers travelers more than just sandy beaches and turquoise water. As the largest island in Micronesia, Guam has a dynamic past that’s shaped its present. Evidence of ancient Chamorro settlements can be found at sites like Latte Stone Park, where limestone pillars dating back over a thousand years stand tall.
Photo Credit: Photo by Steve Wrzeszczynski on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Jake Houglum on Unsplash
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Lahaina, Maui is the former capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and was once the site of a whaling village. This popular tourist destination is now a cultural center perfect for fine dining, visiting Hawaiian art galleries, whale watching, and immersing yourself in this region's rich history.
Other Popular Destinations in Hawaii
Honolulu, Oahu
Honolulu, the capital of Hawaiʻi and the largest city in the Pacific, blends the energy of a major urban center with the deep roots of Native Hawaiian culture. Set on the island of Oʻahu, it’s home to iconic beaches, royal history, and a rhythm all its own. This sunny capital city is the main portal to the larger Hawaiian archipelago, and the perfect base for exploring Oahu.
Kona, Hawaii
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.