Kaohsiung sits on Taiwan’s southern coast and rises from one of the island’s busiest harbors into a city that rewards slow exploration and lively discovery. History and local belief surface at the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas beside Lotus Pond in Zuoying District. These twin pagodas that are connected to the shore by a zigzag bridge, invite visitors to walk through the dragon’s mouth and out the tiger’s, a practice locals associate with turning bad luck into good fortune.

Pendleton, Oregon, sits in the heart of the high desert region, where wide open skies meet rolling wheat fields and the rugged Blue Mountains. The city is widely recognized for its rich history in ranching, railroads, and wool production, which visitors can explore through preserved buildings and museums. Downtown Pendleton features brick storefronts, murals, and sculptures that reflect the city’s connection to both the frontier and the railroad era.

Zihuatanejo, a charming coastal town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, invites travelers with its blend of serene beaches and vibrant local culture. Nestled on the Bay of Zihuatanejo, the town offers a picturesque escape with its stunning shoreline, where the gentle waves lap against golden sands. The tranquil atmosphere of Playa La Ropa, one of the town’s most renowned beaches, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and savoring fresh seafood from beachfront restaurants.

Fort William, located on the western edge of the Scottish Highlands, is often referred to as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” but there’s more here than rugged landscapes. Ben Nevis draws hikers from across the world, but visitors don’t need to climb to its summit to experience the scenery. Not far from town, Glen Nevis offers film fans a familiar view, scenes from *Braveheart*, *Harry Potter*, and *Highlander* were all filmed in this dramatic valley.

The Atlas Mountains extend across Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, forming a vast system of ranges between the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts and the Sahara.