Hammerfest, located above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, is one of the northernmost towns in the world with a population of over 10,000. It’s a place where the midnight sun shines from mid-May to late July, and the polar night sets in from late November to mid-January. Historically a hub for Arctic hunting and fishing, Hammerfest was also the first town in Northern Europe to install electric streetlights in 1891.

Although its great days are past, its palaces and castles deserted, gondar is one of Ethiopia's most fascinating cities and one of the world's most mysterious. The city stands at the foot of the Simien mountains and is set in a landscape of incomparable beauty. Gondar is the former 17th century capital of Ethiopia, although some say it was Saudi Arabia.

Byron Bay lies on the far north coast of New South Wales, Australia, where wide beaches meet the deep blue Pacific and the point of land known as Cape Byron marks the easternmost tip of the mainland. Standing tall above the coastline, the Cape Byron Lighthouse has guided ships since 1901 and now greets walkers and sightseers who take the scenic cliff-top path for views stretching toward whales during their migration season.

Barnes Bay, on Anguilla’s western coast, is one of the island’s most striking beaches, known for its golden sand and dramatic backdrop of rugged cliffs. The bay is less frequented than some of Anguilla’s more famous shores, giving it a serene, secluded atmosphere that makes it a favorite for those seeking a quieter escape.

Located roughly in the center of the country, Riobamba is one of Ecuador's largest cities and the starting point of the scenic train ride to Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose). The city has a strong indigenous presence, which lends itself well to the open-air artisan market, and plenty of opportunities for mountainous activities such as hiking and mountain biking.