Kagoshima, Japan offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Nestled on the southwestern tip of Kyushu, this city is famously dominated by the imposing Sakurajima volcano, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. Visitors can take a ferry to get up close to the volcano or view it from the Kagoshima City Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views.

Baddeck sits along the calm waters of the Bras d’Or Lake on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, a village with deep roots and stories to tell. Its name comes from an Indigenous word thought to mean “place with an island near,” a nod to nearby Kidston Island and the long history of the Mi’kmaq people in the area. A highlight for many visitors is the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, where the legacy of one of history’s most inventive minds comes alive.

Bayonne, nestled in the heart of France's Basque Country, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. This charming city, with its half-timbered houses and narrow cobbled streets, sits at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers, creating a picturesque setting that invites leisurely exploration. The Gothic Bayonne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views and an opportunity to admire its breathtaking 13th-century architecture.

Mijas, perched on the hillside above the Costa del Sol, blends centuries of Andalusian tradition with views that stretch across the Mediterranean. The whitewashed buildings of Mijas Pueblo reflect sunlight from narrow cobbled streets that wind through small plazas, each with its own fountain, chapel, or overlook. The town’s layout still follows Moorish-era planning, and remnants of the old wall (La Muralla) offer shaded walks lined with native plants and panoramic views over the coast.

Malta’s ornate and vibrant capital, Valletta, dazzles travelers with its abundance of historical landmarks and striking architecture. This island jewel off the coast of Italy remains a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises. From central St. George’s Square, to sixteenth-century Casa Rocca Piccola, to the Siege Bell War Memorial, Valletta has no shortage of monuments detailing the city’s long history.