Nestled in the dramatic landscape of the Basilicata region in southern Italy, Castelmezzano is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and medieval charm. The town, perched on the edge of the Lucanian Dolomites, is renowned for its unique architecture, with houses clinging to the steep rock faces, creating a picturesque and almost otherworldly scene. The dramatic peaks surrounding the town offer breathtaking views and a range of outdoor activities.
Luzon is the 15th largest island in the world, and the most populous island in the Philippines, home to 53 million people and the country’s capital, Manila. Luzon boasts a unique and eye-catching topography, with a variety of terrains and distinct geographical features. The north’s flat coastline and tropical pine forests meet at the site of Mount Pulag, Luzon’s tallest mountain peak.
Peru is a country that tells its story through stone, soil, and flavor. From the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu to the bustling food markets of Lima, every region reveals a different chapter of its heritage. One of the country’s most iconic sites, Machu Picchu, continues to draw visitors from around the world to see its stone terraces and cloud-kissed scenery, as well as the sense of wonder that accompanies the journey there.
Montgomery, capital of Alabama and seat of Montgomery County, a port on the Alabama River, in the central part of the state. Montgomery is the site of Alabama State University (1874), Auburn University at Montgomery (1967), Huntingdon College (1854), Troy State University at Montgomery (1966), Faulken University (1942), and a junior college.
Alter do Chão is a riverside village in the Brazilian state of Pará, on the banks of the clear Tapajós River. Though part of the larger municipality of Santarém, Alter do Chão has its own rhythm and identity, known far beyond Brazil for the white-sand beaches that appear when river levels drop between July and December. One of the most famous spots is Ilha do Amor (Love Island), a sandbar just off the village shore that feels almost like a hidden world of warm water and bright sky.
Named after the Italian city of Genoa, Genovesa Island is a dormant volcano in the Galápagos Islands. Its nickname, Bird Island, stems from the large and diverse bird population including storm petrels, red-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls and more.
Photo Credit: Photo by Mauricio Manzato on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by ダモ リ on Unsplash
One of the world's highest plateaus (approximately 12,000 ft. above sea level). Home to the Potala Palace, former living quarters of the Dalai Lama. Visit one of Tibet's holiest shrines, the revered 7th century Jokhang Temple, where pilgrims come to prostrate themselves before the statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha, lavishly enthroned in silver and gold.
Other Popular Destinations in China
Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city where history and modern life intersect on a grand scale. Ancient landmarks like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven reflect centuries of imperial heritage, while the Great Wall lies just outside the city, offering views of one of the most famous engineering feats in the world.
Xi'an
Xi’an, located in central China’s Shaanxi Province, served as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and was the capital of 13 imperial dynasties. Its long history is most famously represented by the Terracotta Army, an underground army of life-sized warriors discovered in 1974. Each figure has distinct facial features, hairstyles, and armor, designed to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.