Columbia River Gorge

Nawiliwilli, Kauai

This is your passage into the sacred "Garden Isle," where the sweet smell of the mokihana berry permeates the air and the lush green landscapes intoxicate your senses. Visit Waimea Canyon and witness the union of water, sunshine, clouds and canyon walls as they create the most colorful rainbows imaginable.

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Cook Islands

The Cook Islands, a group of 15 islands scattered across the South Pacific, offer a rare blend of Polynesian tradition and laid-back island charm. Rarotonga, the largest and most visited island, is ringed by a turquoise lagoon and backed by lush mountains. Visitors can circle the entire island in under an hour, stopping along the way for fresh coconut, beachside cafés, or a quick swim in the clear lagoon.

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Toronto

The capital of Ontario and Canada's largest city, Toronto is a vibrant destination on the banks of Lake Ontario. Highlights of this striking cultural capital include the looming CN Tower (featuring a revolving restaurant), Casa Loma, Toronto Island Park, Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley's Aquarium of Canada.

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Montecatini

Montecatini Terme, in Tuscany’s Valdinievole region, is one of Italy’s most renowned spa towns, celebrated for its thermal waters and elegant Belle Époque charm.

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Floreana Island

Located off the coast of Ecuador, Floreana Island is one of the Galápagos Islands and a popular stop for gazing at a variety of wildlife, including Galápagos tortoises and flamingoes. Post Office Bay is home to the island chain's first post office site, originally established by visiting whalers in the 18th century. Though one of the smallest islands in the Galápagos, Floreana is well worth the trip!

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Chobe River

The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the Chobe National Park. Animal lovers and safari enthusiasts know it as the place where the elephants congregate during winter's dry season and migrant birds are in full color during the wet summer months. The river itself is actually a section of the Cuando River, known as the Chobe from the seasonal lake Liambesi to its outflow at the Zambezi River.

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Photo Credit: Image by Don White from Pixabay

Photo Credit: Image by imarketem from Pixabay

Multnomah Falls

Photo Credit: Image by Eliza June Sapphire from Pixabay

The Columbia River Gorge, straddling the border between Oregon and Washington, is a stunning natural wonder renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. This dramatic canyon, carved by the Columbia River, is flanked by towering cliffs and lush forests. One of the highlights is the Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, cascading 620 feet into a serene pool below. The falls are accessible via a scenic trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding gorge.

Nature enthusiasts will find a plethora of activities in the Columbia River Gorge. The Gorge's Scenic Highway offers a picturesque drive with numerous viewpoints, including the historic Vista House. For hiking, the Eagle Creek Trail is a must-visit, leading through lush forests to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. In addition to its natural beauty, the area is renowned for its excellent wind and water sports on the Columbia River, such as windsurfing and kayaking.

The Columbia River Gorge is also home to charming towns like Hood River and White Salmon, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and explore vibrant arts scenes. Hood River is known for its fruit orchards, especially apples and pears, which you can sample at local farmers' markets and cideries. White Salmon offers a more laid-back vibe with access to mountain biking trails and cozy cafes.

A fun fact about the Columbia River Gorge is that it serves as a natural boundary between the Cascade Range and the high desert of eastern Oregon. This unique geography creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems within a relatively small area. For the best experience, visit during spring or fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak.