Gallipoli is a coastal town in Puglia’s Salento peninsula, built around an old city that occupies a limestone island just offshore from the modern mainland. A bridge connects the historic island with the newer part of town, creating a distinctive layout shaped by the sea. The old center contains narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, small squares, churches, and remnants of defensive walls, while the waterfront opens toward the Ionian Sea.
Amédée Islet, known locally as Îlot Amédée, is a small coral islet in the lagoon off the southern coast of New Caledonia. It lies within the New Caledonian Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its extensive reef systems and marine habitats. The islet is surrounded by shallow turquoise waters, coral reefs, and sandy beaches, while low vegetation covers much of its interior. Its most recognizable landmark is the Amédée Lighthouse.
Sitka is a coastal community on Baranof Island in Southeast Alaska, set between the forested slopes of the Alexander Archipelago and the waters of Sitka Sound. The city has a compact waterfront setting surrounded by temperate rainforest, islands, mountains, and productive marine waters. Sitka's location gives it a strong connection to fishing, boating, wildlife, and outdoor recreation, while its streets and historic buildings reflect both Tlingit and Russian influences.
Polonnaruwa, located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, served as the island’s capital nearly a thousand years ago. Today, it offers one of the most extensive and well-preserved archaeological sites in South Asia. Visitors can walk among the ruins of royal palaces, Buddhist monasteries, and intricately carved stone temples. One of the highlights of Polonnaruwa is the Gal Vihara, a group of colossal Buddha statues carved directly into granite.
Toyama is a regional capital on the Sea of Japan coast, set between Toyama Bay and the mountains of the Northern Japan Alps. The city is known for its close relationship with both the sea and the alpine interior, with waterways, fertile plains, and snow-fed rivers shaping the surrounding landscape. Toyama also serves as a gateway to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and the mountain communities of the wider prefecture.
Furano is a small city in central Hokkaido, surrounded by the Tokachi and Yubari mountain ranges. Its broad basin contains farmland, rolling hills, rivers, and open countryside, while the surrounding mountains provide a distinct backdrop in every season. Furano is particularly associated with fields of lavender and other flowers, but agriculture remains an important part of the local landscape beyond the famous flower farms.
Photo Credit: Photo by Caroline McFarland on Unsplash
Kiawah Island boasts over 10 miles of wide, immaculate, ocean beach. Soothing by day, romantic by night, the beach is complimented by river, meandering lagoons, and pristine marshlands.
Nearby Charleston’s influences abound. The choices are plentiful and the people are polite. Kiawah’s friendly character is derived from the gracious Charleston lifestyle, in which Southern Hospitality is never the exception and every meal is a celebration.
The ocean beaches on Kiawah Island provide storm protection for upland areas; habitat for a variety of plant and animal species; nesting habitat for sea turtles; and recreational opportunities for residents and guests.
Other Popular Destinations in South Carolina
Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a gem of Southern charm and history, offering an immersive travel experience in a beautifully preserved city. Known for its cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture, Charleston's historic district is a living museum where visitors can stroll past colorful row houses and elegant mansions. Key landmarks include the Battery and Rainbow Row, a series of pastel-colored houses that are among the city's most photographed sites.
Greenville
Greenville, South Carolina sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has grown from a former textile center into one of the Southeast’s most appealing small cities.