Stretching 3.5 km, Playa Zicatela is Mexicos premier surfing destination, renowned for the powerful waves of the Mexican Pipeline. The epicenter of action, including the Pipeline, lies at the northern end. Non-surfers and beginners: beware of the strong undertow, which poses serious risks. Lifeguards perform rescues multiple times monthly. Beyond surfing, enjoy its wide, golden sands and relaxed vibe.The main beach is fronted by Calle del Morro, a vibrant blend of local Mexican beach culture and

Imagine arriving at the top of Squamishs Sea to Sky Gondola after a rewarding 7.5km hike on a balmy summer evening, savoring a craft beer with panoramic vistas. The Summit Lodge, a stunning example of sustainable Northwest architecture blending glass and wood, offers unbeatable views of Howe Sound and the thrilling 100m Sky Pilot suspension bridge.For an adventurous day, ascend via the Sea to Summit Trail from Shannon Falls, then descend effortlessly on the gondola (down-only tickets: $15). From

Renowned as one of the worlds top dinosaur museums, the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology underwent a $5.9 million expansion in 2019, elevating its world-class status. Even without prior interest in dinosaurs, visitors emerge captivated by palaeontologys wonders. The cutting-edge exhibits deliver breathtaking immersion—no outdated displays here. Interactive features delight children and families alike.Key highlights include the Hell-Boy skeleton, unearthed in 2005, and Black Beauty, a stunni

This iconic, somewhat dusty storefront in Memphis stands as the undisputed birthplace of American rock n roll. In the early 1950s, founder Sam Phillips captured timeless blues performances by legends like Howlin Wolf, B.B. King, and Ike Turner. It soon launched the rockabilly era with stars such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and Elvis Presley himself, who launched his career here in 1953. Guided tours last 45 minutes.Immersive tours (no children under five; hourly from 10:30 a.m.

Richmond, Virginia, thrives as a cultural hub, with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) as its premier institution. This world-class museum showcases an eclectic collection, highlighted by the Sydney and Frances Lewis Art Nouveau and Art Deco Galleries. Marvel at furniture and decorative arts by renowned designers like Eileen Gray, Josef Hoffmann, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.Discover one of the largest Fabergé egg collections outside Russia, plus iconic American masterpieces by Georgia OKe

Experience an unforgettable guided tour of Allerton Garden, a highlight of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, deep in Kauais Lawaʻi Valley. Philanthropist Robert Allerton, a Chicago native, spent three decades transforming this lush tropical valley—with its jungle river and ocean beach—into a masterpiece of stone walkways, serene pools, sculptures, waterfalls, gazebos, and exotic plants. Book ahead; access is guided tours only.Expert guides enthusiastically lead groups through the meticulou

The history of Nova Scotia is inextricably linked to the Fortress of Louisbourg, a massive French-built stronghold contested in repeated battles until its destruction in 1760. This national historic site meticulously recreates the fortress as it appeared in 1744, brought vividly to life by costumed interpreters as soldiers, cooks, orderlies, musicians, gardeners, and artisans. Free guided tours and engaging stories create an authentic time-travel experience.Constructed to defend French interests

Keawakapu Beach dazzles from dawn to dusk with its pristine, sparkling sands. Stretching from southern Kihei to Wailea’s Mokapu Beach, this tucked-away gem sits back from the main road, less visible—and less crowded—than Kihei’s busier northern beaches. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and savor Maui’s legendary sunsets.With its powdery soft sand, Keawakapu is a top choice for sunrise yoga and refreshing morning strolls. The calm ocean waters are perfect for evening swims. Snorkelers should head to

Discover two exceptional gardens in the lush Lawa‘i Valley, managed by the renowned National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG). Allerton Garden, nestled against a stunning beach, was once owned by Hawaii’s Queen Emma. From 1938, Chicago philanthropist Robert Allerton transformed it with extensive plantings and elegant ‘garden rooms’ featuring pools, sculptures, and gazebos.Inland, the magnificent McBryde Garden boasts diverse palms, flowering and spice trees, orchids, rare endemic species, a scen

Discover unparalleled natural beauty in southwestern Northwest Territories (NWT), near the Yukon border. This 30,000-sq-km UNESCO World Heritage Site is carved by the legendary South Nahanni River, which surges 500km through the dramatic Mackenzie Mountains. Access it via fly-in day trips from Fort Simpson to marvel at Virginia Falls, or embark on multi-day canoeing and rafting expeditions—guided trips start at $6640 for seven days with licensed outfitters.Exceptional hiking awaits in the Nahann

Opened to the public in 2015, McLeod Plantation on James Island delivers a candid and profoundly moving account of the lives of enslaved and later emancipated African Americans who lived and worked here from 1851 to 1990. Remarkably, the last African American resident—a nurse who cared for the grandson of the man who enslaved her great-great-grandparents—departed the former slave quarters just decades ago.This 37-acre historic site features a welcome center, a Georgian-style plantation house, a

One of the Road to Hanas most significant stops, this 294-acre ethnobotanical garden pairs with the awe-inspiring Piʻilanihale Heiau, the largest temple in Polynesia. Expert-guided tours reveal the profound bond between ancient Hawaiians and their environment, offering the best insight into pre-contact Hawaiian culture. Surprisingly, few visitors make the journey here.Piʻilanihale Heiau is a massive lava-stone platform stretching 450 feet. Its history remains mysterious, but its undeniably a key

Denali, at 20,310 feet (formerly Mount McKinley), stands out among the worlds most scenic mountains due to its impressive topographic prominence. Rising from a base of just 2,000 feet, it presents over 18,000 feet of rugged rock, ice, and snow on clear days—surpassing Mount Everests 12,000-foot rise from the Tibetan Plateau.Despite its height, Denali remains hidden from the park entrance, campgrounds, and hotel. The first views appear between Mile 9 and Mile 11 on Park Road, if conditions are cl

Long celebrated as one of Kauais North Shores most breathtaking beaches, Keʻe Beach sits beside the Kalalau Trailhead at the end of Kuhio Highway. Recent parking restrictions have revitalized the area, ensuring a more serene experience. Enjoy safe swimming in the reef-protected lagoon at its western end, tucked against the dramatic Na Pali cliffs. Always heed lifeguard warnings—currents can be unexpectedly strong, pulling swimmers through the reef.Stroll eastward along the tree-fringed sands, wh

Encompassing 1,136 acres of pristine wilderness, Fort DeSoto Park ranks among Floridas top beach destinations. It boasts 7 miles of stunning beaches—including a dog-friendly area—two fishing piers, and expansive nature trails linking five interconnected islands. The highlight for swimmers is North Beachs long, powdery sands, complemented by grassy picnic zones, a cafe, and a gift shop (open 10am–4pm Monday–Friday, until 5pm Saturday–Sunday). The cafe offers hourly rentals: bikes for $10 and kaya

En la esquina oriental de Michoacán, colindando con el estado de México, se encuentra la impresionante Reserva de la Biosfera de la Mariposa Monarca, de 563 km², declarada Patrimonio Mundial de la UNESCO en 2008. Cada otoño, desde finales de octubre hasta principios de marzo, millones de mariposas monarca llegan en oleadas a estas alturas boscosas de México para hibernar, tras volar unos 4.500 km desde la región de los Grandes Lagos en EE.UU. y Canadá.A medida que se acercan a su destino, las ma

Yosemite National Parks most iconic landmark, Half Dome, formed 87 million years ago, boasts North Americas sheerest cliff with a 93% vertical grade. Elite climbers tackle its legendary northwest face, while fit hikers summit via a challenging 17-mile round-trip trail from Yosemite Valley, gaining 4,900 feet in elevation. The final 200 yards feature cable handrails for safety.This demanding hike is feasible in one day but best enjoyed over two with an overnight camp, such as in Little Yosemite V

The Salvador Dalí Museums dramatic exterior—a 75ft geodesic glass atrium emerging from a towering white structure—hints at the wonders within. This world-class institution perfectly embodies a modern museum dedicated to Dalís life, art, and enduring legacy. Even those skeptical of his melting clocks and signature mustache will be mesmerized by the collection, especially the monumental Hallucinogenic Toreador.With 20,000 sq ft of gallery space, the museum displays all 96 oil paintings from its co

Since its opening in 1965, the Gateway Arch has far exceeded expectations as St. Louis enduring symbol. Now the centerpiece of Gateway Arch National Park, this shimmering 630-foot stainless steel arch—designed by acclaimed Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen (1910–1961)—serves as the Great Plains Eiffel Tower, honoring St. Louis role as the Gateway to the West.Ride the unique tram to the tops observation deck. Book tickets online or by phone in advance, as same-day sales often sell out duri

Seeking a nearly deserted, postcard-perfect beach with soft white sand cradling brilliant blue-green waters? Makalawena Beach—affectionately called Maks—delivers. This string of idyllic coves on Hawaiis Kona Coast handles crowds effortlessly, offering a true sense of paradise. The northern cove features sandier, calmer waters, while the southern one is an unofficial (and illegal) nude sunbathing spot. Swimming is exceptional, though watch for rough surf and submerged rocks. Bodyboarding and snor