La Palma, nicknamed La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island), is the greenest of the Canary Islands. Its ecological diversity ranges from dense forests to dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches, offering endless discoveries. While sunbathing spots tempt you to stay motionless by the lapping ocean waves, many visitors choose to explore volcanic trails, wander through ancient laurel forests, or marvel at the stars from the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. You’ll never be bored!

In 1831, Charles Darwin sailed to South America aboard the H.M.S. Beagle. On the return voyage across the Pacific, the vessel stopped on a small group of islands far off the Ecuadorian coast, changing the course of human scientific endeavour and self-understanding forever. Fascinated by the unique wildlife on the islands, Darwin collected biological specimens and studied them over the next 30 years. His findings led to the formulation of the scientific theory of evolution by natural selection. This small group of islands and their one-of-a-kind wildlife are to thank for one of humanity's most remarkable discoveries. And today, almost 200 years later, they remain a source of endless fascination and a favourite travel destination for scientists, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, scuba divers, and anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

The state of Maine sets its own pace in the otherwise bustling New England. With an eased temperament that stems from lakefront breezes and whispering forests, the town of Rangeley does not stray from its state’s tempo. Known as "Maine's Four Season Playground," the town offers a wealth of outdoor activities centered around Mooselookmeguntic Lake. In warmer months, the lake beckons visitors to fish, boat, kayak, and explore its pristine waters. Come winter, the landscape transforms into a wonderland for skiing and snowboarding.

Forever immortalised as the setting for Don Quixote's misadventures, the beautiful medieval city of Ciudad Real is just a short train journey from Madrid or Seville. Remnants of ancient city walls, churches galore and spectacular cuisine based primarily on cheese, cured meats and wine are but some of the reasons to visit.

A gateway between the two nations of the Iberian peninsula, Badajoz lies as close to Lisbon as it does to Madrid or Seville, and the city draws on influences from both sides of the border, as well as from centuries of tumultuous history, to form its distinctive character. Winding medieval alleys and a skyline dotted with palace towers make the historic town a sight to behold, while the remnants of the majestic Alcazaba watch over the city as they have for centuries, once an impenetrable fortress that protected the area from countless invasions.