Michael Stein

The initial step off the bullet train onto the Kyoto Station platform transports you into an entirely new world, combining feudal Japanese culture with a modern metropolis. From colossal temples and historic shrines to gorgeous nature and incredible food, Kyoto offers a classic travel experience that everyone should enjoy at least once. Come hungry, be ready to walk, and relish the cultural capital of Japan.

Road-tripping the southern coast of Iceland is truly a celestial experience. The land of "fire and ice" may as well be on a different planet; as you navigate the Nordic winds on Route 1, the scale of natural beauty is simply otherworldly. Black volcanic rocks, speckled with forest-green moss against the backdrop of a cerulean sky, create a visually stunning palette that few places can replicate. Chasing waterfalls, hiking active volcanoes layered in glacial ice, and bathing in thermal springs heated by that same volcanic activity are just a handful of the transcendental experiences found along the southern coast. Be prepared to stop often, and try your hardest to count your “wow” moments. Most people lose track.

Don’t let the rain scare you! Seattle is a true gem and a must-see destination when visiting the Pacific Northwest. Encircled by Puget Sound and punctuated by the iconic Space Needle, the Emerald City offers no shortage of things to do. The blend of a world-class coffee culture with the birthplace of grunge music creates an experience that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere.

The quintessential ecotourism destination, La Fortuna greets visitors with a wide array of unforgettable outdoor experiences. Its diverse ecosystem, numerous hot springs, and countless opportunities for adventure make this town unmissable when visiting Costa Rica. Have you ever wandered the rainforest in pursuit of sloths against the hazy backdrop of an active volcano? If the answer is yes, you’ve probably been to La Fortuna. If not, it’s time to book a trip to this eternal paradise.

This circular scenic drive is a bucket-list item for all types of travelers. Whether you’re taking your time and stopping along the way, or doing a “speedrun” and completing the drive in one day (it is possible), the Ring of Kerry needs to be a part of your Ireland itinerary. Breathtaking coastal views? Check. Green mountains as far as the eye can see? Check. Resting your eyes from all the scenery over a tall pint of Guinness in a quaint Irish village? Check, check, and check. The Ring of Kerry is calling.

As the gateway to the Arctic Circle, Tromsø offers access to a blend of Nordic culture and adventure. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in the winter or becoming a night owl during the summer midnight sun, a trip to Tromsø is truly unforgettable. Worried about the cold? Tromsø actually offers a mild winter climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°F to 36°F.

With 37 million people and endless energy, Tokyo is a travel experience like no other. Whether you want to dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant—Tokyo has the most out of any city!—or test your timing at the world's busiest train station, adventure begins and ends in Japan’s capital.

Marrakech is a city that awakens all five of the human senses. Watch the awe-inspiring sight of the sun rising above the Atlas Mountains. Then, listen to the sounds of the hustle and bustle of the Medina. Breathe in the fragrances emitted from traditional fanoos lamps, and taste the spices perfectly incorporated with succulent meats in a traditional tagine. Finally, feel the delicate fibers of a freshly woven Berber rug.