Springfield is the capital of Illinois and a city closely associated with Abraham Lincoln, whose home, law practice, and political career were based there before he became president. Located in the central part of the state, Springfield sits amid the prairie landscape of the Sangamon River Valley.

Redwood National and State Parks protect a remarkable coastal landscape in northern California, where ancient redwood forests grow alongside rivers, prairies, wetlands, and the Pacific Ocean. The protected area extends across a series of parks in Del Norte and Humboldt counties, preserving some of the tallest trees on Earth. Dense stands of coast redwoods create shaded forest environments beneath a canopy of towering trunks, while nearby coastal bluffs and beaches provide a striking contrast.

Cat Island, one of the more unspoiled Out Islands of The Bahamas, is a destination that feels worlds away from the busier resort hubs. Stretching about 50 miles long, the island is lined with pink-sand beaches, rolling green hills, and quiet fishing villages where time seems to stand still.

Nicaragua offers travelers a look into centuries of layered history set against striking natural backdrops. Visitors can tour the baroque-style Granada Cathedral, take a boat ride through Las Isletas (a chain of small, volcanic islands in Lake Nicaragua), or climb the bell tower of Iglesia La Merced for sweeping city views.

Brazil's third largest city, Belo Horizonte was founded in 1897. Most of Brazil's gems and semi-precious stones are mined in this area and it is where you can find the best bargains, from aquamarines to imperial topaz. It is just 59 miles from Brazil's most historic colonial city, Ouro Preto.

About halfway down the Oregon coast, the picturesque Yaquina Head Lighthouse welcomes you to Newport, a town known for its Dungeness crab and glorious harbor under the graceful Yaquina Bay Bridge. The historic Bayfront offers a mixture of shops, galleries, canneries and restaurants that serve fresh clam chowder, shrimp, oysters, crab and salmon.