More or less smack dab in the middle of the country, the Midwestern United States doesn’t get as much attention as other parts of the country. But that’s definitely not because there isn’t anything worth seeing or doing. The Midwest is one of America’s most overlooked regions, with great people, attractions, nature, and local culture to discover.

The Deep South in the southern United States is inextricably linked to the nation’s history. Originally the “cotton states” of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana, these states relied on plantation-style cotton farming for their local economy in the 18th century. Today, that term has expanded to include neighboring states Tennessee, Texas, and Florida, and the Deep South has developed its own signature cultural heritage totally unique to anywhere else in the world.

Fall in Europe is stunning. Seemingly overnight, iconic European cities transform as their treescapes turn golden and garnet, while normally packed streets, parks, and public areas become quieter as summer tourists disappear. Simply put, it’s the perfect time of year to travel and explore the Old World continent.

Here are five of the best European destinations to head this fall, and what to do, see, and experience while you’re there!

Leipzig

Paris is synonymous with style, elegance, history, and excitement. From upscale boutiques on the Champs-Élysées to quaint boulangeries, cafés, and wine bars at every turn, there’s truly something unique in every corner of France’s historic capital city.

Asian representation outside of Asia is at an all-time historical high, and you can see it most anywhere in the world. Asian communities abound in America, Canada, and Europe, and serve as an all-important pillar for the local Asian diaspora. From historic settlements that have withstood the test of time to up-and-coming hipster hubs, here are some of our favorite Asian neighborhoods where Eastern tradition meets Western influence.

San Francisco

College sports are a fundamental part of campus life in the United States. Not only have they been around for longer than most professional sports leagues, like the NFL or NBA, they’re an integral part of a school’s identity–and by extension, its student body.

Just because the temperatures are getting cooler doesn’t mean we have to hibernate. With over 90,000 miles of coastline, America has some of the finest beaches in the world. Even better, many of them are warm, year-round – here are some of the best beaches in the US you can (comfortably) enjoy during the fall and winter.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It offers a chance to experience new cultures, forge enriching connections, and broaden one’s perspective of the world. It’s also an opportunity to meet challenges head on. Unforeseen circumstances and situations are an everyday occurrence when you’re in a new country – that’s half the fun! But just because it’s supposed to be unpredictable, that doesn’t mean that you can’t still be prepared for what lies ahead.