Tahiti
Tahiti captures the imagination like few other places on Earth. While many people picture it as a single small island, it actually serves as the beating heart of a massive territory that spans an area as large as Europe. For instance, the local alphabet is so efficient it uses only thirteen letters to create a rich and melodic language. Furthermore, the island itself is shaped like a figure-eight, consisting of two distinct volcanic ranges connected by a narrow isthmus. Prepare to journey to the land where the word “tattoo” was born.
Lance Armstrong
Lance Armstrong was once the ultimate American hero, a cancer survivor who conquered the toughest race on earth seven times in a row. While the world now knows him as the face of the biggest doping scandal in sports history, his story is far more complex than just a confession to Oprah. For instance, he made a small investment during his retirement that unexpectedly made him more money than his entire cycling career. Furthermore, despite being stripped of his titles, he refuses to take down the yellow jerseys hanging in his home. Prepare to ride with the boss of the peloton.
Zheng He
Zheng He commanded the largest wooden fleet the world has ever seen. While Christopher Columbus sailed with three small boats, this Chinese admiral led floating cities that housed thousands of men. For instance, his flagship was longer than a modern football field. Furthermore, he was a eunuch who rose from slavery to become the right hand of the emperor. Prepare to set sail with the Three-Jewel Eunuch.