Legend and myth swirl Santorini, luring visitors by the million. An off-season visit finds locals grateful for the advantages its popularity brings, yet eager to find a more sustainable future

THE LITTLE-KNOWN CYCLADIC ISLE OF FOLEGANDROS IS A HAVEN FOR THE RARE ELEONORA’S FALCON — AND FOR THOSE IN SEARCH OF A QUIET, NATURE-INSPIRED RETREAT

My motives for this trip were varied. I was on the committee that vetted applications for the Ocean Cruising Club’s Challenge Grant when Project Manaia had applied for a grant to support their environ

From island-hopping in southerly Okinawa to farm experiences in rural Aomori and skiing in far northern Hokkaido, this diverse archipelago offers intriguing local culture, ancient history and epic wilderness experiences around every corner — and deeper exploration reaps huge rewards

(whatever your budget!)

This week’s dream: wonder and melancholy in eastern Turkey ...