Accra, the vibrant capital city of Ghana, is a bustling metropolis brimming with energy and cultural heritage. As the heartbeat of Ghana, Accra offers an array of experiences that reflect the country's rich history and modern dynamism. Begin your exploration at the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, a poignant tribute to Ghana's first president and a symbol of the nation's fight for independence.

Vientiane, the serene capital of Laos, offers a charming blend of historical significance and cultural richness. Nestled along the Mekong River, this laid-back city is renowned for its picturesque temples and colonial architecture. The That Luang stupa, Vientiane’s most revered landmark, is an impressive golden monument that stands as a symbol of Lao sovereignty and Buddhism.

The Namib Desert, one of the world’s oldest deserts, stretches along the western coast of Namibia, offering a landscape of stunning, otherworldly beauty. The name “Namib” means "vast place," and fittingly so, as this desert spans over 2,000 kilometers and includes some of the tallest sand dunes on Earth, such as those found in Sossusvlei.

In Cyprus, travelers are immersed in a culture that draws on Europe, the Middle East, and 9000 years of constant invasion. Crusader castles rub shoulders with ancient vineyards, frescoed monasteries overlook citrus orchards, and sandy, sun-soaked feet tread Roman mosaic floors.

More than 300 days of sunshine annually (more than San Diego or Miami Beach) earns Denver high marks with visitors and make sunglasses a must. For the city's most energetic shopping, dining and entertainment spots, point your compass in the direction of Larimer Square, the Tivoli, LoDo and the 16th Street Mall.