Saudi Arabia is revealing chapters long unseen by tourists. Al-Ula is home to Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the kingdom and hosts to ancient Nabatean tombs carved in sandstone cliffs. Nearby, the mirrored Maraya Concert Hall reflects the desert sky, its design both unexpected and elegant amid the sands. Visitors can wander through narrow canyons, step inside rock-hewn facades, and feel the weight of ancient civilizations still echoing across the dunes.
Nestled in the northeastern corner of France, Alsace is a region that enchants with its picturesque villages, half-timbered houses, and vibrant blend of French and German cultures. Renowned for its scenic vineyards, Alsace's Route des Vins (Wine Route) stretches over 170 kilometers, winding through charming medieval towns like Riquewihr, Colmar, and Eguisheim.
The Netherlands offers travelers a landscape where innovation and tradition intersect. In cities like Amsterdam, visitors can explore centuries-old canal networks and Golden Age architecture while also encountering contemporary art installations and sustainable urban design. The Rijksmuseum houses masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, while a short walk away, the Van Gogh Museum brings visitors closer to one of history’s most studied painters.
Isola Bella sits on Lake Maggiore as part of the Borromean Islands, closely tied to the ambitions of the Borromeo family who reshaped the rocky outcrop in the 17th century.
Tampa, Florida, offers more than just sunshine and palm trees, it’s a city with character, history, and plenty of unexpected experiences. Founded as a military outpost in the 19th century, Tampa has grown into a vibrant waterfront city with strong Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences. This cultural blend is especially noticeable in Ybor City, a historic district known for its red-brick buildings and deep cigar-making roots.
The city of Santa Cruz De Tenerife, located on the island of Tenerife, is a favorite stop for Transatlantic voyagers. Tenerife is both the largest and most populated of the seven Canary Islands and of Spain itself. As the island's main city, Santa Cruz De Tenerife is home to almost half of the island's population.
Primary landmarks include the Santa Cruz Towers and the Iglesia de la Conception. In addition, its charming old wood-balconied buildings house attractive shops full of island handicrafts and enticing duty-free goods.
As an alternative, take a tour inland through steep mountains forested in pine and laurel to snow-capped Mount Teide (the highest peak in Spain). The last part of your island tour may be by funicular and there's a stunning view at the top.