Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is one of Africa’s most vibrant and unpredictable cities. Sprawling along the banks of the Congo River, it’s the third-largest city on the continent and pulses with music, art, and personality at every turn. Across the river lies Brazzaville, making Kinshasa part of the only pair of national capitals facing each other across a single waterway.

Visit the ancient city of Memphis and take in the wonders of the recumbent statue of Ramses II and the 80-ton Alabaster Sphinx.

Spitsbergen is the largest island of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, where the wonders of the Arctic come alive in breathtaking fashion. Known for its wild, untamed beauty, Spitsbergen offers travelers the chance to experience landscapes that are both surreal and majestic. From towering glaciers and jagged mountain peaks to expansive tundra and crystal-clear fjords, this frozen paradise is an explorer’s dream.

Taormina, with its hilltop location above the Ionian Sea, is easily one of Italy's most beautiful places. As it's packed with people in the summertime, recommended months to visit include April and September.

Normandy is a province along the Northwestern coast of France. It was the site of the important World War II landings and battle and one of the most fascinating regions of France. This land is rich in legend and scenic splendor. Visit coastal villages, museums, fortresses and fragrant gardens.