Niamey, the capital of Niger, sits along the banks of the Niger River and serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. Its riverside setting provides both scenic views and a hub for local activities, from fishing to small boat transport.

Madeira, an archipelago off the coast of Portugal, is often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate and lush landscapes. Funchal, its vibrant capital, is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of the old town, marvel at the Gothic-style Sé Cathedral, and stroll through the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores, where local farmers sell fresh produce, exotic flowers, and the island’s famous wine.

There's more than meets the eye in Savona, a Northwest Italy port city many cruise ship passengers are lucky enough to find themselves in. The giant Fortezza del Priamàr looms over the water, providing a unique welcome. Be sure to stroll through the city's genteel, impressive medieval center, visit the beautiful Savona Cathedral and see marvelous artistic works from centuries past at the Ceramics Museum.

El Calafate, a small town in southern Patagonia, serves as the main gateway to one of Argentina’s most spectacular natural wonders, the Los Glaciares National Park. Sitting on the shores of Lake Argentino, El Calafate was once a quiet outpost known mainly for sheep farming and the hardy calafate berry. Today, it attracts travelers from around the world who come to witness massive ice formations and the shifting blue walls of nearby glaciers.

Guatemala is a country where ancient history and living tradition meet in unexpected ways. The ruins of Tikal, once a major center of the Maya civilization, rise from the dense Petén jungle. Visitors can climb stone temples that pierce the forest canopy and listen for howler monkeys echoing through the trees. Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains over 3,000 structures and still holds secrets under layers of earth and vegetation.