Izamal, located in the heart of Yucatán, stands out as a city where centuries of history are layered in plain sight. Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” it combines ancient Maya ruins, Spanish colonial architecture, and modern-day Yucatecan life. One of the most striking features of Izamal is its golden-yellow buildings, painted this distinctive color in honor of Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1993.

The bayside town of Soufrière was founded by the French in 1746 and named after nearby sulphur springs. The coastal Pitons provide a scenic backdrop to the south and the island's highest peaks rise above the rainforest just a few miles inland.

A lesser-known river port in the Mekong Delta, Sa Dec was once the capital of Dong Thap province of southern Vietnam. Today, it is best known for its flower gardens and authentic bustling market. The city is also famous as the setting for French writer Marguerite Duras' 1984 novel, The Lover, and its 1991 film adaptation of the same name.

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.

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah on the island of Borneo, is a vibrant city where modern life meets wild landscapes. Overlooking the South China Sea and backed by lush rainforests and mountains, it serves as both a cultural hub and a gateway to Borneo’s extraordinary biodiversity.