Greece is a country where layers of history sit side by side with everyday life. In Athens, visitors can stand at the foot of the Acropolis and look up at the Parthenon, built more than 2,400 years ago, then walk a few blocks to modern cafes buzzing with conversation and music. The city’s neighborhoods, like Plaka and Monastiraki, offer both ancient ruins and small family-run shops selling handmade sandals and olive oil soap.

Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia, is a breathtaking destination that captivates travelers with its surreal landscapes and towering red sand dunes. The star attraction of Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is famous for its clay pans surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world, some reaching heights of over 300 meters.

Samarkand is one of Central Asia’s most storied cities, famed for its role as a crossroads of culture, science, and trade along the Silk Road. The heart of the city is the Registan, a grand square framed by three ornate madrasas decorated with vivid mosaics, intricate tilework, and soaring arches.

Ivory Coast, or Côte d’Ivoire, is a West African nation celebrated for its cultural diversity, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes.

Palau, a Pacific island nation made up of over 500 islands, offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers who want to discover something both ancient and alive. Located between the Philippines and Guam, this small country is known for its otherworldly seascapes, but its appeal runs far deeper than its turquoise waters.