Santa Maria is a city on California’s Central Coast, located between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. The area is known for its agricultural industry, coastal access, and long connection to ranching culture.

A popular cruise line port, Portoferraio is a spectacular spot on the Italian coast and principal town of Elba Island.

Khiva, located in western Uzbekistan’s Khorezm region, is one of Central Asia’s most evocative Silk Road cities. Its walled inner city, known as the Itchan Kala, has preserved a remarkable collection of mud-brick architecture, minarets, mosques, and madrasahs that reflect centuries of Islamic culture and trade. Khiva served as a thriving trading hub and political center, linking merchants and scholars across the desert routes of the region.

Guadeloupe's major center is Pointe-à-Pitre, a conglomeration of old and new buildings clustered around the bustling harborside market. Pointe-a-Pitre is Gudeloupe's most popular city--explore the beaches of Grand-Terre and the French fort ruins and volcanic mountaintop of Basse-Terre.

Costa Rica is a country that has built its identity around both natural preservation and cultural vibrancy. Known for its stable democracy and emphasis on sustainability, it has become a global leader in eco-tourism.