Libya, located in North Africa along the Mediterranean coast, is a country of vast deserts, ancient history, and dramatic landscapes. Much of its terrain is dominated by the Sahara Desert, with sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and oases shaping life across the country.
The next boom city in China. It's already been pegged. Xiamen, China, is the closest point on the mainland to Taiwan, and there is a great deal of investment flowing into the city. You'll enjoy the city mainly for its colonial mansions, twisting streets, turn-of-the-century Latin quarters, and balmy breezes sweeping across its palm-fringed beaches.
Vaavu Atoll lies south of Malé and is known for its relatively small population, numerous uninhabited islands, clear lagoons, and extensive coral reefs. Felidhoo is the administrative capital, while Thinadhoo, Keyodhoo, and Fulidhoo are among the better-known inhabited islands. The atoll has a quieter character than the more developed areas closer to the capital, with guesthouses, fishing communities, and resorts spread across separate islands.
The capital of Saint Maarten, the Dutch side of this two nation island, Philipsburg is located on the isthmus between Groot Baai (Great Bay) and the Salt Pond. Founded in 1733 as a free port, the city is now the home to outstanding shopping, casinos, and a variety of hotels and resorts, including nearby Mullet Bay Resort and Golf Club.
Pendleton, Oregon, sits in the heart of the high desert region, where wide open skies meet rolling wheat fields and the rugged Blue Mountains. The city is widely recognized for its rich history in ranching, railroads, and wool production, which visitors can explore through preserved buildings and museums. Downtown Pendleton features brick storefronts, murals, and sculptures that reflect the city’s connection to both the frontier and the railroad era.
The capital, 450-year-old Asuncion ("Mother of Cities") merits a visit of unhurried nights - that way, you'll have time to sit in the main square and people-watch. The shopping in this grand city of 729,000 is the finest the country offers, and the cathedral and archaeological museum are both highlights. The governmental architecture is interesting; don't miss the Congressional Palace, Customs House and Government Palace (in the style of the Louvre). For an unofficial tour of the city, ride one of the turn-of-the-century trolleys to the end of the line and back -- you'll learn a lot more about how the people live than you would on one of the more official tours. There are some enjoyable parks, and the national cemetery is a local oddity: Its tombs, in a assortment of architectural styles, are laid out like a miniature city. Be sure also to take a cruise on the Paraguay River; this scenic three-hour trip is really relaxing.
Other Popular Destinations in Paraguay
Areguá
Just 30 kilometers from Asunción, Areguá welcomes visitors with cobbled streets, colonial facades, and a creative energy that has earned it the title of Paraguay’s “City of Arts.” Known for its thriving artist community and traditional crafts, Areguá is perched on the edge of Lake Ypacaraí and framed by rolling hills and red clay cliffs. Whether you're arriving for the annual strawberry fair or simply passing through on a weekend escape, Areguá invites slow walks, open studios, and conversation.