Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, carries over 8,000 years of history layered into its streets. The Roman Theater, still in use today, was discovered by accident in the 1970s and now hosts operas and concerts overlooking the Rhodope Mountains. Nearby, visitors can walk the remains of a Roman stadium buried beneath the main pedestrian street, where modern shops and cafés stand above ancient foundations.
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.
Nestled in the heart of Norway's spectacular fjord region, Geiranger is a village where nature takes center stage. Set against the breathtaking Geirangerfjord, this charming destination captivates visitors with its towering cliffs, shimmering emerald waters, and dramatic waterfalls. Whether exploring by boat along the fjord’s serene waters or hiking to viewpoints like Dalsnibba, visitors are treated to unforgettable panoramic vistas that showcase the area’s raw beauty from every angle.
Algiers, Algeria’s capital, is a city where centuries of history unfold along the shores of the Mediterranean. Known as “El Bahdja,” or “The Joyful,” Algiers blends striking buildings, seaside breezes, and layered stories. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site with maze-like alleyways, Ottoman-era palaces, and hidden terraces overlooking the bay. The Grand Post Office, with its striking facade and intricate neo-Moorish details, anchors the city’s downtown.
Located on the Rhône River, Avignon is the city to which the Popes fled when leaving the corruption of Rome in the 14th century. The palace they built, 'Le Palais des Papes,' is a breathtaking must see. After touring this majestic Gothic structure, be sure to hike the Parc de Rochers des Doms for a panoramic view of Avignon, the Rhône River Valley, and the St. Bénezet Bridge.