Mauritania, stretching between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sahara Desert, offers travelers a journey through wide-open landscapes and centuries of history. Its terrain is marked by shifting sand dunes, ancient caravan towns, and stretches of untouched coastline.

Agdz is a small town in Morocco’s Drâa Valley, positioned between the High Atlas Mountains and the long oasis corridor leading toward the Sahara. The town sits beside the Drâa River, where irrigated gardens and dense stands of date palms contrast with the surrounding dry hills. Agdz has traditionally served as a stopping point along routes crossing southern Morocco, and its location still makes it a useful base for exploring the valley.

Messina sits on the northeastern tip of Sicily, facing the narrow Strait of Messina. Its position has long made it a key port connecting the island to mainland Italy. The city is shaped by its harbor, hillside neighborhoods, and views across the water toward Calabria. Messina stands out for its role as a gateway, with active ferry routes and a layout that blends rebuilt urban areas with historic landmarks and coastal scenery.

This southern Mexican state borders Guatemala. Its mountainous highlands and dense rainforest are dotted with several Mayan archaeological sites and Spanish colonial towns.

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, the cobblestone streets line the city center along with colonial Spanish-style architecture. San Miguel de Allende is also known for its thriving art scene, cultural festivals, and some of the most inventive cuisine in Mexico! There is so much to enjoy in this lesser-known gem of North America.