Turkmenistan is a land of striking contrasts, where vast deserts meet ancient Silk Road history. The country is dominated by the Karakum Desert, an expanse of sand and scrub that covers most of its territory, yet it is also home to oases where cities flourished as trading posts for caravans journeying between Persia, China, and beyond.

Islamic and French influences blend together in charming Casablanca, Morocco’s iconic coastal city. Frequently used as a port for Spanish and Mediterranean cruises, Casablanca lies halfway between Marrakesh and Fes and is the perfect entryway for exploring the rest of Morocco.

Derry stands on the banks of the River Foyle in Northern Ireland and is known for its intact seventeenth-century city walls, steep streets, and strong local identity.

Central African Republic, republic in central Africa, bordered on the north by Chad, on the east by Sudan, on the south by Zaire and the Republic of the Congo, and on the west by Cameroon. The landlocked nation has an area of 622,436 sq. km (about 240,323 sq. mi). Bangui is the capital and largest city.

Nestled between the pristine waters of Lake Annecy and the towering French Alps, Annecy is a charming gem in southeastern France that offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and alpine allure. Often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its network of canals that wind through the old town, Annecy captivates with its cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and flower-adorned bridges.