New York's most talked about locale, New York City, is the United States' cultural and financial hub; it has the country's major stock exchange and is the center for world news media.

ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled).

Walvis Bay, Namibia, is a coastal gem offering a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant marine life. As Namibia's main port city, it boasts a scenic waterfront and a thriving harbor. The town is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the expansive Walvis Bay Lagoon, a haven for birdwatchers. The lagoon is home to thousands of flamingos, particularly during the summer months, creating a stunning spectacle of pink against the blue waters.

Agrigento, located on the southern coast of Sicily, is a city steeped in history and renowned for its ancient Greek ruins. The crown jewel of Agrigento is the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Visitors can marvel at the remarkably preserved Temple of Concordia, which dates back to the 5th century BC and is considered one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world.

Antigua, Guatemala's prized colonial monument, is just an hour from Guatemala City, and a pleasant alternative to staying in the capital. Good walking shoes are needed for its cobblestone streets. The most spectacular time to visit is Holy Week, when processions walk on handmade sawdust carpets with beautiful floral and geometric designs.