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).

Set on the Adriatic Sea, Zadar, Croatia, is a major Dalmatia historical center and a tourism magnet. Walk ancient streets, see Roman ruins and enjoy white-sand beaches.

An exotic world, shimmering in lacquer light, lies just beyond the harbor. This Haiphong, gateway to the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi. Have a cyclo take you to town in the morning, just as markets come alive. You can also see the Du Hang Pagoda, a fine example of the country's traditional architecture, and the Hang Kenh House, famed for its intricate wood carvings.

Bright red Molja Lighthouse beckons you to explore Alesund, the tiny seaside town along the western fjords of Norway. A popular destination for Norwegian cruises, this coastal jewel will charm you with a colorful harbor, verdant natural beauty, and fresh seafood.

Cam Ranh is a coastal city in Khánh Hòa Province in south-central Vietnam, located around a sheltered bay along the South China Sea. The area is known for its long coastline, sandy beaches, fishing communities, and dry coastal climate. Cam Ranh Bay forms a deep natural harbor surrounded by hills and is an important maritime area.