Laos, often called the "Land of a Million Elephants," is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia that beckons travelers with its serene landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual heritage. Nestled between more prominent neighbors, Laos offers an unspoiled, off-the-beaten-path experience. The charming city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination where colonial architecture meets traditional Laotian temples.

Replete with windmills and old-world charm, the village of Kinderdijk lies east of Rotterdam on the Lek River and is a popular stop for European river cruises. Home to the largest concentration of old windmills in the Netherlands, Kinderdijk was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Gleaming temples, traffic jams and bustling commerce are all part of Yangon (previously Rangoon), Myanmar's biggest city. Eat at exciting new restaurants, shop at open-air markets and gaze upon the gilded Shwedagon Pagoda. Visitors should also hop on the Yangon Circular Train, where hidden places are revealed, and guides further educate passengers about Yangon's local life and culture.

Vukovar, a city in eastern Croatia, stands as a poignant symbol of resilience and beauty. Its rich history is etched into its architecture and monuments, telling the story of its resilience during the Croatian War of Independence.

This southwestern U.S. state is best known for the Grand Canyon, which is a must-see. Other attractions include Tuscon's Saguaro National Park, golf courses in Phoenix, as well as Sedona's Cathedral Rock.