Italy’s port city of Brindisi, tucked along the Adriatic coast in the Puglia region, has been a gateway to the East for over two thousand years. Once the Roman Empire’s main departure point for the Via Appia, the road to Greece and beyond, Brindisi still bears traces of its ancient past, from Roman columns to remnants of old harbors that once welcomed traders, pilgrims, and soldiers.

Jalisco, a vibrant state on Mexico’s Pacific coast, offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that span history, culture, and natural beauty. The state capital, Guadalajara, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere

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).

Santa Cruz de La Palma is the capital of the island of La Palma, one of the seven Canary Islands. Although often forgotten in favor of the similarly named Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it is a compact and colorful colonial town well worth a visit. Swimming, paragliding, and hiking and some of the most popular daytime activities, while stargazing is a favorite pastime after the sun goes down.

A charming city nestled on the banks of the Rhine, Mainz, Germany lies southwest of Frankfurt and is replete with historic buildings and famous museums. The city's Altstadt district meets the river's edge and boasts a variety of beautiful and fascinating landmarks.