British influences are quite evident in Victoria, from afternoon tea times to elegant Victorian architecture. This capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island provides ample outdoor recreation, with its public parks and access to both the ocean and wilderness. Cyclists will be right at home here, as Victoria boasts a seemingly endless number of bike paths for exploring.

Karpathos is marked by the peculiar Karpathian houses, built of carved stone, full of embroidery and characteristic interior decorations. From Pigadia you may visit Kyra Panagia, a picturesque bay with a marvelous beach and a monastery of the same name. A little further, on the northern promontory of Karpathos, lies the Diafani village; on the nearby little island of Saria we see Palatia, with ruins of the ancient city of Nisyros.

This quaint town on the Rhine is the gateway to the Black Forest and lies halfway between Freiburg and Colmar. As you walk the cobblestone streets, stop to sample local schnapps made from fermented pears or cherries and the distinctive smoky ham of this region. St. Stephan's Cathedral perches on a hillside and is the exquisite centerpiece of the town.

Oman is an independent state extending along the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Oman falls naturally into three physical divisions: a narrow coastal plain, ranges of mountains and hills, and an interior plateau.

Djerba, an enchanting island off the southern coast of Tunisia, is a world of sun, sea, and history. Known as the "Island of a Hundred Mosques," Djerba’s skyline is dotted with minarets rising from whitewashed villages. The town of Houmt Souk, the island’s vibrant capital, is a delightful introduction to Djerba’s blend of cultures and traditions.