A lesser-known river port in the Mekong Delta, Sa Dec was once the capital of Dong Thap province of southern Vietnam. Today, it is best known for its flower gardens and authentic bustling market. The city is also famous as the setting for French writer Marguerite Duras' 1984 novel, The Lover, and its 1991 film adaptation of the same name.

Swakopmund, Namibia, is a charming coastal city that merges German colonial history with the rugged beauty of the Namib Desert. Founded in 1892, Swakopmund retains its old-world charm through well-preserved architecture, such as the striking Swakopmund Lighthouse and the historic Jetty. This coastal gem offers a unique combination of beachside relaxation and adventurous desert exploration, making it an alluring destination for diverse interests.

Cairns is the majestic entrance to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This warm, tropical destination is located in Far North Queensland. Must-see attractions in Cairns include the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which educates tourists about indigenous peoples, and restaurant and bar-dotted Cairns Esplanade, which has a lagoon for swimming.

On the Nile's east bank sits Luxor, a onetime stronghold for Egyptian pharaohs. Key sites include Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the Valley of the Kings.

Located on the southern coast of Norway, Kristiansand is a charming port city and a favorite summer destination for locals and tourists alike. Highlights of this coastal gem include the Christiansholm Fortress, the Kristiansand Zoo, the Kristiansand Cathedral, Gimle Gård, and the Fiskebrygga wharf.