Ankara, the capital of Turkey, sits on the Anatolian plateau and reflects the country’s layered history more quietly than Istanbul, yet with equal depth.

Nazaré, set along Portugal’s wild Atlantic coast, is a fishing town transformed into one of the world’s most dramatic surf destinations. Its identity is deeply tied to the sea, both in its centuries-old maritime traditions and in the awe-inspiring waves that now draw visitors from around the globe.

Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation in the Caribbean, is celebrated for its 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Together, they offer a balance of culture, heritage, and natural splendor.

One of the four islands that make up the British Virgin Islands, Jost van Dyke is a Caribbean paradise known for its white sand beaches, turquoise sea pools, and marinas filled with yachts.

Aegina, one of the Saronic Islands of Greece, is a short ferry ride from Athens yet feels far removed from the capital’s energy. Known since antiquity as a thriving maritime and cultural center, the island still preserves echoes of its past in archaeological sites and traditional villages.