Watamu, located on Kenya’s picturesque coast, is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Watamu is part of the Watamu Marine National Park, a protected area known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. The park is a haven for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.

Lugano, tucked into Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region, blends Mediterranean flair with Alpine elegance. The city sits on the northern shore of Lake Lugano, its pastel-colored villas and palm-lined promenades framed by surrounding mountains such as Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore.

Aït Benhaddou, located in southern Morocco along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, is one of the country’s most iconic historic sites. This fortified village, or ksar, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired for its striking earthen clay architecture that rises dramatically from the desert landscape.

The third largest city in Turkey, a cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, during the International Arts Festival (June/July) and the international Fair (August/September), Izmir bursts with an added vibrancy.

Timor-Leste, one of the world’s youngest nations, is a place where resilience and cultural richness shape everyday life. Its history is deeply marked by centuries of Portuguese colonial rule, followed by Indonesian occupation and a long struggle for independence, achieved in 2002.