In the Indian Ocean are the Maldives, 1190 tiny islands that Marco Polo described as the "flower of the Indies." The description still fits. An independent republic where English is widely spoken, the Maldives are a true unspoiled tropical paradise.

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s premier tourist route, offering a breathtaking journey through some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. The route typically starts in Reykjavik and circles through Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. At Þingvellir, visitors can stand where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and explore the site of the world’s oldest parliament, established in 930 AD.

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Chamonix is a captivating destination renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. As the gateway to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, Chamonix is a haven for mountaineers, hikers, and skiers. The Aiguille du Midi cable car takes visitors up to 3,842 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

The capital city of the Dominican Republic is rich in history and beauty, boasting 16th-century Spanish architecture and the oldest cathedral in the Americas. The narrow streets of the old colonial city are a testament to the complex mixture of forces that contributed to the construction of the first European city in the Western Hemisphere.

Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a country of striking contrasts and vibrant resilience. Its capital, Kigali, is one of Africa’s cleanest and most organized cities, offering visitors a glimpse into a modern, forward-looking society. Just outside the city, the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza showcases traditional royal architecture, complete with a replica of a royal hut and long-horned Inyambo cattle once bred for ceremonial parades.