Leiden or Leyden, city in the western Netherlands, in Zuid-Holland (South Holland) Province, on the Old Rhine River, near The Hague. Leiden is also the site of the State University of Leiden, one of the oldest and most distinguished universities in Europe. It was the birthplace of several important Dutch painters, including Rembrandt, Jan van Goyen, and Jan Steen. During the 17th century the English settlers who became known as the Pilgrims took refuge in Leiden before leaving for North America.

One of the few fully walled cities from Roman times, this city is located south of Liverpool. Interesting shops in the town center are on the second level.

Temirtau is an industrial city in central Kazakhstan, located in the Karaganda Region on the Nura River near the Samarkand Reservoir. Its landscape combines broad steppe with the waterways and low hills of central Kazakhstan, while the city itself is strongly associated with metallurgy and heavy industry. Large industrial facilities form an important part of its skyline and local economy.

Bahrain, the only island nation in the Arabian Gulf, offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern flair. Away from the city, Bahrain’s landscape surprises many. The Tree of Life, a lone 400-year-old mesquite standing in the desert with no known water source, continues to puzzle scientists and inspire travelers.

Rovaniemi, located just a few kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, is widely recognized as the official hometown of Santa Claus. From late August through early April, the Northern Lights are visible on clear nights, and several local guides offer nighttime tours to remote locations for optimal viewing. During summer, the sun doesn't set for weeks, giving travelers the rare chance to hike or kayak under a sky that stays bright at midnight.