Malta’s ornate and vibrant capital, Valletta, dazzles travelers with its abundance of historical landmarks and striking architecture. This island jewel off the coast of Italy remains a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises. From central St. George’s Square, to sixteenth-century Casa Rocca Piccola, to the Siege Bell War Memorial, Valletta has no shortage of monuments detailing the city’s long history.

Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.

Seen from the train, Durham presents a magnificent sight, with cathedral and castle perched atop a bluff enclosed by a loop of the River Wera, and linked to the suburbs by a series of sturdy bridges.

Manarola, one of the most picturesque villages in Italy’s famed Cinque Terre, is a haven for travelers seeking a blend of breathtaking scenery, vibrant local culture, and authentic Italian charm. Perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Ligurian Sea, the village is known for its iconic pastel-colored houses cascading down the hillside.

Astana, officially known as Nur-Sultan, is the modern capital of Kazakhstan and a striking example of contemporary urban design in Central Asia.