Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has long served as a cultural and trade crossroads in the Andaman Sea. Centuries ago, it was a stopover for merchants trading tin, spices, and textiles, with influences from Chinese, Portuguese, Indian, and Malay travelers still reflected in the island’s architecture and cuisine. Inland, the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary protects rainforest habitat home to gibbons, civets, and exotic birds.
Jūrmala, Latvia’s famed seaside resort, stretches along 33 kilometers of white sandy beaches kissed by the Baltic Sea. Its wooden architecture, featuring colorful villas from the early 20th century, tells the story of its history as a retreat for the well-to-do during the Russian Empire. Visitors strolling the Jomas Street promenade will find a lively atmosphere filled with cafes, boutiques, and galleries, alongside peaceful spots where the sea breeze encourages relaxation.
The Dolomites, a spectacular mountain range in northern Italy, offer a captivating blend of dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventure. Renowned for their unique jagged peaks and stunning natural beauty, the Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.