Culture, dining and nightlife are just a few of the reasons to find yourself in sunny Brisbane. This sprawling, constantly-evolving river city is for the young and the young at heart. Shop at the outdoor markets, where you'll find fashion, crafts and produce. Beaches are the order of the day here, too, with North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island attracting hordes of sunbathers.

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.

Ganvie, often called the "Venice of Africa," is a lake village located in the heart of Lake Nokoué in southern Benin. What makes Ganvie extraordinary is that the entire village sits on stilts above the water, with wooden homes, floating markets, and schools accessible only by boat. Visitors can glide through narrow canals in pirogues, experiencing firsthand a way of life shaped entirely by water.

Montenegro, set along the Adriatic Sea, draws travelers with its dramatic landscapes and layered history. The Bay of Kotor, often mistaken for a fjord, is actually a submerged river canyon surrounded by steep cliffs and medieval towns. Kotor itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is enclosed by ancient fortifications that visitors can climb for panoramic views stretching from terracotta rooftops to the sea.

Charleston, South Carolina, is a gem of Southern charm and history, offering an immersive travel experience in a beautifully preserved city. Known for its cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture, Charleston's historic district is a living museum where visitors can stroll past colorful row houses and elegant mansions. Key landmarks include the Battery and Rainbow Row, a series of pastel-colored houses that are among the city's most photographed sites.