Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast, is a lively seaside town where Afro-Caribbean culture, indigenous traditions, and tropical landscapes come together. Once a quiet fishing village, it is now known for its reggae rhythms, colorful wooden houses, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber rises above the Tauber River in Bavaria, where its medieval town center has stood largely unchanged for centuries, making it one of Germany’s most vivid windows into the past. This old walled city stretches along cobblestone streets where half-timbered houses, ancient towers, and narrow alleys invite visitors to wander and imagine life in the Middle Ages.

Shimizu, a picturesque port in Shizuoka City, offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Shimizu is known for its rich maritime history, and a culinary highlight is its fresh seafood, particularly tuna. The port boasts the highest tuna catch in Japan, making it a prime destination for sushi fans.

Heidelberg, located along the scenic banks of the Neckar River in southwestern Germany, is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. Known for its prestigious university, which is one of the oldest in Europe, the city draws visitors with its picturesque old town, medieval architecture, and vibrant academic atmosphere.

Medan is the capital of north Sumatra and the third largest city in Indonesia. It is a huge, sprawling city and a popular entry/exit point for travellers. The solid Dutch buildings of the affluent older suburbs inspire images of bloated bureaucrats and burghers from the colonial era, while jerry-built lean-tos house the bulk of its population.