Lijiang sits in northwest Yunnan, shaped by its role as a trading town on routes linking Tibet, Sichuan, and Southeast Asia. It is closely associated with the Naxi people, whose language, music, and traditions remain central to local identity.

ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled).

Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra, India is now a cultural capital replete with famous landmarks and striking architecture. The city’s most prominent draw is the magnificent Taj Mahal, the iconic white marble mausoleum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by millions of people each year.

Whether exploring volcanic trails or relaxing in seaside hot springs, Hachijo Jima provides an unforgettable island experience that feels worlds away from Japan’s major cities.

The Loyalty Islands, an enchanting archipelago in New Caledonia, provide an unforgettable escape for travelers looking to experience an unspoiled side of the Pacific.