Akita sits in the northern part of Japan’s Tōhoku region and offers travelers experiences rooted in long-held traditions, lively festivals, and scenic valleys. Its capital city blends seasonal appeal with cultural offerings, from Senshu Park, once the site of Kubota Castle, where cherry blossoms and lotuses draw locals and visitors alike, to the Akita Museum of Art, a striking building designed by famed architect Tadao Ando that displays works including pieces by Tsuguharu Foujita.

Ashland is a small city in southern Oregon, set in the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains near the California border. The community is known for its tree-lined streets, historic downtown, Lithia Park, and access to surrounding mountain landscapes. Ashland’s compact center contains independent shops, restaurants, galleries, and historic buildings, while Ashland Creek runs through the city and into the park.

Located on Ecuador's central coast, Manta is a port city frequented by many South American cruises. Manta is known for its delectable seafood and variety of pleasant beaches.

If it wasn't for Paris, Ghent would be medieval Europe's largest city. Steeped in history both rebellious and industrious, it sits at the junction of the Leie and Scheldt rivers and was once the site of armed battles by its townsfolk, who raged against heavy taxes and restricted civil liberties.

France’s Conflans-Sainte-Honorine sits quietly at the meeting point of the Seine and Oise rivers.