The Gobi Desert, spanning across northern China and southern Mongolia, is one of the world’s most iconic and mysterious landscapes. Known for its vast stretches of arid plains, towering sand dunes, and rugged mountains, the Gobi offers a stark, breathtaking beauty that has captivated explorers and travelers for centuries.

Bagamoyo is a historic coastal town in Tanzania’s Pwani Region, facing the Indian Ocean north of Dar es Salaam. Its old town contains Swahili, Arab, and German-era buildings, while the shoreline remains connected to fishing and dhow construction. Bagamoyo developed as an important port and inland caravan terminus, linking the coast with trading routes across the interior.

Originating as a tiny fishing village in 1038, modern Kehl has become an important link between Germany and France. Rhine River cruises most often use Kehl as their gateway to the much larger and better-known Strasbourg. The savvy traveler, though, might choose to skip the jaunt across the river and enjoy many similar sights, shopping and cuisine as those offered in the teeming French city.

Raglan, on New Zealand’s North Island, is a coastal town that has earned international renown for its surf culture while retaining a bohemian, community-centered spirit.

Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, offers a captivating mix of Viking and medieval history, with landmarks like the Waterford Treasures museums and the House of Waterford Crystal showcasing its rich heritage and craftsmanship. Beyond its history, Waterford boasts stunning coastal beauty, especially along the UNESCO-listed Copper Coast, where dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and charming villages invite exploration.