Mai Chau is a rural valley in Hoa Binh Province in northern Vietnam, located several hours west of Hanoi and surrounded by limestone mountains and rice fields. The area is known for its quiet villages, elevated wooden stilt houses, and the daily life of the White Thai ethnic community.

Guayaquil, Ecuador, is a vibrant port city and a frequent starting point for cruises to the Galapagos Islands.

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.

A frequent stop for Caribbean cruises, this Central American destination will delight you with local flea markets, museums, and delicious eats.

Yamoussoukro is the political and administrative capital of Côte d’Ivoire, located in the country’s central region amid gently rolling land, cultivated fields and patches of forest.