The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven sovereign sheikhdoms, formed when the British withdrew from the Gulf in 1971. Travel agents are beginning to promote it as that much hyped 'land of contrasts'.

Laos, often called the "Land of a Million Elephants," is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia that beckons travelers with its serene landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual heritage. Nestled between more prominent neighbors, Laos offers an unspoiled, off-the-beaten-path experience. The charming city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination where colonial architecture meets traditional Laotian temples.

Intended by Henry II, Duke of Bavaria to be the "second Rome", Bamberg is a gem of a UNESCO World Heritage site! The medieval layout of the city is still very well preserved, including the Altes Rathaus, which occupies an island in the Regnitz reached by arched bridges.

Nafplion, a picturesque coastal town in the Peloponnese, is often hailed as one of Greece's most charming and romantic destinations. As the first capital of modern Greece, Nafplion boasts a rich history, evident in its well-preserved neoclassical buildings, Venetian fortresses, and Ottoman influences.

Regensburg, Germany’s medieval gem, will transport you to a bygone era. The site of both Celtic and Roman settlements, Regensburg flourished in the Middle Ages.