Trebinje, the southernmost city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, sits just a short drive from the Adriatic coast but offers a completely different rhythm. Framed by hills and set along the Trebišnjica River, the city has a history stretching back to Roman times. The river that winds through the city is one of the longest sinking rivers in the world and often disappears underground and resurfaces in various places.

This coastal town in southwestern Namibia is known for its German colonial buildings, including the art nouveau Goerke Haus, built into the rock face on Diamond Hill. Nearby, Felsenkirche is a hilltop church with panoramic bay views stretching around to Robert Harbor. The Lüderitz Museum has displays about the town’s diamond mining past as well as local and natural history.

Pingyao, a city steeped in ancient charm, offers a remarkable glimpse into China’s rich history. This well-preserved city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its classical ancient architecture, which remains largely intact since the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through the Pingyao Ancient City Wall, a formidable structure that encircles the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

On the remote Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park unfolds as a vast stretch of rainforest meeting the Pacific Ocean. This protected area covers a large portion of the peninsula and is often described by scientists as one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. Dense jungle, quiet beaches, and winding rivers sit side by side, creating a landscape where visitors may walk from thick forest into open coastline within minutes.

Nikko lies in Tochigi, about two hours from Tokyo. Nikko is famous for the large Toshogu shrine area and the nature around the city.