Central African Republic, republic in central Africa, bordered on the north by Chad, on the east by Sudan, on the south by Zaire and the Republic of the Congo, and on the west by Cameroon. The landlocked nation has an area of 622,436 sq. km (about 240,323 sq. mi). Bangui is the capital and largest city.

The Dordogne River flows from the mountains of Auvergne to Bordeaux through the magnificent French countryside. The valley area named for the river is full of bucolic scenery, dotted with welcoming rural villages, quaint riverside castles, and plenty of opportunities for gourmet meals in true French tradition.

Cape Town, located at the southern tip of South Africa, is one of the world’s most striking coastal cities. Towering over it is Table Mountain, a flat-topped landmark that can be reached by cable car or on foot, offering sweeping views of the city, ocean, and beyond.

Fatu Hiva, the southernmost of the Marquesas Islands, is a destination that feels like stepping back in time to a world untouched by modernity. This remote island is known for its breathtaking landscapes, where lush, verdant mountains rise dramatically from the deep blue sea.

Santa Maria is a city on California’s Central Coast, located between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. The area is known for its agricultural industry, coastal access, and long connection to ranching culture.