Gokyo is a small settlement high in Nepal’s Khumbu region, set beside a chain of turquoise glacial lakes beneath the Himalaya. Its significance is closely tied to trans-Himalayan trade routes and to Sherpa culture, which has adapted over generations to life at extreme altitude.
Apia, the lively capital of Samoa, sits on the north coast of Upolu island and blends the island’s rich traditions with a laid-back charm that’s hard to miss. Once a small village, Apia has grown into a central hub where local culture, commerce, and history meet. From bustling markets to quiet waterfronts, Apia offers visitors a chance to experience Samoa’s rhythm at their own pace.
Lomé, the capital city of Togo, sits along the Gulf of Guinea and serves as both the political and cultural heart of the country. Lomé’s coastline features beaches where locals gather and where visitors can enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Located on the west bank of the Nile, Dendera is home to the famous Dendera Temple Complex, one of the best-preserved ancient Egyptian temples. The Temple of Hathor features impressive reliefs and intricate carvings that draw visitors interested in Egyptology and ancient history.
A charming city nestled on the banks of the Rhine, Mainz, Germany lies southwest of Frankfurt and is replete with historic buildings and famous museums. The city's Altstadt district meets the river's edge and boasts a variety of beautiful and fascinating landmarks. Birthplace of famous printer Johannes Gutenberg, Mainz's most notable attraction includes the highly-revered Gutenberg Museum, home to the iconic Gutenberg Bibles and the printing press of Gutenberg's own invention. The city's other museums are well worth a visit, including the Natural History Museum of Mainz, the Museum of Ancient Seafaring, and the Mainzer Fastnachtsmuseum. Marvel at the vibrant stained glass windows of nearby St. Stephan's Church, or explore the Mainz's impressive fortresses, including the Holzturm Tower and the Mainz Citadel. A quick trek up the city's verdant hills will lead you to the ruins of an ancient Roman theatre.