Erfoud, a desert town in eastern Morocco, is often seen as the last stop before the endless dunes of the Sahara begin. But this oasis holds more than just a convenient location. Known as the "Gateway to the Desert," Erfoud is steeped in history that predates the modern borders of Morocco. It was once a French colonial outpost, and today, its dusty streets and adobe buildings offer a glimpse into a slower, older way of life that still shapes the region’s identity.

Boppard, the pearl of the Rhein, gets its nickname from the fact that it is situated on part of a horse-shoe ben in the Rhein, resembling a pearl in an oyster shell. This bend is one of the most severe anywhere on the Rhein, so much so that the town frontage faces due north while the vineyards, one the same band face due south. The bend is also known as the "bendiest bend on the Rhein."

ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled).

Lake Powell is a large reservoir on the Colorado River, extending through northern Arizona and southern Utah within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Near the Arizona community of Page, its blue water winds through a maze of red-rock canyons, mesas, cliffs, and narrow side channels. At full pool, the lake stretches about 186 miles and has nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, although water levels vary considerably. Created by Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell is one of the largest man-made lakes in N

One of the most popular destinations on the east coast of Sardinia, Porto Rotondo offers beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities. Quite close to the famous Costa Smeralda tourist area, Porto Rotondo is also a gateway to the Tavolara Protected Marine Area - Punta Coda Cavallo.