Kochi (formerly Cochin), is a port city on the southwest coast of India and is a frequent stop for cruise ships. Known as the "Gateway to Kerala," Kochi's beaches, delectable seafood, expansive malls, historical sites, and museums make it a popular tourist destination.
Esztergom is one of Hungary’s oldest and most historically significant towns, located along the Danube River just an hour north of Budapest. It was the country’s royal capital during the Middle Ages and the birthplace of its first king, Saint Stephen. Today, visitors are drawn to the Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary. Its dome rises over 70 meters high and offers panoramic views of the river, the surrounding hills, and neighboring Slovakia across the Mária Valéria Bridge.
Sandakan, on the northeast coast of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, is a city where history, wildlife, and culture come together. Once a major trading port known as “Little Hong Kong” for its bustling connections to the wider world, Sandakan has retained its multicultural character, with influences from Chinese, Malay, and Indigenous communities visible in its temples, markets, and cuisine.
Kuwait City began as a modest fishing village and has evolved into a modern metropolis. The city's history is deeply rooted in its maritime heritage. The Dhow Harbour in Kuwait City offers a captivating glimpse into the nation's rich maritime past. Historically, dhows were essential for trade, fishing, and pearl diving, shaping Kuwait's economic and cultural identity. Today, the harbor remains a vibrant testament to this legacy, housing a variety of traditional wooden ships.
Samarkand is one of Central Asia’s most storied cities, famed for its role as a crossroads of culture, science, and trade along the Silk Road. The heart of the city is the Registan, a grand square framed by three ornate madrasas decorated with vivid mosaics, intricate tilework, and soaring arches.
Cut length wise by the Turkish/Greek border, the island of Cyprus leads two lives. The Turkish side is traditional and Islamic, while the Greek side is a very modern vacation destination. Limassol is Greek Cyprus's largest city. In the 12th century, it was headquarters for invading crusaders. Nearby Kourion contains an ancient Greek city with a sanctuary of Apollo overlooking the sea.