Nestled in the mountains just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone has long been a retreat for travelers seeking both quiet and culture. Once a crucial checkpoint on the historic Tōkaidō road between Edo and Kyoto, Hakone is still shaped by centuries of history. The reconstructed Hakone Sekisho (Hakone Checkpoint) offers a glimpse into the Edo Period, when travelers were inspected by samurai guards before continuing on their journey.

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.

Providence, Rhode Island blends deep colonial roots with a strong creative pulse. Founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, the city became known for its dedication to religious freedom and independent thought. Walking along Benefit Street, visitors pass rows of 18th- and 19th-century homes, many of which are impeccably preserved and marked with historical plaques. The Rhode Island State House, with one of the world’s largest self-supported marble domes, towers over the downtown area and offers public

Selcuk, a small town in western Turkey’s İzmir Province, is one of the country’s richest destinations for history lovers. It sits at the foot of the ancient city of Ephesus, once one of the great cities of the classical world and home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Replete with windmills and old-world charm, the village of Kinderdijk lies east of Rotterdam on the Lek River and is a popular stop for European river cruises. Home to the largest concentration of old windmills in the Netherlands, Kinderdijk was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.