Děčín, a picturesque city in the Czech Republic, is nestled on the banks of the Elbe River and surrounded by lush landscapes and dramatic rock formations. This charming destination is renowned for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. The centerpiece of Děčín’s architectural heritage is the Děčín Castle, which towers above the city and offers breathtaking views of the Elbe Valley.

Originating as a tiny fishing village in 1038, modern Kehl has become an important link between Germany and France. Rhine River cruises most often use Kehl as their gateway to the much larger and better-known Strasbourg. The savvy traveler, though, might choose to skip the jaunt across the river and enjoy many similar sights, shopping and cuisine as those offered in the teeming French city.

Vigo is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Galicia, Spain, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty with origins dating back to Roman times and a fascinating evolution that has transpired through the centuries.

Port Moresby sits by the Coral Sea as Papua New Guinea’s capital and shows visitors a city of contrasts where glittering new buildings rise beside traditional villages built on stilts. One such place is Hanuabada, the original Motuan village, where roofs reach above water’s edge and everyday life still unfolds in Tok Pisin and local tongue.

Swakopmund, on Namibia’s Atlantic coast, is a town where desert meets ocean in striking contrast. Founded by German colonists in the late 19th century, its streets are lined with colonial-era buildings painted in pastel colors, giving the town a distinctly European feel.