Massachusetts, a state steeped in American history and vibrant culture, offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences.

Seen from the train, Durham presents a magnificent sight, with cathedral and castle perched atop a bluff enclosed by a loop of the River Wera, and linked to the suburbs by a series of sturdy bridges.

Nestled along the south bank of the Danube, this historical Austrian city bursts with charm. A favorite stop on European river cruises, the city's most famous attraction is Melk Abbey, which dates back to the 11th century. The original Benedictine structure was lost to fires and foreign invasion, then rebuilt during the 18th century in lavish Baroque style, including a library and inner church covered in magnificent frescoes and gilded fixtures.

Sri Lanka is an island republic in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of India. Sri Lanka is separated from India by the Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar. The capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayavardhanapura (Kotte); and Colombo is the largest city. Sri Lanka's coast is indented by lagoons and inlets.

Death Valley, California, is a land of extremes that captures the imagination with its striking desert landscapes and surreal beauty. Located in the Mojave Desert, it is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States. Visitors are drawn to its iconic features, such as the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin, which at 282 feet below sea level, mark the lowest point in North America.