Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, is a city rich in history and full of surprises for travelers seeking a blend of culture, architecture, and natural beauty. As you wander the tree-lined boulevards, you’ll discover the city’s intriguing mix of Soviet-era buildings, elegant Orthodox churches, and modern structures.

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.

Dambulla, situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is best known for its rock temple complex that has been in use for over two thousand years. The Dambulla Cave Temple, also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is made up of five caves carved into a granite outcrop, filled with over 150 Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings. These caves were first used by King Valagamba in the 1st century BCE as a refuge during exile, and later transformed into a sacred site.

The third largest city in Turkey, a cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, during the International Arts Festival (June/July) and the international Fair (August/September), Izmir bursts with an added vibrancy.

Beijing, the capital of China, is a city where history and modern life intersect on a grand scale. Ancient landmarks like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven reflect centuries of imperial heritage, while the Great Wall lies just outside the city, offering views of one of the most famous engineering feats in the world.