Tonga is distinctly different to its neighboring island nations. This Polynesian kingdom, made up of 170 islands, carries a proud history that dates back over 3,000 years. On the main island of Tongatapu, travelers can explore ancient stone structures like the Haʻamonga ʻa Maui Trilithon—sometimes called the Stonehenge of the Pacific. Royal tombs in Lapaha offer a glimpse into the lineage of Tonga’s kings, while village life remains guided by customs that have changed little over centuries.

Symi, a charming island in the Dodecanese, Greece, offers a picturesque escape with its striking neoclassical architecture and vibrant Mediterranean colors. The town of Symi, a designated protected cultural heritage site, is renowned for its beautifully preserved pastel-colored mansions that line the harbor.

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

This gorgeous, breezy island is a lively paradise without equal. A celebratory atmosphere will be found here, from dance clubs and DJs to summer tourists simply reveling in the good life.

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, where ancient temples stand alongside colonial-era architecture and modern skyscrapers. Originally known as Madras, the city grew around Fort St. George, built by the British East India Company in 1644. One of Chennai’s most well-known features is Marina Beach, which stretches for over 13 kilometers and is among the longest urban beaches in the world.