Bastimentos Island is one of the largest islands in Panama’s Bocas del Toro archipelago, off the Caribbean coast in the country’s northwest. Much of the island remains covered by tropical forest, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal vegetation, with small communities located around sheltered bays. Bastimentos is closely associated with the Bastimentos Island National Marine Park, which protects both terrestrial and marine ecosystems around the island.
Koh Kood, also spelled Koh Kut, is an island in Trat Province near Thailand’s eastern maritime border with Cambodia. It is the fourth-largest island in Thailand and the southernmost major island in the Koh Chang group. Much of its landscape consists of forested hills, coconut and fruit plantations, streams, and sandy beaches along the Gulf of Thailand.
Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, showcases the country’s contrasting landscapes and deep-rooted history. Although much of the city was rebuilt after World War II, traces of its Roman and Ottoman past still remain. Visitors can explore the ruins of Doclea, a Roman settlement just outside the city, where surviving columns and mosaics give a glimpse into life nearly two millennia ago.
Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements.
Pontevedra is a historic city in Galicia, in northwestern Spain, set along the Lérez River near the Atlantic coast. It is known for its well-preserved old town and a layout that favors pedestrians, giving the center a calm and accessible feel.
Photo Credit: Photo by Shefaali rafeeq on Unsplash
Travelers on the Arabian Sea often find themselves in Muscat, on the Gulf of Oman. This port capital is situated between ocean and mountains, and boasts lovely beaches, great diving sites (watch for turtles!), 16th-century forts, and the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which can hold 20,000 people. To get a dose of Omani culture, Bait Al Zubair Museum holds local artifacts, while Royal Opera House Muscat is a center of performing arts. Additionally, you can shop for enticing goods at Mutrah Souq, a famous bazaar.
Other Popular Destinations in Oman
Salalah
Salalah stands out with its rare blend of desert and tropical appeal. Unlike much of the Arabian Peninsula, this coastal city is transformed by the seasonal Khareef (monsoon), turning the landscape lush and green between June and September.
Nizwa
In the heart of Oman lies Nizwa, a city once considered the country’s capital and a hub of learning and trade. Its iconic round fort, built in the 17th century, remains one of Oman’s most visited landmarks.