Pondicherry is a coastal town in southern India that still carries traces of its French colonial past. The French Quarter, or White Town, is filled with mustard-yellow buildings, iron-laced balconies, and streets with French names. Visitors can explore this area on foot or by bicycle, stopping at spots like the 18th-century Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, built in Greco-Roman style, or the French Consulate, which continues to operate from a colonial-era building.

Aït Benhaddou, located in southern Morocco along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, is one of the country’s most iconic historic sites. This fortified village, or ksar, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired for its striking earthen clay architecture that rises dramatically from the desert landscape.

Iceland, a land of extraordinary contrasts and natural wonders, offers an experience unlike any other. Its dramatic landscapes are defined by active volcanoes, geysers, and sprawling glaciers, all set against a backdrop of ethereal Northern Lights. A must-see is the Golden Circle, a popular route encompassing the Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal area of Geysir, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.

Jeonju-si, in South Korea’s North Jeolla Province, is widely associated with preservation rather than spectacle. The city’s identity is closely tied to its role as a former provincial capital during the Joseon Dynasty and as the birthplace of the royal Yi family.

Osijek, located in the eastern part of Croatia, is a city that blends rich history, vibrant culture, and a lively atmosphere. Situated along the banks of the Drava River, Osijek is the fourth-largest city in the country and the cultural and economic center of the Slavonia region.