Fujairah stands apart among the emirates as the only one on the UAE’s eastern shore, where waves roll in from the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains rise sharply behind the city. Life here moves between sea and mountain, where coastal breeze meets rugged terrain, and echoes of ancient trade routes still shape the rhythm of settlements.

Apia, the lively capital of Samoa, sits on the north coast of Upolu island and blends the island’s rich traditions with a laid-back charm that’s hard to miss. Once a small village, Apia has grown into a central hub where local culture, commerce, and history meet. From bustling markets to quiet waterfronts, Apia offers visitors a chance to experience Samoa’s rhythm at their own pace.

Nara, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is a city where ancient history and serene landscapes coexist. As the country’s first permanent capital, it preserves a wealth of historic sites that reflect its significance during the Nara period.

Karatu, located in northern Tanzania between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater, is more than just a stopover for safari-goers. This highland town, surrounded by rolling farmland and volcanic hills, offers travelers a closer look at daily life in the region. The area is home to the Iraqw people, known for their terraced farming, traditional homesteads, and unique language unrelated to most other East African tongues.

The Port of Stavanger is a popular stop on the route to the Norwegian Fjords, and boasts a first-rate assortment of museums and cultural events. Old Stavanger has Europe’s best preserved wooden house settlement.