Galle, a coastal city in southern Sri Lanka, is a place where history and the sea are inseparably linked. Once a vital port on the spice trade routes, Galle reached its peak under Dutch colonial rule in the 17th century, when the massive Galle Fort was built.

A city in perpetual forward motion, Abu Dhabi greets visitors with gleaming skyscrapers and opulent Islamic architecture. There is much to see here, from the recently opened Louvre Abu Dhabi to the gigantic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with its white marble splendor. Beach life and turquoise waters can be found on Saadiyat Island, Al Bateen and Corniche Beach.

Tangalle is a coastal town in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, set around one of the island’s larger natural bays. Its shoreline is divided into a series of sandy beaches and smaller coves, including Medaketiya, Goyambokka, Pallikkudawa, and Medilla. Tangalle remains an important fishing port, while tourism has developed around its beaches, seafood restaurants, and small hotels.

Abha, the capital of Saudi Arabia’s Asir Province, is a scenic mountain city set nearly 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level in the Sarawat Mountains. Known for its mild climate, lush green hills, and misty peaks, it stands in striking contrast to the country’s desert landscapes.

Pendleton, Oregon, sits in the heart of the high desert region, where wide open skies meet rolling wheat fields and the rugged Blue Mountains. The city is widely recognized for its rich history in ranching, railroads, and wool production, which visitors can explore through preserved buildings and museums. Downtown Pendleton features brick storefronts, murals, and sculptures that reflect the city’s connection to both the frontier and the railroad era.