Guatemala is a country where ancient history and living tradition meet in unexpected ways. The ruins of Tikal, once a major center of the Maya civilization, rise from the dense Petén jungle. Visitors can climb stone temples that pierce the forest canopy and listen for howler monkeys echoing through the trees. Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains over 3,000 structures and still holds secrets under layers of earth and vegetation.

Kos, an enchanting island in Greece’s Dodecanese archipelago, is a gem steeped in both history and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, Kos is home to the ancient Asclepeion, a healing temple where Hippocrates taught his students. Visitors can wander through the well-preserved ruins and enjoy sweeping views over the island and the Aegean Sea.

Las Palmas (officially Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) is the capital of Gran Canaria island as well as co-capital (along with Santa Cruz de Tenerife) of the Canary Islands. It is a major cruise-ship port known for duty-free shopping and sandy beaches, including Playa de Las Canteras, considered by many to be one of the best urban beaches worldwide.

The Island of Mozambique, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historical gem nestled off the northern coast of Mozambique. This small island, which was once a pivotal trading post, boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. The island's main attraction is the Fort São Sebastião, an imposing 16th-century fortress built by the Portuguese to protect their trading interests.

Eleuthera Island, one of the gems of the Bahamas, is an enticing blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm. Known for its pink sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, this island stretches over 100 miles, offering visitors an intimate escape from the bustle of larger tourist destinations. A must-see for beach lovers is Harbour Island, just a short ferry ride away, where the famed Pink Sands Beach provides a stunning backdrop of pale rose-colored sand against the turquoise sea.