Albania offers travelers a surprising and diverse experience shaped by centuries of influence. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins set against a lagoon. In Berat and Gjirokastër stone houses stack along steep hillsides, giving visitors the sense of walking through a living museum. These towns offer an authentic window into daily Albanian life.

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.

Dorset, a picturesque county on England’s southern coast, is a haven for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and seaside wanderers alike. Known for its rolling hills, sandy beaches, and charming towns, Dorset offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. The county is home to part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic cliffs and fossil-rich beaches.

Nestled in the heart of Saxon Switzerland, Bad Schandau, Germany, is a picturesque spa town that enchants visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, historic charm, and wellness offerings. Set along the banks of the Elbe River and surrounded by the towering sandstone cliffs of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Bad Schandau serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Saxon Switzerland National Park.

Finland offers an unforgettable travel experience with its blend of striking contrasts: icy winters and sunlit summer nights, centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge design. In Helsinki, visitors can stroll through the neoclassical Senate Square, stop by the contemporary Amos Rex art museum, and hop on a ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built across six islands.