Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is a city of striking contrasts where centuries-old traditions meet rapid modern growth. Known as the “City of Rickshaws,” it is famous for its vibrant street life, colorful cycle rickshaws, and markets that seem to run around the clock.

In the heart of South America, Ecuador offers a compact yet astonishingly diverse experience for travelers. From the cobbled streets of Quito’s historic center to the vibrant Afro-Ecuadorian rhythms of Esmeraldas, the country pulses with stories waiting to be discovered. Just a short drive away, visitors can stand on the equator line at the “Mitad del Mundo” and participate in engaging experiments that demonstrate the planet’s gravitational quirks.

Arrowtown, New Zealand, is a quaint town steeped in gold rush history, nestled along the Arrow River in the Otago region. The town’s heritage buildings, many carefully preserved from the 19th century, offer a glimpse into its past as a thriving mining settlement.

Negombo, located just north of Colombo and minutes from Sri Lanka’s main international airport, offers a coastal town experience steeped in layered history and local life. Once a vital trading post for cinnamon during the colonial era, Negombo has seen Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence with each leaving a mark on its architecture and culture. The Dutch-era canal system, still used by fishermen and local vendors today, runs through parts of the town and can be explored by boat or bicycle.

A popular stop on river cruises down the Rhône, Tournon, France is a picturesque town south of Lyon. Despite its small size, this French ville is instantly charming. From historic buildings like the Château-Musée de Tournon and the Église Saint-Julien de Tournon, to the lush botanical splendor of the Jardin d’Eden, Tournon’s quaint beauty is guaranteed to enchant.