Istanbul is a city built on layers of empire. Spanning two continents, it was once the capital of three major empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Visitors walking through the Sultanahmet district can witness this timeline firsthand, from the Roman-era Hippodrome to the Byzantine mosaics of Hagia Sophia, and the towering minarets of the Blue Mosque. At nearby Topkapi Palace, rooms still display the jeweled swords, ceremonial robes, and handwritten Qurans once used by Ottoman sultans.

Yucatán, a Mexican state, is popular for its Gulf of Mexico beach areas and spectacular Mayan ruins. It is bordered by the states of Campeche and Quintana Roo.

Ayutthaya, located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, Thailand, was the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom from the 14th to the 18th century. Its ruins, set among rivers and canals, reveal a once-thriving city that was a hub of trade, politics, and culture, linking Southeast Asia with China, India, and Europe.

The capital of Ontario and Canada's largest city, Toronto is a vibrant destination on the banks of Lake Ontario. Highlights of this striking cultural capital include the looming CN Tower (featuring a revolving restaurant), Casa Loma, Toronto Island Park, Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley's Aquarium of Canada.

Massachusetts, a state steeped in American history and vibrant culture, offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences. Begin your journey in Boston, the state capital, where history comes alive along the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile route takes you through pivotal sites such as the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church, where the famous signal lanterns were hung during the American Revolution.