Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Kandy is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. As the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds a unique charm that blends its colonial past with a rich, vibrant heritage. The city’s crown jewel is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a relic believed to be the tooth of the Buddha.
Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.
Oman stands among the oldest independent states in the Arab world, with evidence of human habitation stretching back over 100,000 years. Its capital, Muscat, rises gently against limestone hills with no skyscrapers to interrupt its skyline. Visitors find broad avenues lined with stunning buildings leading to landmarks like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House, both offering glimpses into Omani artistry and modern elegance.
Polonnaruwa, located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, served as the island’s capital nearly a thousand years ago. Today, it offers one of the most extensive and well-preserved archaeological sites in South Asia. Visitors can walk among the ruins of royal palaces, Buddhist monasteries, and intricately carved stone temples. One of the highlights of Polonnaruwa is the Gal Vihara, a group of colossal Buddha statues carved directly into granite.
Sirmione, a picturesque town on the southern shore of Lake Garda, Italy, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Known for its stunning peninsula that juts into the lake, Sirmione is celebrated for its charming medieval streets and spectacular lakeside views. At the heart of the town stands the Scaliger Castle, a 13th-century fortress surrounded by moats and offering panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding landscape.