Tucked between Jordan's sandstone cliffs in the southwestern desert, Petra was carved directly into rose-colored rock more than 2,000 years ago. Visitors approaching through the narrow gorge known as the Siq are rewarded with their first glimpse of Al-Khazneh, the Treasury, a towering facade that seems to appear from another world.

Nestled in Kenya's Rift Valley, Nakuru is a city that captivates with its stunning natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. The city is renowned for Lake Nakuru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary flocks of flamingos that once numbered in the millions. Although flamingo populations fluctuate, the lake remains a sanctuary for other bird species and wildlife, including black and white rhinos, giraffes, and lions.

Southampton is a city shaped by the sea. Located on the southern coast of England, it has been a key maritime port for centuries. In 1912, the RMS Titanic set sail from its docks, and today, the SeaCity Museum tells the story through the lives of local residents connected to the voyage. The medieval city walls, which are some of the best-preserved in England, still stand, offering a walk through time with views of old merchant houses, towers, and hidden vaults once used to store wine and wool.

Originating as a tiny fishing village in 1038, modern Kehl has become an important link between Germany and France. Rhine River cruises most often use Kehl as their gateway to the much larger and better-known Strasbourg. The savvy traveler, though, might choose to skip the jaunt across the river and enjoy many similar sights, shopping and cuisine as those offered in the teeming French city.

Mijas, perched on the hillside above the Costa del Sol, blends centuries of Andalusian tradition with views that stretch across the Mediterranean. The whitewashed buildings of Mijas Pueblo reflect sunlight from narrow cobbled streets that wind through small plazas, each with its own fountain, chapel, or overlook. The town’s layout still follows Moorish-era planning, and remnants of the old wall (La Muralla) offer shaded walks lined with native plants and panoramic views over the coast.