Seven miles outside of historic Athens, the Greek coastal city of Piraeus lies upon the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea and is the largest passenger port in Europe, servicing nearly 20 million passengers per year.

It's the largest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, lying 40 miles south of St. Thomas and St. John. While its history is laced with tales of pirates and privateers, the island today maintains a slower, more quiet pace than its sisters to the north.

St. Helena is a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean, known for its dramatic cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and rich history. It is most famous as the place where Napoleon Bonaparte spent his final years in exile, and visitors can explore Longwood House and other historic sites that tell the story of this period.

Nuku Hiva, the largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, offers an unparalleled escape into Polynesian paradise. This rugged island is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, characterized by lush valleys, towering cliffs, and volcanic peaks.

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.