Zacatecas, built into the slopes of a narrow ravine in north-central Mexico, is a city with a deep mining past and a striking skyline. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its pink cantera stone buildings, narrow alleys, and impressive baroque facades. The Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas, completed in 1752, stands as one of the most detailed examples of Mexican baroque architecture, with hundreds of carved figures covering its sandstone exterior.

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a city brimming with history, culture, and modern vibrancy. At the heart of its historic charm stands the Cardiff Castle, a magnificent structure that dates back to Roman times and has been a centerpiece of Welsh history for centuries. Explore the castle’s stunning medieval architecture and lavish interiors, or take a walk around the castle grounds, which offer picturesque views of the city skyline.

Bran, a small village nestled in the Carpathian Mountains of central Romania, is best known for its medieval fortress commonly referred to as “Dracula’s Castle.” While the connection to Bram Stoker’s fictional character is loose at best, Bran Castle continues to draw travelers with its striking towers, stone walls, and position on a rocky cliff. Originally built in the 14th century to defend against invading forces, the castle has passed through royal hands, most notably Queen Marie of Romania.

Ancient history comes alive in Athens, the capital of Greece. Gaze in wonder at the Acropolis and its iconic crown, the Parthenon. Take a deeper dive into the past and visit both the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, which house fascinating artifacts from this ancient city.

Western Samoa, a stunning island nation in the South Pacific, invites travelers with its rich cultural traditions and breathtaking landscapes—stunning rainforests, towering waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Made up of two main islands, Upolu and Savaii, along with seven smaller islands, Western Samoa is a vibrant hub of Polynesian culture.