Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements.

Framed by an array of tropical flowers, "miniature" houses painted in a pastel palette will enchant you. But, a splash of watercolors is all you'll see as you zip by on a moped. It won't be long before you find the perfect spot for a beach picnic and afternoon of snorkeling.

Sukhothai, located in north-central Thailand, was once the capital of the first independent Thai kingdom in the 13th century. Today, it’s best known for the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with stone temples, lotus-filled moats, and ancient Buddha statues. The park spans over 70 square kilometers and features more than 190 ruins.

Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, is a city where history and daily life intertwine along the shores of the Atlantic. Founded in 1792 as a settlement for freed slaves from Britain and the Americas, it remains a place of cultural depth and resilience.

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.