Chania, the jewel of western Crete, is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a captivating experience. Known for its Venetian harbor, Chania boasts a unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. The harbor's old lighthouse, built in the 16th century by the Venetians, stands as a timeless sentinel over the bustling waterfront, which is lined with colorful buildings, inviting cafes, and vibrant tavernas.

Whether exploring volcanic trails or relaxing in seaside hot springs, Hachijo Jima provides an unforgettable island experience that feels worlds away from Japan’s major cities.

Tikal is one of the most extraordinary ancient cities in Guatemala, hidden deep in the Petén region’s tropical forests. Once called Yax Mutal by its Maya builders, these ruins reveal thousands of years of history in carved stone stelae and towering limestone structures, some of which rise more than 60 meters above the jungle floor. Today, visitors can walk among the Great Plaza and gaze up at the Temple of the Great Jaguar and the Temple of the Masks, reminders of the city’s long legacy.

Mauritania, stretching between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sahara Desert, offers travelers a journey through wide-open landscapes and centuries of history. Its terrain is marked by shifting sand dunes, ancient caravan towns, and stretches of untouched coastline.

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, sits at the foot of the Ala-Too Mountains and serves as the country’s political, cultural, and economic center. The city is known for its wide tree-lined streets, Soviet-era architecture, and public squares.