Italy’s port city of Brindisi, tucked along the Adriatic coast in the Puglia region, has been a gateway to the East for over two thousand years. Once the Roman Empire’s main departure point for the Via Appia, the road to Greece and beyond, Brindisi still bears traces of its ancient past, from Roman columns to remnants of old harbors that once welcomed traders, pilgrims, and soldiers.

Londonderry, often called Derry, is a city steeped in history and charm, uniquely surrounded by remarkably well-preserved 17th-century walls. In fact, it holds the title of being the only completely walled city in all of Ireland. Strolling along these ancient ramparts offers visitors not only a glimpse into the past but also breathtaking panoramic views of the winding River Foyle and the lively streets below.

From grand castles to resplendent cathedrals, Tallinn’s Old Town neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect place to begin exploring. Enter through Viru Väravad, or Viru Gate, the former fortress whose remaining two towers beckon you into the heart of the city.

Kẻ Bàng National Park lies in central Vietnam, near the border with Laos, and is known for its vast network of limestone mountains and underground rivers. The park forms part of one of the oldest karst landscapes in Asia, shaped over millions of years into a maze of caves, cliffs, and dense forest. Among its most famous features is Sơn Đoòng Cave, recognized as the largest cave on Earth, with sections so vast that clouds can form inside and a jungle grows beneath its collapsed roof.

Elephant Island, a remote outcrop off the coast of Antarctica, is not your average travel destination. Known for its dramatic cliffs, towering glaciers, and wild, ice-laced seas, this island is both stark and unforgettable. Located 245 kilometers northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula, Elephant Island is rarely visited except by specialized expedition cruises.