Krujë sits on a rocky hilltop above central Albania and has long been a symbol of the country’s history and independence. At Krujë Castle ancient stone walls rise above the town and offer striking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and inside the fortress visitors find the Skanderbeg Museum, where armor, documents and displays recount the life and battles of Albania’s national hero.

Dominica, known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” is a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Nestled between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, this lush island boasts a remarkable landscape of volcanic mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Dominica’s most iconic natural wonder is the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot spring in the world.

Mijas, perched on the hillside above the Costa del Sol, blends centuries of Andalusian tradition with views that stretch across the Mediterranean. The whitewashed buildings of Mijas Pueblo reflect sunlight from narrow cobbled streets that wind through small plazas, each with its own fountain, chapel, or overlook. The town’s layout still follows Moorish-era planning, and remnants of the old wall (La Muralla) offer shaded walks lined with native plants and panoramic views over the coast.

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, where ancient temples stand alongside colonial-era architecture and modern skyscrapers. Originally known as Madras, the city grew around Fort St. George, built by the British East India Company in 1644. One of Chennai’s most well-known features is Marina Beach, which stretches for over 13 kilometers and is among the longest urban beaches in the world.

Capital of Martinique, a French overseas territory, Fort-de-France is a veritable island paradise replete with striking colonial architecture, exotic flora and fauna, verdant nature parks, and sparkling beaches. Highlights of this vibrant island capital include the colorful Jardin de Balata, the cascading Fontaine Didier waterfall, and the expansive Schoelcher Library.