Antigua and Barbuda are located in the middle of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean. Antigua, the largest of the British Leeward Islands, is about 14 miles long and 11 miles wide, encompassing 108 square miles. Barbuda, a flat coral island with an area of only 68 square miles, lies approximately 30 miles to the north. The population is approximately 68,000 and its capital is St. John's on Antigua.
Its legacy as the former imperial capital of Vietnam is just one of many reasons to visit Hue. For more than a century, the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945) ruled from the Forbidden Purple City, the innermost enclosure of the citadel. Today, this complex is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and draws millions of visitors each year.
Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is known for its lush landscapes, winding rivers, and rich Buddhist culture. The Mekong River flows along much of the country’s western border, offering both vital transportation routes and scenic vistas. Rolling hills, dense forests, and limestone karsts provide opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring remote villages.
Originating as a tiny fishing village in 1038, modern Kehl has become an important link between Germany and France. Rhine River cruises most often use Kehl as their gateway to the much larger and better-known Strasbourg. The savvy traveler, though, might choose to skip the jaunt across the river and enjoy many similar sights, shopping and cuisine as those offered in the teeming French city.