Lukla, a mountain town perched at 2,860 meters in eastern Nepal, is best known as the gateway to the Everest region. The town is home to Tenzing-Hillary Airport, one of the world’s most thrilling landing strips, named after the legendary climbers who first reached Everest’s summit in 1953. The short, sloped runway hugs the mountain, offering a once-in-a-lifetime arrival that travelers remember long after their journey ends.

Playa del Carmen, located along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, offers more than just soft beaches and turquoise waters. Once a quiet fishing village, the town has grown into a lively hub where Mayan history meets a modern beachside lifestyle. Visitors walking along Quinta Avenida will find artisan shops, street performers, and cafes offering everything from espresso to tacos al pastor. This area becomes especially active in the evenings when live music spills out from local venues.

Riyadh blends stories from centuries with modern splendor. At its core stands Al Masmak Fortress, built of clay and mud-brick in the 19th century. It was the site that set the stage for the unification of Saudi Arabia. Today, it’s a museum that preserves weapons, historical displays, and accounts of that pivotal moment. Adjacent to the fortress, the Souq Al-Zal offers spices, traditional jewelry, and handmade crafts, connecting visitors to the city’s past through its alleyways.

San Antonio is a city where centuries-old missions, lively markets, and a strong sense of place come together in unexpected ways. At the heart of it all is the Alamo, the former Spanish mission that became a symbol of Texas independence after the pivotal 1836 battle. Beyond its landmarks, San Antonio thrives through its neighborhoods. The River Walk weaves through downtown, lined with restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Portofino, Italy, is a jewel on the Italian Riviera, famed for its colorful buildings, glamorous yachts, and charming harbor. This picturesque fishing village, with its pastel-colored houses that cascade down to the emerald-green waters, exudes a quaint yet luxurious atmosphere. The Piazzetta, the heart of Portofino, is a lively square where visitors can sip an espresso or enjoy fresh seafood while watching the elegant boats bobbing gently in the harbor.