Pondicherry is a coastal town in southern India that still carries traces of its French colonial past. The French Quarter, or White Town, is filled with mustard-yellow buildings, iron-laced balconies, and streets with French names. Visitors can explore this area on foot or by bicycle, stopping at spots like the 18th-century Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, built in Greco-Roman style, or the French Consulate, which continues to operate from a colonial-era building.

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has long served as a cultural and trade crossroads in the Andaman Sea. Centuries ago, it was a stopover for merchants trading tin, spices, and textiles, with influences from Chinese, Portuguese, Indian, and Malay travelers still reflected in the island’s architecture and cuisine. Inland, the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary protects rainforest habitat home to gibbons, civets, and exotic birds.

Toiny is a quiet, scenic village located on the eastern coast of Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts), known for its unspoiled natural surroundings and authentic Caribbean charm. Unlike the more developed west coast beaches, Toiny offers a serene retreat where rolling hills meet the Atlantic Ocean, and dramatic cliffs frame the coastline.

Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historical buildings. Wander through the bustling Darajani Market, where local spices, textiles, and crafts create a sensory feast.

Jekyll Island, one of Georgia’s Golden Isles, is a barrier island with a story that stretches from ancient Indigenous cultures to Gilded Age millionaires. Today, it’s a state park carefully preserved for public enjoyment, offering a quiet blend of coastal landscapes, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities. With only a limited number of commercial developments allowed, the island maintains a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere that’s hard to find on most Southeastern beaches.