Barca d'Alva sits quietly along the Douro River, right at Portugal’s eastern border with Spain. Once the final stop on the historic Douro railway line, this riverside village remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. The surrounding landscape filled with terraced vineyards, olive groves, and almond trees form part of the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Wine Region.

Gothenburg, Sweden’s vibrant west coast gem, offers a perfect blend of maritime charm, innovative design, and sustainable living. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and classic Nordic architecture, Gothenburg invites visitors to explore its rich history and modern flair. The city’s heart is anchored by the famous Kungsportsavenyen (Avenyn), a grand boulevard lined with cafes, boutiques, and cultural landmarks like the Gothenburg Museum of Art.

Pokhara, nestled in central Nepal, sits at the base of the Annapurna mountain range and has long served as both a rest stop for trekkers and a destination in its own right. What sets Pokhara apart is the rare opportunity to see 8,000-meter peaks like Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna I reflected in the calm waters of Phewa Lake. Early mornings are often the clearest, with boat rides offering peaceful views of snow-capped peaks mirrored in the lake.

Among the stunningly snow-capped Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a charming ski resort town in Switzerland. Situated near the iconic Matterhorn peak, Zermat is the perfect destination for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.

Formally called Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Ocean Cay is a private island only accessible to MSC Cruises guests. Activities include beachside lounging, snorkeling, paddle boarding, lighthouse climbing, dining, shopping and more.