Nestled along the south bank of the Danube, this historical Austrian city bursts with charm. A favorite stop on European river cruises, the city's most famous attraction is Melk Abbey, which dates back to the 11th century. The original Benedictine structure was lost to fires and foreign invasion, then rebuilt during the 18th century in lavish Baroque style, including a library and inner church covered in magnificent frescoes and gilded fixtures.

Cut length wise by the Turkish/Greek border, the island of Cyprus leads two lives. The Turkish side is traditional and Islamic, while the Greek side is a very modern vacation destination.

Tan Chau, located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, is most well-known for its exclusive silk production, using local materials such as dyes made from the mac nua (Diospyros mollis) fruit.

Samarkand is one of Central Asia’s most storied cities, famed for its role as a crossroads of culture, science, and trade along the Silk Road. The heart of the city is the Registan, a grand square framed by three ornate madrasas decorated with vivid mosaics, intricate tilework, and soaring arches.

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a city where tradition and modern life blend seamlessly. Set along the banks of the Kura River and surrounded by hills, its layout reflects centuries of change and cultural exchange. The Old Town, with its cobbled lanes and wooden balconies, is a living museum of architecture, showcasing influences from Persian, Ottoman, and Russian eras. Above it all, the Narikala Fortress stands watch, offering sweeping views of the city below.