Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, is a city that blends the desert’s quiet rhythms with the daily life of a growing urban center. Its coastal setting, unique cultural traditions, and access to the desert make Nouakchott both an introduction to Mauritania and a gateway to exploring the country further.

Portland, Oregon, is a city where natural beauty and urban innovation coexist harmoniously. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and framed by volcanic mountains, Portland offers an array of outdoor adventures alongside its renowned cultural scene. Visitors can explore the lush expanses of Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., or take a leisurely stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden, which showcases exquisite traditional Japanese landscape design.

Nicaragua offers travelers a look into centuries of layered history set against striking natural backdrops. Visitors can tour the baroque-style Granada Cathedral, take a boat ride through Las Isletas (a chain of small, volcanic islands in Lake Nicaragua), or climb the bell tower of Iglesia La Merced for sweeping city views.

Tucked away on the southern tip of a narrow, 16-mile peninsula in Belize, Placencia is a charming seaside village that effortlessly blends laid-back Caribbean vibes with an adventurous spirit. Known for its vibrant local culture and idyllic beaches, Placencia invites visitors to relax on its soft sandy shores or dive into its crystal-clear waters.

South Central Asia offers travelers a journey through vivid contrasts, where centuries-old temples stand beside bustling modern cities, and tea-covered hills roll into dense tropical forests. In India, visitors can witness the grandeur of Mughal architecture at the Taj Mahal, then find serenity at the ghats of Varanasi, where rituals have continued for thousands of years.