Who would have thought, back in the tumultuous coup and counter coup days of the 1970s, that Burkina Faso would become the cultural darling of West Africa? Unlikely as it seems, Burkina Faso has become the Utah of West Africa, hosting a biennial film festival that rivals the Sundance Film Festival for cultural clout. When it's not hosting film festivals, it's busy organizing its other biennial cultural festival.

Newcastle is the capital of the Hunter Valley Region, in New South Wales. Lakes, beaches, rivers and bays, combine with lush countryside to make the Hunter region surrounding Newcastle almost unlimited in its appeal.

Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini, sits high in the Mdzimba Mountains, offering visitors fresh air, rolling green hills, and a relaxed pace of life.

Maine, known as the Pine Tree State, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, maritime heritage, and charming small towns. Start your exploration in Acadia National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Greece is a country where layers of history sit side by side with everyday life. In Athens, visitors can stand at the foot of the Acropolis and look up at the Parthenon, built more than 2,400 years ago, then walk a few blocks to modern cafes buzzing with conversation and music. The city’s neighborhoods, like Plaka and Monastiraki, offer both ancient ruins and small family-run shops selling handmade sandals and olive oil soap.