Texas is a state where size meets story from high plains to coastal shores, every region brings something distinct to the table. In San Antonio, visitors can walk through centuries of layered history starting at the Alamo, a site of one of the most famous battles in the state’s fight for independence. The nearby San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a deeper look into the Spanish colonial influence that shaped the region.

Aït Benhaddou, located in southern Morocco along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, is one of the country’s most iconic historic sites. This fortified village, or ksar, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired for its striking earthen clay architecture that rises dramatically from the desert landscape.

New Jersey often surprises first-time visitors. It’s not just the gateway to New York or Philadelphia but a destination in its own right with deep Revolutionary War history, beach towns full of character, and some of the most diverse food offerings on the East Coast. Cities like Trenton and Morristown still carry the echoes of pivotal battles, while monuments and preserved buildings tell stories of George Washington’s winter encampments and early American resilience.

Esperance sits on the southern coast of Western Australia, where wide blue seas meet miles of white sand beaches and rocky headlands. The coastal town grew from pearling and pastoral beginnings into a laid-back seaside destination with a backdrop of rugged terrain and ocean views.

Alajuela, Costa Rica’s second-largest city, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural wonders that make it more than just the gateway to Juan Santamaría International Airport. The city’s central park, cathedral, and museums create a lively hub where local life unfolds, from weekend markets filled with fresh produce to festivals celebrating music and tradition.