Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra, India is now a cultural capital replete with famous landmarks and striking architecture. The city’s most prominent draw is the magnificent Taj Mahal, the iconic white marble mausoleum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by millions of people each year.
Písek, a picturesque city in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, is a hidden gem steeped in history and charm. One of its most notable landmarks is the Písek Stone Bridge, the oldest preserved bridge in the country. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic bridge spans the Otava River and is a testament to medieval engineering.
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara is a hidden gem in northern Tanzania that offers an unforgettable safari experience. The lake is part of Lake Manyara National Park, which is known for its dramatic landscapes, from dense groundwater forests to grassy plains. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to explore this compact park, home to an impressive variety of animals, including elephants, hippos, and the famous tree-climbing lions.
Nuremberg is Bavaria’s second-largest city and for centuries was the undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire. There is plenty to do and see, starting with picturesque charm of the Old Town, situated at the foot of the Kaiserburg.
This quaint port city is breathtakingly beautiful! Surrounded by peaks, Seward fjords are the perfect whale and porpoise habitat, and both seals and puffins fill the Alaska SeaLife Center. Those looking for a challenge can hike the western trail to the summit of Mount Marathon.
Natural wonders await you in the steaming, geothermally active North Island city of Rotorua, New Zealand. Pohutu Geyser erupts several times per day, and blistering mud pools provide a truly unique sightseeing experience. When in Rotorua, tourists also visit its living Maori village, as well as Te Puia (New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute), where weaving and woodcarving is featured.
Antananarivo, Madagascar’s vibrant capital, offers a unique blend of cultural richness and historical depth. Perched on a series of hills, the city’s layout is characterized by its steep streets and traditional architecture. The Royal Palace, or Rova of Antananarivo, is a central landmark, offering a glimpse into Madagascar's royal past. Although much of the palace was destroyed by fire in 1995, the site remains a significant cultural and historical monument.
Antananarivo’s markets are bustling with life and offer a feast for the senses. The Analakely Market is a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds where you can sample local street food, buy handcrafted goods, and experience the daily hustle of Malagasy life. For a taste of the city’s colonial past, a stroll through the Avenue of Independence reveals charming buildings and vibrant local cafes
Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the city’s museums, such as the Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie, which houses a collection of artifacts from Madagascar’s past, including ancient tools and sculptures. The Andafiavaratra Palace, now a museum, was once the residence of Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony and offers insights into the political history of Madagascar.
Fun fact: Antananarivo is named after a 17th-century Merina king, Andrianjaka, who established the city as the center of his kingdom. The name "Antananarivo" translates to "City of a Thousand" or "City of the Thousand," referring to the number of soldiers he maintained in his capital.