Suzhou, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," enchants visitors with its labyrinth of canals, classical gardens, and rich silk heritage. Located in eastern China's Jiangsu Province, Suzhou is famed for its beautifully preserved classical Chinese gardens, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating ksar (fortified village) nestled on the ancient caravan route between Marrakech and the Sahara in Morocco. Known for its stunning earthen clay architecture and towering kasbahs, Aït Benhaddou offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and Berber culture.
Hartford, Connecticut, is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a unique blend of New England charm and urban energy. Known as the “Insurance Capital of the World,” Hartford has deep roots in finance, but its appeal extends far beyond business. The city is home to stunning historic architecture, vibrant museums, and a lively arts scene. A visit to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, the oldest public art museum in the U.S., is a must.
Vilnius, the charming capital of Lithuania, is a city where historical grandeur meets vibrant modernity. The heart of Vilnius is its UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the largest and most well-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Wander through its cobblestone streets and admire the stunning Baroque architecture.
Nestled in Kenya's Rift Valley, Nakuru is a city that captivates with its stunning natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. The city is renowned for Lake Nakuru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary flocks of flamingos that once numbered in the millions. Although flamingo populations fluctuate, the lake remains a sanctuary for other bird species and wildlife, including black and white rhinos, giraffes, and lions
The Irish Republic's second largest city is a surprisingly appealing place - you'll find time passes effortlessly during the day, and by night the pub scene is lively. The town center is uniquely situated on an island between two channels of the Lee River. North of the river, in the Shandon area, is an interesting historic part of the city, if a bit run down today. Sights to the south include Protestant St Finbarr's Cathedral, the Cork Museum (largely given over to the nationalist struggle in which Cork played an important role), the 19th century Cork Jail, the City Hall and numerous churches, breweries and chapels.
Cork prides itself on its cultural pursuits, and apart from a heap of cozy pubs, the Cork Opera House, Crawford Art Gallery and Firkin Crane Centre offer both traditional and mainstream fare. A popular day trip from Cork is to Blarney Castle, where even the most un-touristy visitor may feel compelled to kiss the Blarney Stone. Cork is around five hours to the south of Dublin by bus.