The capital, 450-year-old Asuncion ("Mother of Cities") merits a visit of unhurried nights - that way, you'll have time to sit in the main square and people-watch. The shopping in this grand city of 729,000 is the finest the country offers, and the cathedral and archaeological museum are both highlights. The governmental architecture is interesting; don't miss the Congressional Palace, Customs House and Government Palace (in the style of the Louvre).

The city of Oporto is situated on the right bank of the River Douro, being the second largest city of the country. Oporto is the regional capital of the northern area.

Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital, unfolds like a living storybook along the Suriname River, where wooden structures from the 17th and 18th centuries still stand today. This historic heart reveals a rare fusion of Dutch design and local craftsmanship. Visitors can stroll the Waterkant, a riverside avenue, and take in landmarks such as Fort Zeelandia, the neoclassical Reformed Church, and the lofty wooden Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.

On the north-western coast of Sal Island in Cape Verde sits Palmeira, an authentic fishing settlement where day-to-day life still revolves around the sea. The village’s seaside restaurants serve grilled tuna, octopus, and flying fish fresh from the day’s catch. Just a short trip from the centre lies Buracona, a natural lava rock pool famous for the “Blue Eye,” a glowing underwater cave that shines when the sunlight hits at just the right angle.

Whether you are in D.C. on business or vacation, you'll find that it's a fascinating city that is full of history, art, theatre, and dramatic monuments.