Kairouan is a historic city in central Tunisia, set on a broad plain away from the Mediterranean coast. It is one of the principal holy cities of the Islamic world and is recognized for its exceptionally preserved medina, religious monuments, and traditional urban design. The city’s whitewashed buildings, domes, narrow lanes, and surrounding walls create a distinctive landscape.
Saipan, the largest of the Northern Mariana Islands, offers a rare combination of deep historical roots, island traditions, and dramatic landscapes. Located in the western Pacific, this U.S. territory was once the site of one of the most pivotal battles in the Pacific during World War II. Visitors today can explore the remains of bunkers, tanks, and hidden caves at sites like Suicide Cliff, Last Command Post, and the American Memorial Park.
Bijaipur is a small rural destination in Rajasthan, India, set within the Aravalli hills and surrounded by farmland and quiet village landscapes. It is best known for its historic fort, Castle Bijaipur, which has been adapted into a heritage stay.
Catembe is a coastal district of Maputo, located on the southern shore of Maputo Bay directly across the water from central Maputo. Its landscape includes sandy beaches, low coastal vegetation, open land, and views across the bay toward the capital. The district has traditionally been a quieter counterpart to Maputo, with fishing, small-scale agriculture, and coastal activities forming part of local life.
Gili Air is the easternmost of the three Gili Islands, located just off the northwest coast of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara. The small island is surrounded by coral reefs and shallow tropical waters, with sandy beaches and coconut palms lining much of its coast. Gili Air has a resident community and a more relaxed settlement pattern than Gili Trawangan, while still offering guesthouses, restaurants, cafés, and dive centers.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Thomas Somme on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Alessandro Santoro on Unsplash
If it wasn't for Paris, Ghent would be medieval Europe's largest city. Steeped in history both rebellious and industrious, it sits at the junction of the Leie and Scheldt rivers and was once the site of armed battles by its townsfolk, who raged against heavy taxes and restricted civil liberties. Ghent is grey and somewhat begrimed — not picturesque like Bruges, but ultimately more realistic. Like Bruges, the town has a belfort well worth climbing and, at the Sint-Baafskathedral, a must-see masterpiece by Jan van Eyck - Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.
Other Popular Destinations in Belgium
Antwerp
A major port city on the River Scheldt, Antwerp, Belgium, is a cultural, historical, and commercial hub and the country's most populous city. Known as the "diamond capital of the world," Antwerp is renowned for its cut diamonds.
Bruges
Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a city where medieval charm meets modern allure. Nestled in the heart of Belgium's Flanders region, Bruges is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobblestone streets that invite visitors to step back in time.