Bahrain, the only island nation in the Arabian Gulf, offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern flair. Away from the city, Bahrain’s landscape surprises many. The Tree of Life, a lone 400-year-old mesquite standing in the desert with no known water source, continues to puzzle scientists and inspire travelers.

Vieques Island is found in the northeastern Caribbean, roughly 8 miles east of the Puerto Rican mainland. Its beaches are commonly acknowledged as some of the Caribbean's best. The Bioluminescent Bay is especially alluring given the undeveloped nature of the island.

A beautiful baroque town with richly decorated baroque churches and a charming Main Square with a decorative wrought-iron cross.

Des Moines, Iowa’s capital city, offers a refreshing take on Midwest travel with a blend of creativity, history, and community pride. Its downtown skyline is anchored by the gold-domed Iowa State Capitol, which offers free guided tours and a striking view from its hilltop perch. Just across the river, the East Village mixes old brick storefronts with indie shops, coffee houses, and vibrant murals. It's where old meets new, a theme that runs throughout the city’s evolving identity.

Douz is a town in southern Tunisia on the edge of the Sahara, where date-palm oases meet the dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental. The town is often regarded as a gateway to the sandy desert, with dunes beginning close to the built-up area and extending toward the wider Sahara. Palm groves provide a strong contrast to the surrounding dry landscape, while nearby Chott el-Jerid forms a vast salt depression with bright mineral surfaces and mirages.