From the Caribbean Sea on one side to the Pacific Ocean on the other, Central America is home to lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and vibrant coastal towns.
Buck Island is a small uninhabited island off the northeastern coast of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Most of the island and surrounding waters form Buck Island Reef National Monument, a protected area known for coral reefs, sandy beaches, dry forest, and marine habitats. The island lies a short boat journey from Christiansted and is surrounded by clear Caribbean waters.
Tainan is a historic city in southwestern Taiwan known for its temples, traditional neighborhoods, food culture, and surviving architectural landmarks. As one of Taiwan's oldest urban centers, it contains a dense collection of religious buildings, historic residences, markets, and former administrative sites. The city is generally low-lying, with coastal plains extending westward toward the Taiwan Strait.
Luang Prabang, the jewel of northern Laos, captivates travelers with its blend of serene spirituality, French colonial charm, and breathtaking natural beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is nestled between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, creating a tranquil setting where time seems to slow down. Here, ancient temples with glistening spires, like Wat Xieng Thong, sit alongside quaint colonial-era villas, inviting visitors to explore the harmonious fusion of Lao and French cultures.
El Jem is a town in central Tunisia best known for its exceptionally preserved Roman amphitheatre, which dominates the surrounding plain. The monument was built as a free-standing structure of stone blocks and could accommodate an estimated 35,000 spectators, making it one of the largest amphitheatres in the Roman world. El Jem developed in an important agricultural region associated with olive cultivation and the production and trade of olive oil.