Pingyao, a city steeped in ancient charm, offers a remarkable glimpse into China’s rich history. This well-preserved city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its classical ancient architecture, which remains largely intact since the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through the Pingyao Ancient City Wall, a formidable structure that encircles the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Malta’s ornate and vibrant capital, Valletta, dazzles travelers with its abundance of historical landmarks and striking architecture. This island jewel off the coast of Italy remains a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises. From central St. George’s Square, to sixteenth-century Casa Rocca Piccola, to the Siege Bell War Memorial, Valletta has no shortage of monuments detailing the city’s long history.
Taormina, with its hilltop location above the Ionian Sea, is easily one of Italy's most beautiful places. As it's packed with people in the summertime, recommended months to visit include April and September.
Cleveland, Ohio is a city with grit, pride, and a surprising amount of charm. Perched along the southern shore of Lake Erie, it blends industrial roots with a strong cultural identity. One of its most iconic attractions is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where visitors can view everything from Prince’s custom guitars to handwritten lyrics by The Beatles. The museum brings history to life through rotating exhibits, film screenings, and live performances on the lakefront plaza.
Chiang Rai, in northern Thailand near the borders with Laos and Myanmar, is a city where history, art, and tranquil landscapes converge. Founded in the 13th century as the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom, it retains a strong sense of heritage while also serving as a hub for contemporary Thai creativity.
Photo Credit: Photo by Grigorii Shcheglov on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Grigorii Shcheglov on Unsplash
This thriving port city has so much to offer, including several museums, the beautiful historic quarter Porto Antico and La Lanterna. This lighthouse is Genoa's best known landmark and provides stunning views over the port and bay. There are several famous writers, painters and artists who called Genoa home, but the most notable person was explorer Christopher Columbus, who was born in Genoa. During your evening meal, make sure you indulge in Genoa's specialty, pasta with pesto!
Other Popular Destinations in Italy
Rome
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Venice
Welcome to Venice, with its network of canals, rich history and composition of over 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea. Fine art, stunning architecture, white limestone bridges, moving about via watercraft... Venice is a singular experience and an astonishing masterpiece of civilization.