Tissamaharama, often called “Tissa” by seasoned travelers, sits in southern Sri Lanka as a town steeped in history and living culture. Once the capital of the ancient Ruhuna Kingdom in the 3rd century BCE, this settlement still radiates stories from the distant past in its temples, reservoirs, and even the streets where market life unfolds each day.
Benguerra Island, part of Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich marine life. Accessible by boat from Vilankulo, the island offers a secluded retreat where visitors can enjoy sun-soaked sandbanks, coral reefs, and the gentle sway of palm trees. Its small size and limited development help maintain an intimate atmosphere that feels far removed from bustling tourist hubs.
Salamanca, often called the “Golden City” for the warm glow of its sandstone buildings, is a place where centuries of stories are etched into every wall. Visit its historic center to wander through cobbled streets lined with architectural marvels. The University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe and still buzzes with student life.
Wick’s location at the mouth of the River Wick provides a dramatic coastal setting, with cliffs, sandy beaches, and the North Sea stretching into the horizon.
Ningbo is right on the East China Sea, south of Shanghai. Many scholars believe this was the cradle of Chinese civilization. Study the stone tablets and thousands of rare Ming Dynasty books in China's oldest and most renowned library. See the Asoka Temple believed to be one of the most important Buddhist temples in China or visit Tian Tong Temple, one of the largest and most scenic. For shopping, try the colorful and busy Gao Tang Free Market, the largest in the city.
Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, is a historic jewel known for its blend of grandeur and tradition. Once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, the city was envisioned as the “Versailles of Morocco,” filled with monumental gates, sprawling walls, and lavish palaces.
One of the "Out Islands" of the Bahamas, Long Island lies at the eastern reaches of the more than 700 islands and cays that make up thisspectacular archipelago. Located on the Tropic of Cancer, approximately 160 miles southeast of Nassau (a one hour flight), it covers nearly 230 square miles and is 70 miles long by five miles at its widest point.
Christopher Columbus saw this long island as he headed west in Oct., 1492. In his log he described 150-foot high cliffs, waves crashingon isolated beaches, and miles of uninterrupted green foliage fillingthe air with "the scent of flowers and trees, delicious and sweet...the most delightful thing in the world". Long Island remains remarkably unchanged today. The geography of its east and west coast is strikingly different; hills and coral cliffs mark the former, whileshallow bays and miles of white sand beach grace the latter.
There is plenty to see and do in this paradise. Historic churches and romantic ruins, ancient caves and virgin beaches abound. It's a place to laze, to play, to explore. Long Island maintains a unique character other Out Islands have lost to the rising tide of tourism-related development. Its peaceful easy way of life and crime-free status ensure a worry-free holiday.