Italy’s port city of Brindisi, tucked along the Adriatic coast in the Puglia region, has been a gateway to the East for over two thousand years. Once the Roman Empire’s main departure point for the Via Appia, the road to Greece and beyond, Brindisi still bears traces of its ancient past, from Roman columns to remnants of old harbors that once welcomed traders, pilgrims, and soldiers.

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.

An Eastern city of Turkey, known in ancient times as Amida, spreads across a basalt plateau close to the banks of the Dicle River. The black basalt triple walls which encircle the old town give the city a rather ominous appearance.

Haines is a charming stop in the Alaska Panhandle and a gateway to Glacier Bay National Park and Tongass National Forest.

Montenegro, set along the Adriatic Sea, draws travelers with its dramatic landscapes and layered history. The Bay of Kotor, often mistaken for a fjord, is actually a submerged river canyon surrounded by steep cliffs and medieval towns. Kotor itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is enclosed by ancient fortifications that visitors can climb for panoramic views stretching from terracotta rooftops to the sea.

Enclosed by mountains, the Bay of Kotor is dotted with historic towns, medieval fortifications, and centuries-old churches, making it a must-visit location for travelers looking to explore a unique coastal landscape.