Akita sits in the northern part of Japan’s Tōhoku region and offers travelers experiences rooted in long-held traditions, lively festivals, and scenic valleys. Its capital city blends seasonal appeal with cultural offerings, from Senshu Park, once the site of Kubota Castle, where cherry blossoms and lotuses draw locals and visitors alike, to the Akita Museum of Art, a striking building designed by famed architect Tadao Ando that displays works including pieces by Tsuguharu Foujita.

Quetzaltenango, often called Xela by locals, is Guatemala’s second-largest city and a hub of indigenous culture, colonial history, and highland landscapes. Surrounded by volcanoes, including the towering Santa María, the city sits at over 7,600 feet above sea level, giving it a crisp mountain climate that contrasts with the country’s tropical lowlands.

Ulm, Germany, a picturesque city on the banks of the Danube River, offers a rich tapestry of history and modern charm. Dominating its skyline is the Ulm Minster, home to the tallest church steeple in the world at 161.5 meters (530 feet). This Gothic masterpiece invites visitors to climb its 768 steps for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside.

São Tomé Island, the larger of the two islands in São Tomé & Príncipe, offers travelers a balance of culture, history, and dramatic natural scenery. Its capital, São Tomé city, is a coastal hub filled with colonial architecture, lively markets, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Shopping, historic temples, lush green spaces and exceptional dining are all part of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. This spectacular, highly populated metropolis holds unlimited options for tourists.

Mont-Saint-Michel rises from tidal flats along the Normandy coast, its abbey and village shaped by centuries of pilgrimage, defense, and isolation.