Historical destinations

The biggest city in the province of Alberta and the third largest in Canada, Calgary has a diverse landscape: it finds itself nestled between the Bow River and the Elbow River, which run across the wide prairies that characterise the region. The metropolis also grants access to the Canadian Rockies and the surrounding national parks, which are excellent for visits year-round thanks to the region's continental, dry climate.

With its celebrated restaurant scene, architectural treasures, historic wonders and serene coastal landscapes, it’s no surprise that lovely Charleston is a popular vacation destination. Explore the area’s culture through local food and music festivals, dine on Lowcountry cuisine and browse for Sea Island crafts. Wander through Charleston’s historic district and peer past wrought-iron gates into mysterious courtyards and fragrant gardens. Take one of many tours exploring the city’s culinary hot spots, antebellum mansions, historic churches, breweries and more. Stay at a charming inn, a historic hotel or a beach resort. Discover the people, flavours, traditions, sights and sounds found only in Charleston. Learn more at: www.visittheusa.com/destination/charleston

Historically an important trading centre, Peshawar sits not far from the Khyber Pass, once part of the legendary Silk Route, and an important gateway to the Indian subcontinent travelled by prominent conquerors and explorers. Things remain volatile in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border province, of which Peshawar is the capital, but recent trends seem to indicate a decline in criminality and a budding resurgence of urban life.

The majestic Faisal Mosque stands against the backdrop of the lush Margalla Hills as a symbol of a Pakistan placed firmly in the modern day, while holding on to its history and traditions. The capital city of Islamabad is a forward-thinking metropolis nestled among the green base of the Himalayas, and though it has traditionally been thought of mainly as a diplomatic city, it has recently grown to become an important business and financial centre for the region, as well as an emerging travel destination, one which, together with its neighbouring sister city of Rawalpindi, gives travelers in-the-know a taste of all sides of contemporary Pakistan.

In the Alpine foothills, just 50 km from Milan, Bergamo is the most striking city in Lombardy. Structured in two levels, the lower city is more modern and dynamic, whilst the famous ‘upper city’ boasts a stunning historic centre full of monuments and works of art. In the area around the city the Iseo Lake is well worth a visit, as is the sanctuary at Caravaggio and Crespi d’Adda – the most important company town in Italy, listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

Nestled between the imposing Al Hajar Mountains and salty waters of the Arabian Sea is Muscat, the cosmopolitan Omani capital. Now home to almost half the country's population, the city is an expat's darling and has a lot to offer in the way of historical sights, culture and entertainment. Muscat has managed to remain relatively concealed from the touristic eye and retains a sense of inwardness and an unspoiled quality long lost by some of its Emirati neighbors.

Stunning Himalayan vistas, big city bustle, centuries-old temples and an array of vibrant colors, intoxicating aromas and friendly smiles all come together in the eclectic metropolis that is Kathmandu. It is an emerging cosmopolitan city, yet it remains steeped in cultural, artistic and religious tradition and it offers visitors an assortment of unique sights and experiences. Independent travelers and trekking groups alike will find no shortage of things to do.