A gateway between the two nations of the Iberian peninsula, Badajoz lies as close to Lisbon as it does to Madrid or Seville, and the city draws on influences from both sides of the border, as well as from centuries of tumultuous history, to form its distinctive character. Winding medieval alleys and a skyline dotted with palace towers make the historic town a sight to behold, while the remnants of the majestic Alcazaba watch over the city as they have for centuries, once an impenetrable fortress that protected the area from countless invasions.

You would never expect to step into Bavaria while visiting central Washington, but upon entering Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains, you will certainly feel as though you have been transported to Germany. Nearly a quarter of the town's residents can trace their ancestry back to Germany, and they have brought that Old World feel with them. Alpine-style buildings line the streets of this gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries. Though the town is small, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality.

Bentonville, set against the scenic Ozarks, blends culture, community, and creativity. Over the past decade, the city has transformed into a cultural hub, thanks in large part to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art—a groundbreaking institution hailed by the Washington Post as “the most talked-about new museum in the United States in a generation.”

Tel Aviv, alongside Jerusalem, is a top Israeli destination and the heart of the country's culture and economy. Known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, the city’s eclectic Bauhaus architecture, vibrant street art, and world-renowned culinary scene set it apart. Often called 'the city that never stops', Tel Aviv boasts a lively nightlife and dynamic cultural festivals, making it an irresistible draw for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Discover Ningbo, one of China's oldest cities and a vibrant international hub with a rich history. The birthplace of the Neolithic Hemudu culture, Ningbo translates from Mandarin as "the Serene Waves". Located on the shores of Hangzhou Bay, it is a long-established international trading port. With the Hangzhou Bridge, the longest trans-oceanic link in the world, Ningbo is now directly connected to Shanghai. Perhaps Ningbo's greatest distinction is the Tianyi Pavilion — the oldest library in all of China.