This fort dates back to 1588 and was colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and English and sits prominently on the Indian Ocean where azure water lap the coast.

This sacred fig tree with a link to the Buddha is one of the oldest human-planted trees in the world.

This amazing mountain temple is topped by one of the tallest sitting Buddha statues in the world.

This ancient cave temple complex is the largest and best-preserved temple complex in Sri Lanka.

An ancient temple to the Hindu god Shiva surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery.

Known as the most scenic route in Sri Lanka, this train line is steeped in history and offers an unparalleled view of the country.

One of the few places where inexperienced snorkelers can spot a shark.

An ancient stone fortress considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world.

This restored 17th century synagogue is one of the few remaining structures in Morocco’s ruined Jewish quarters.

The designated Jewish quarter in Fez dates back to the 15th century.

Hidden behind mountains in Morocco, a remote town hides a thriving surfing community.

At this faithfully preserved medina off the Moroccan tourist circuit you can walk through six centuries of history in one day.

The oldest known university in the world is in Fez, Morocco.

The courtyard of this small Marinid madrasa is a dazzling example of intricate Islamic architecture.

Thousands of narrow alleyways in an ancient medieval city make up what's believed to be the world's largest car-free urban zone.

The other side is actually green.

Founded as a refugee camp, now a popular tourist spot.

One of the best examples of a Byzantine period monument in Albania.

In this town's main square resides a statue of none other than the 43rd President of the United States.

In the heart of Tirana, this underground nuclear bunker has been transformed into a museum.

A museum dedicated to secret surveillance.

Once the fallout shelter of a dictator, this sprawling bunker is now a combined history museum and contemporary art gallery.

This ominous Albanian fortress houses tanks and downed planes as a reminder of their victories over Western imperialism.

An Albanian monument to the Communism that nearly crushed the country is now a crumbling wreck.