Located in the northern part of the country, high above sea level, Ulan Bator is the coldest capital city in the world. The cultural and business center of Mongolia, and a hub connecting the Trans-Siberian Railway with the Chinese rail system, Ulan Bator has become a thriving urban center in one of the most remote locations in the world. Visit the Tibetan-style Gandan Monastery, one of the few buildings in Ulan Bator to predate WWII and one of the few monasteries to survive the Soviet purge.

After sleepy Yeosu was chosen to host the 2012 World Expo, it was catapulted into the tourism spotlight. Now that the South Korean city’s volcanic beaches, idyllic islands and colorful historic sites have been discovered, it’s likely that it will grow into a popular international vacation spot. Take a bus to the Hyangiram temple, walk along the breakwater to Odongdo Island, or work your way through the fascinating Fish Market.

There’s not a lot to do on Elafonisos...which is just how its peace-seeking visitors like it. This tiny Greek island is a mosaic of jewel-colored flowers, soft white sand, and aquamarine sea. Elafonisos is all about the beach, baby, with pristine snorkeling conditions and quiet stretches of sand. Every day ends on a happy note when you can dine on fabulously fresh seafood at a harbor-side tavern, relaxing under a tangerine sunset.