Visit Transnistria

Visit Tiraspol, the capital of the unrecognized state of Transnistria in Moldova. Explore the central Suvorov Square with its statue of Alexander Suvorov, see the Soviet-era House of Soviets (government building), and visit the Kvint brandy factory (famous for its cognac production since 1897). Experience the unique atmosphere of this breakaway region with its Soviet nostalgia and distinct political status.

Sip vast wine cellars, visit monasteries, and slow-lane villages of Moldova

Explore Ottoman bazaars, Rugova Canyon, and cafe-lined boulevards of Kosovo

Relax on golden bays, explore crusader castles, and citrus plains of Northern Cyprus

Visit Chisinau, the capital of Moldova. Explore the Nativity Cathedral (a 19th-century Orthodox church with a bell tower and park), stroll through the Stefan cel Mare Central Park (featuring a statue of the medieval ruler and fountains), and sample local Moldovan wine at Cricova Winery (an underground wine city with extensive cellars and tasting tours).

Ride peak trams, browse neon markets, and hike island trails of Hong Kong

Sample night markets, hike marble gorges, and coastlines of Taiwan

Visit Abkhazia, a partially recognized state in the South Caucasus. Explore the capital Sukhumi with its botanical garden (one of the oldest in the Caucasus, founded in 1840) and the Abkhazian State Museum (showcasing local history and artifacts). Relax on the beaches of Gagra (a resort town known for its subtropical climate and Soviet-era architecture) and hike in the Ritsa Nature Reserve (home to Lake Ritsa, a scenic alpine lake surrounded by mountains).