The White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, in Chiang Rai is a mesmerizing piece of contemporary architecture that stands out for its striking white color and intricate designs. Created by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple symbolizes purity and the teachings of Buddha. With its elaborate carvings and surreal aesthetic, it’s definitely the highlight of my trip to Chiang Rai.

A historic hilltop castle with views of Mexico City. It houses the National Museum of History. The views are amazing once you get to the top.

The House of the Black Heads is a historic building located in Riga's Old Town. Originally built in the 14th century, it served as a guild for unmarried German merchants known as the Black Heads. The building is notable for its ornate Renaissance facade, astronomical clock, and richly decorated interiors. Though destroyed during World War II, it was meticulously reconstructed in the 1990s. You can tour the museum inside to learn about its history and significance. Attending a concert or event hosted there adds to the experience.

The Palace of Culture and Science is an iconic landmark gifted by the Soviet Union in the 1950s. You can go up to the observation deck for sweeping views of Warsaw. The building itself is massive and packed with things to do, including museums, theaters, and cinemas. The architecture is a blend of Socialist Realism and Art Deco styles. You can take an elevator to the 30th-floor observation deck for panoramic views of the city.

A massive golden Buddha statue that’s not as crowded as Wat Pho.

The cloister at Santa Chiara is a peaceful escape with stunning majolica tiles on every column and bench. Each tile tells a story, adding bursts of color to the otherwise simple architecture. We loved walking through the citrus-filled courtyard and soaking in the quiet. The museum added depth to the visit, especially with artifacts from WWII. Discovering the old thermal baths was an unexpected bonus. Definitely worth taking your time here.

This small temple in a cave in Ancona feels like something out of a fantasy novel. The Tempio del Valadier is tucked away inside a cave. The hike up to it, though short, is very peaceful. Once you reach the temple, it feels almost surreal. It is a beautiful neoclassical building set in the middle of nature. It is a little off the beaten path but definitely worth the trip if you enjoy unique historical spots.

Zojo ji is the main temple of Jodo shu Buddhism, set right in front of Tokyo Tower. The grounds feel serene and a bit majestic, with shrines, memorials, and a tree planted by former US president Ulysses S. Grant in 1879.

Climbing the Torre dei Lamberti was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Verona. The tower stands 84 meters tall, and after a quick elevator ride and a few steps, we were at the top. The view over the city was amazing and you can see Verona’s red rooftops stretching out in every direction. The tower’s clock and the big bell, El Rengo, add a nice historical touch. We spent a lot of time just enjoying the 360-degree views, spotting famous spots like Juliet's Balcony and the Arena di Verona. The entry fee was totally reasonable, and it’s worth it for the best view in the city.

Also known as Asakusa Shrine, this is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, honoring Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The complex has a main hall, a five story pagoda, and big gates at the entries.