Egypt

Immersed in history, Egypt's rich seams of eye-opening antiquity are everywhere. The country's monuments are striking milestones in a unique and beguiling biography, and a great many of them – the Pyramids of Giza, the Temples of Luxor, the Sphinx – are instantly recognizable landmarks. There’s more than enough innovation (the Grand Egyptian Museum, the New Administrative Capital, the Cairo Tower) to put a crackle in the air, but it never drowns out Egypt’s seasoned, centuries-old narrative. Architectural grandeur rises up all around you in Islamic Cairo, ancient remains dot Luxor and charming cafes punctuate the historic quarters, vibrant souks and Nile banks. Take your pick.