Tbilisi, Georgia

Five thousand years ago right here in southwest Asia the game of backgammon was born, and it is still being played, inside and outside, all over the region. [2016]

Punda, Willemstad, Curaçao

The "love lock" sculpture on the waterfront in Punda gives couples a chance to show the world how much they love each other – with all their heart. It also inspires a call to merriment for anyone celebrating a birthday on World Heart Day (which is today). [2017]

Lake Gatun, Panama

Gatun Lake is a reservoir that was formed by damming the Gatun River. Today, the lake is part of the Panama Canal. This container ship is passing from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean as pleasure boats take advantage of the lake as well. [2017]

Taipei, Taiwan

She might have a future as a bubble artist. The merriment-oriented Tamsu district of Taipei would certainly be the place for it. With her bubble wand, she's got the power to make bigger bubbles than this, however. [2011]

Gatineau, Quebec, Canada

PFK or KFC? In Canada, it depends on the province. Canada may be bilingual, but the provinces have language laws of their own, and Quebec is not about to let English adulterate Francophone culture. What does PFK stand for? [2002]

Kayseri, Turkey

Keyseri, smack on the middle of Turkey, is one of the Anatolian Tigers. Its economy is booming not because of state subsidies but because of entrepreneurs like these men behind the counter. Their shop thrives on the profits of the larger economy, with hundreds of firms producing everything from furniture to banking, all of which bring money into Central Anatolia. [2007]

Portsmouth, England, UK

Here are two Portsmouth and Southsea (Portsea) voluntary lifeguards. Thanks to their vigilance, especially on summer weekends, England's Southsea is a little safer. Did you know England had a Southsea? [2011]