This iconic Parisian bookstore doubles as the "Tumbleweed Hotel" for traveling writers.

France's most famous cemetery, with some of its most curious tombs.

This bar is home to what's likely the oldest living jazz band in the world.

This ratty natural history collection is a charming relic among a city rushing into modernity.

A son-and-daughter meat market, hawked by mom and dad.

An out-of-place slice of France, smack in the middle of Shanghai.

The cathedral stands in New Jufa, Isfahan's Armenian quarter that was established in 1606.

Marked by the hand of the explorer Henry Morton Stanley.

This 17th-century structure is a beautiful testimony to traditional Persian architecture

This ancient burial site is believed to be one of the first earthquake-protected structures in the world.

A dreamy mausoleum honors Persia's most famous poet.

A historic trade hub teeming with gorgeous architecture, colorful goods, and vibrant designs.

The hottest, driest, and most scenic desert on Earth.

17th century mosque for Shah Abbas' harem.

These little castles each held thousands of pigeons.

The ancient necropolis houses the immense rock-cut tombs of four Persian kings.

Putrefaction plateaus in Iran, where the dead were sent for decontamination before going to their final resting place.

A spectacular rainbow of stained glass makes the "Pink Mosque" one of the most beautiful in Iran.

The palace of the King of Kings, burned by Alexander the Great.

Mirrors and glass shards cover every inch of this arrestingly beautiful mosque.