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Crowds may swarm upon it daily from sunrise onwards, but exposure hasn’t dulled the impact of the largest religious monument in the world. Commissioned by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century as the centerpiece of the mighty Khmer empire, the structure is inspired by Hindu sacred design and is estimated to have taken around 30 years to build. The biggest surprise upon visiting might be learning that the vast complex of spires, moats, frescoes, cloisters, and balustrades was constructed in such speedy fashion. You won’t be alone while witnessing it, but sunrise over the iconic temple remains one of the essential experiences in Southeast Asia. A return in the afternoon when the camera-toting hordes have dispersed is also advisable.

Iceland’s largest and most famous geothermal spa lies around an hour outside Reykjavik, quite close to Keflavik Airport. With a dramatic setting amidst large black lava boulders, the steam-filled, creamy-blue pool area is a striking and surreal sight. The Blue Lagoon has been open since the 1980s and today draws some 700,000 visitors a year. The pools are actually created by heated seawater that flows from the adjacent geothermal power station. The waters allegedly cure all manner of skin-related ailments (eczema, psoriasis), but whether these claims are true or not, it’s certainly an atmospheric place to unwind, with very comfortable (99 degrees Fahrenheit) temperatures. The complex includes a small bar that dispenses healthy juices and beer, as well as a spa area for massages andbeauty treatments, and a very good restaurant; there’s also an upscale hotel if you wish to stay overnight.

Whether you prefer the avant-garde, Renaissance works, street art, or classical paintings, Germany’s art offerings have something for everyone.

This itinerary trades busy beaches for cloud forests, quiet rivers, and rural communities.

Experience autumn in Richmond with scenic walks, seasonal festivals, local dining, and colorful gardens across the city.

Learn more about Puerto Rico through its creativity and rich heritage, from street art to world-renowned paintings and more.

On this episode of View From Afar, host Michelle Baran talks with Wyoming’s new executive director of tourism, Domenic Bravo, about why the Cowboy State is so much more than Yellowstone.

On this episode of View From Afar, host Billie Cohen talks with Visit Florida Keys and Key West CEO Kara Franker about why Key West—home of Fantasy Fest, the Conch Republic, and one of America’s most welcoming communities—refuses to be anything but itself.

On this week’s episode of Travel Tales by AFAR, an art lover on a whirlwind trip through Spain and France explores the dramatic life—and complicated legacy—of Pablo Picasso.

From the orchestra to community concerts and vinyl, experience how music flows through the state.

Palm-fringed beaches, waterfalls, and river rafting make for a truly unforgettable family-friendly getaway in Fiji.

On this week’s episode of Travel Tales by AFAR, AFAR contributing writer Chris Colin travels to the Netherlands in search of the art movement that sought to heal the world through geometry.

Baroque castles, incredible porcelain artistry, and magnificent symphonies star in this stunning tour through eastern Germany.