Manila, Philippines

The Philippine archipelago of some 7,000 islands was discovered in 1521 by Magellan. The Latin influence endures today in saffron-flavored paellas, traditional afternoon siestas, and the crumbling walls of Intramuros, a medieval fortress. A tour of the historic Malacanang Palace reveals the extravagance of the Marcos Era in ornate public rooms, opulent bedrooms and Imelda's notorious collection of footwear.