A same meaning or not problem:
After extensive traveling through Africa and Europe and a bit of Asia , the couple settled in New York City , New York .
After extensive travels through Asia and a piece of Africa and Europe , the couple settled in New York City , New York .
****
[A]: no

A same meaning or not problem:
Mohsin Zaidi lived in Lucknow for nearly four decades before settling down in Delhi after retirement .
For almost four decades , Mohsin Zaidi lived in Lucknow before settling after retirement in Delhi .
****
[A]: yes

A same meaning or not problem:
The 40 Watt Uptown was large and professional , and it was a major stop for independent underground music actors in the 1980s .
The 40 Watt Uptown was large and professional , and it was a major stop for underground independent music acts in the 1980s .
****
[A]: yes

A same meaning or not problem:
In 1855 , the Whig Party and the Anti-Nebraska Party merged into the Republican Party in New York .
In 1855 , the Whig Party and the Anti-Nebraska Party merged in New York to form the Republican Party .
****
[A]:
yes