Shopper's Paradise

Bahrain

It is easy to overlook this small island-nation, having, as it does, such powerful and flashy neighbours as Qatar and the Emirates, but to ignore Bahrain would be a huge mistake. It is an emerging power in the region, with all the luxury and worldliness of a cosmopolitan destination and all the charm and personality of a small island. Add to this the growing arts scene and burgeoning international cuisine in the country, and you have the newest prime travel destination in the region, and the most socially liberal one, to boot.

Chicago, Illinois

More than 42 kilometers of lakefront frame Chicago's stunning urban skyline. Here in the heart of the Midwest, the nation’s third-largest city boasts soaring skyscrapers and colorful neighborhoods against a backdrop of sandy beaches and beautiful parks. This cosmopolitan playground bursts with things to do. Sightseeing options range from Chicago icons – such as Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate, Grant Park’s Buckingham Fountain and Navy Pier’s Ferris wheel – to fascinating history and architecture tours.

Houston, Texas

Located in Texas, the fourth largest city in the U.S. is known for NASA, its annual rodeo and the largest medical complex in the world, the Texas Medical Center. However, Houston has matured into a complete and downright hip vacation destination for the savvy traveler. The city is a diverse metropolis where no ethnicity comprises a majority of the population. This mix of cultures has contributed to making Houston a city of superb cuisine and world-class culture, entertainment and shopping. It's no surprise that Houston now attracts visitors from all over the world.

Make your own #MyHelsinki

Check out MyHelsinki.fi and make your own #MyHelsinki!

Eye on Amsterdam

Bangkok

Dynamic, exotic and richly cosmopolitan, Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant travel destinations. As a city of contrasts, this cultural epicentre entices millions of travellers each year to its bountiful markets, luxury hotels, stunning scenery and tantalising cuisine. Where ancient and modern coincide, Bangkok’s glorious golden temples and world-class skyscrapers await. Revel in the frenetic pace as you soak up the sights, shop until you drop then tuk-tuk around town for a zesty slice of Bangkok’s indulgent and risqué nightlife.

Beijing

Beijing's famous Tiananmen Square is big enough to hold one million people, while the historic Forbidden City is home to thousands of imperial rooms – and Beijing is still growing. The capital has witnessed the emergence of ever-higher rising towers, new restaurants and see-and-be-seen nightclubs. But at the same time, the city has managed to retain its very individual charm. The small tea houses in the backyards, the traditional fabric shops, the old temples and the noisy street restaurants make this city special.

Istanbul

It’s easy to lose yourself In Istanbul’s grandiose history, but modern Istanbul is a simmering metropolis, well worth a visit in its own right. The shopping is world class and the nightlife pulsates around Taksim Square. Even though Istanbul is no longer the capital, it’s still the country’s business and cultural centre, still the city where new trends are created.

Welcome to Helsinki!

Haugesund

The small town of Haugesund offers a broad spectrum of natural beauty, ranging from a vast and wild coastline to snow-capped mountains with cascading waterfalls flowing into the fjords. It is known as the Homeland of the Vikings, as the area used to hold the royal seat of ancient Viking Kings. Today it is a prime travel destination that encapsulates everything Norway has to offer: fjords, waterfalls, mountains, rugged coasts, and an eclectic city culture full of fascinating history and a forward-thinking spirit.

Holy Hamburg

Die Adventszeit ist für jeden einzelnen von uns die schönste Zeit des Jahres. Plätzchen und Schokolade zum Frühstück sind erlaubt, der Glühwein taut die Gemüter auf und ein Meer aus Lichtern verwandelt die graue Landschaft in eine funkelnde Traumwelt. Wieso also versuchen der schönsten Zeit des Jahres zu entfliehen? Es ist doch viel einfacher – und außerdem schöner – sich der Magie der Adventszeit hinzugeben. The Advent season is the most beautiful time of the year – for each one of us and for many different reasons. Biscuits and chocolate for breakfast are totally acceptable, mulled wine lights up the hearts and minds, and a sea of light transforms monochrome landscapes into a sparkling winter wonderland. So why would anyone wish to escape to sunnier climes? In fact, it is much easier – and more heart-warming – to truly immerse yourself in the magic of the festive period. #HolyHamburg