Shopper's Paradise

Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is one of Asia's best-kept secrets. As the capital of the only predominantly Catholic country in the Orient, it presents a unique blend that feels slightly out of place, yet vibrantly infused with Latin American and Caribbean influences. Music and dancing are ubiquitous, and the city's warmth and enthusiasm can easily rival that of Bangkok. Manila's rich history, shaped by centuries under Spanish religious influence and decades of American consumerism, has led to the saying that the city spent "400 years in a convent and 50 in Hollywood".

Amersfoort

Amersfoort is a beautiful city located in the middle of the Netherlands in the province of Utrecht. Through numerous monuments, cosy little streets, canals and architectural details you can really feel the medieval core of the city, established here in the 13th century. The compact city is surrounded with lush swathes of nature. Amersfoort is the conveniently reachable, both by car and by train. It’s only 30 minutes to Schiphol Airport!

Gothenburg

The beauty of Gothenburg becomes apparent as you walk around the harbour and city centre and explore the different neighbourhoods that lend the area a pleasant and relaxing vibe. Countless cafés grace the street corners and world-class restaurants delight with expertly-prepared dishes showcasing the freshest ingredients. Gothenburg offers year-round excitement, with attractions such as the Liseberg amusement park, the renowned Göteborg Film Festival, and the acclaimed Way Out West music festival, ensuring there's always something extraordinary to discover and enjoy.

Guest of Honour

Adaeze won a competition to be London's Official Guest of Honour and spent two unforgettable weeks in London experiencing the very best the capital has to offer. Watch highlights from Adaeze’s trip of a lifetime, from flying first class from her hometown in California; to raising Tower Bridge, attending a Royal Premiere, seeing London from a helicopter, and watching her name appear in the Piccadilly Circus lights! Watch brand new footage from Adaeze’s trip. Look out for some very special guest appearances from Professor Stephen Hawking, Mayor of London Boris Johnson, Downton Abbey star Jim Carter, Michelin star chef Jason Atherton, tennis ace Tim Henman, and British ballerina, Darcey Bussell.

Food & Fun

The Food & Fun festival combines extraordinary culinary talent with a selection of fine Icelandic ingredients, add to that Reykjavik's world famous nightlife and countless adventures in the great outdoors and you have the ultimate recipe for fun! The essential component of the festival involves world-renowned chefs collaborating with Reykjavik's finest restaurants, and as an extra serving of food and fun, chefs compete to create a three-course meal using exclusively Icelandic ingredients. The Food & Fun Festival will take place for the 13th time between February 26th and March 2nd 2014. www.foodandfun.is

Trivandrum

Kerala’s first city, with its knotty official name of Thiruvananthapuram (often substituted by the shorter, more manageable Trivandrum), is a rich introduction to southern India's urban and cultural life. Trivandrum tends to be unjustly overlooked en route to the state's beachside settlements but easily warrants a few days of its own.

Fes

Known as one of the imperial cities of Morocco, the opulent city of Fès is the country's oldest city, and it is split into two areas – Fès-el-Bali (Old Fes) and Fès-el-Djedid (New Fes) – as some mystical fusion of an ancient Islamic past and the French-influenced present. The endless Medina, which contains 9,500 streets, sells everything from jewellery to furniture, crafts, carpets, leather goods and spices.

Haugesund

The small town of Haugesun boasts a broad spectrum of natural beauty, ranging from a vast and wild coastline to snow-capped mountains with cascading waterfalls flowing into the fjords. Haugesund 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.

Reykjavik Fashion Festival

The Reykjavik Fashion Festival provides a platform for emerging Icelandic designers to collaborate with creative minds from different disciplines, providing a unique fashion experience. So jump on-board and don't miss this rare opportunity to be a part of Iceland's biggest fashion event! March 27-30, 2014 www.rff.is

Osaka

Sitting in the heart of the Kansai region is Osaka, the third-largest city in Japan. It could be the proximity to Korea, China, and the coast that has made it become known as the "Kitchen of Japan". Osaka's people have a true zest for life. They promote a casual ambience and are slightly, unconventionally boisterous. Osaka is regenerating, now recognising its past beauty and working hard to re-establish it. This stimulating city is now more than ever a must-see.

How To Do London: The Basics

Whether it's your first time visiting London, or if you've been before, learn how to do London like a local. From how to use an oyster card to travel around the city, to ideas for things to do including how to beat the queues, we've got it covered.