Formerly known as Madras, Chennai has a history involving Indian, Portuguese, and Dutch settlements before becoming a significant British trading port in the 17th century. As time progressed, Chennai has grown significantly. It is now India’s fourth-largest city by population and serves as the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. From historical landmarks and temples to modern amenities and lively markets, this bustling and colourful Indian city is bound to have something on offer for everyone.

Bergerac, in the heart of the Périgord Dordogne region, is an ancient and compact city, characterised by its elegant medieval and Renaissance buildings. Gourmet restaurants, street entertainment, and the fact that the whole city can be explored on foot are all part of its charm. Bergerac is also renowned for its wine, and a short trip to the outskirts of the city reveals a landscape of vineyards that produce some of the world’s finest vintages.

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".

Historically an important trading centre, Peshawar lies near the Khyber Pass, a key route of the legendary Silk Road and gateway to the Indian subcontinent, travelled by conquerors and explorers. The Storytellers Bazaar (Qissa Khawani Bazaar) is a captivating reminder of the city’s role in world trade. Peshawar is the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province where things remain volatile, but recent trends indicate a decline in criminality and a budding resurgence of urban life.

Skopje is internationally famous for being the birthplace of Mother Teresa. The city is welcoming and locals demonstrate a hospitable attitude towards visitors. Despite the fairly recent political turmoil in the Balkans, Skopje has blossomed into a thriving, stimulating city to explore, defining itself as an exciting tourist destination.