“Discover your true nature“: This motto is the central philosophy encompassing the tourist attractions offered at the renowned holiday destination of Garmisch-Partenkirchen all year round. In the midst of beautiful mountain views, the most famous town of the Bavarian Alps offers a wide variety of topnotch holidays. At the foot of Mount Zugspitze, nature is aImpressive, historic facades and lovingly painted houses are splendid and the charming inhabitants give the town its atmosphere.

In 1831, Charles Darwin sailed to South America aboard the H.M.S. Beagle. On the return voyage across the Pacific, the vessel stopped on a small group of islands far off the Ecuadorian coast, changing the course of human scientific endeavour and self-understanding forever. Fascinated by the unique wildlife on the islands, Darwin collected biological specimens and studied them over the next 30 years. His findings led to the formulation of the scientific theory of evolution by natural selection. This small group of islands and their one-of-a-kind wildlife are to thank for one of humanity's most remarkable discoveries. And today, almost 200 years later, they remain a source of endless fascination and a favourite travel destination for scientists, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, scuba divers, and anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

Speaking of Parma, the first things that come to mind are probably the ham and Parmesan cheese. Indeed, Parma is one of the most important culinary centres of Italy — but this city is so much more than that. Parma was the capital of a very powerful duchy, which left a legacy of stunning monuments and palaces. In addition, the splendour of that period created fertile grounds for the flourishing of art. In fact, Parma became one of the main centres for opera, thanks to its amazing theatres and its fine citizen Giuseppe Verdi.

Edged by mountain ranges, Canberra is a planned city built on vast limestone plains. Canberra is Australia’s national capital — the seat of the Federal Parliament and home to many institutions and national monuments. Four distinct seasons add to its charm, and visitors quickly discover that it really is Australia’s hidden gem. The surrounding countryside contains historic and picturesque rural villages and a burgeoning cool-climate wine industry.

Singapore is a fascinating melting pot where Eastern and Western cultures meet. The hypermodern buildings of the financial district blend in with Chinatown’s more traditional architecture. Owing to its roots as an old trading town, Singapore is a great place for anyone who wants to shop as the consumerist culture here runs deep. In addition, Singapore offers cuisine with influences from all corners of Asia, particularly India, that exceed the highest of expectations.