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.

The largest and southernmost Channel Island, Jersey, offers a unique mix of English and French influences. It boasts quaint fishing villages like St Aubin, with stunning sandy beaches and scenic coastal walks. Island life is full of festivals, with a local seasonal event being celebrated almost every month. The capital city, Saint Helier, is small but cosmopolitan, with a bustling harbour atmosphere.

Sitting proudly on the shores of Hakata Bay, Fukuoka is a city ablaze with the neon glare of the 21st century, moving at a slower and much more manageable pace than its better-known siblings from Honshu. There are plenty of Japanese flavours to be had here, both figuratively and in the very direct sense of the word, along with a lot of uniquely local flair for those looking to cast their nets wider than the staples of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's dynamic capital and largest city, you’ll discover towering skyscrapers alongside lush green parks and vibrant street markets. Whether you're exploring the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, savouring diverse flavours at a roadside hawker stall, or soaking up the city's rich cultural tapestry, KL promises a mesmerising mix of experiences that captivate and charm visitors from around the world. Gastronomy connoisseurs broaden their palates, party animals find sanctuaries, and nature-lovers are wowed.