Over the past few decades, Newcastle upon Tyne, or simply Newcastle, has emerged as a prominent city in terms of technical innovation and culture, making it one of Great Britain’s most vibrant cities and a wonderful holiday destination with excellent shopping hot spots and even better nightlife. Connected by seven bridges that span the spectacular riverside, Newcastle (located on the north bank of the River Tyne) and Gateshead (a town situated on the south bank) together form a unified, diverse, and highly lively tourist destination.

You would never expect to step into Bavaria while visiting central Washington, but upon entering Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains, you will certainly feel as though you have been transported to Germany. Nearly a quarter of the town's residents can trace their ancestry back to Germany, and they have brought that Old World feel with them. Alpine-style buildings line the streets of this gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries. Though the town is small, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality.

European explorers took what today is Praslin Island's nature reserve to be the original Garden of Eden, and no wonder — the primeval forest of Vallee de Mai has changed little over millions of years, and giant Aldabra tortoises still roam the archipelago populated by an incredible diversity of endemic plant and animal species. Out of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles, only 12 are inhabited by humans, making for splendidly pure natural landscapes, unspoilt beaches, and some of the world's most fantastic diving spots.

Nestled within the mountains of the northern Thai countryside, Chiang Mai is a vibrant and modern city that holds close to its spiritual and natural roots. With its spectacular landscapes, delightful food, and hundreds of elaborate Buddhist temples, Chiang Mai has nothing to envy of its sibling Bangkok.

Framed by the stunning snowy peaks of the Apennine Mountains, Pescara is the gateway to the rugged mountainous area of the Abruzzo region. The land tumbles through hilltop villages and down to the blue waters of the Adriatic Ocean. In the town of Pescara itself, the long ten-mile stretches of wide, clean and sandy beaches, superb food and wine explain why it is a favourite holiday spot among many seeking to enjoy both beach-side relaxation and mountain adventures.