Portlanders respond eagerly to the summons of the city's unofficial motto: "Keep Portland Weird." While the real Portland differs from the exaggerated version famously portrayed in Portlandia, some quirky traits do hold true. Known for its thriving food, beer, and coffee scenes, Portland blends creativity with whimsy. It's the hometown of culinary legend James Beard and offers unique experiences like weddings at doughnut shops, 'brew 'n' view' theaters, and even a vegan strip club.

The majestic 'City of Sails' is surrounded by water, which defines its sparkling appeal. The magnificent harbour is reminiscent of other famous waterside cities but with its own unique charm. Auckland has a rich maritime history, shaping its identity as a seafaring city. Auckland is relatively small geographically, which makes it a pleasure to explore on foot, and with its dynamic population, the city has more of a cosmopolitan, sophisticated feel to it and an easy, friendly atmosphere.

Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, may not be a typical tourist destination, but it has a charm all its own. The city is rough around the edges and lacks the tourist infrastructure of other cities, but it is precisely this uncharted quality that makes it so appealing to those who love off-the-beaten-path travel and are interested in the Soviet era. The people of Moldova are genuinely welcoming, and the cost of travel is extremely low, especially when compared to other European destinations. In addition, the country's famous wine is widely available and adds to the authentic experience.

A gateway between the two nations of the Iberian peninsula, Badajoz lies as close to Lisbon as it does to Madrid or Seville, and the city draws on influences from both sides of the border, as well as from centuries of tumultuous history, to form its distinctive character. Winding medieval alleys and a skyline dotted with palace towers make the historic town a sight to behold, while the remnants of the majestic Alcazaba watch over the city as they have for centuries, once an impenetrable fortress that protected the area from countless invasions.

The majestic Faisal Mosque stands against the backdrop of the lush Margalla Hills as a symbol of a Pakistan placed firmly in the modern day, while holding on to its history and traditions. The capital city of Islamabad is a forward-thinking metropolis nestled in the green Himalayas. Usually regarded as a diplomatic city, it has become an important business and financial centre for the region, as well as an emerging travel destination. Together with its neighbouring sister city of Rawalpindi, Islamabad gives travellers in-the-know a taste of contemporary Pakistan.