High on the southern tip of Corsica, only a few kilometres across the water from Sardinia lies the medieval town of Bonifacio. Shimmering sea, steep white limestone cliffs and fine sand add to the resplendent natural landscape here. The warmth of the climate is mirrored in that of the inhabitants and much like the thousands of visitors that pass through every year, they remain enamoured with this city steeped in history.

Nestled in the corner of rural south-west France stands Pau, the capital of the Béarn province, a bastion of history and culture. The town occupies a unique geographical position in the foothills of the Pyrenées. With its awe-inspiring views of the mountain range, Pau is only a few hundred kilometres from the major towns of Bordeaux and Toulouse and even closer to Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. A springboard to sunny beaches or snow-capped mountains, Pau’s pretty streets, and excellent gastronomy are enough to ensure leaving will be difficult.

Hilton Head Island, on the southern coast of South Carolina, is filled with beautiful ocean views, antebellum relics, beds of oysters, and Southern charm. Everything about the island speaks of posh sophistication with a laid back attitude. Out on the ocean waters you can see trawlers and other boats. In the canals and inlets, yachts are frequently floating and enjoying the sunny weather. Golf courses designed by some of the sport's finest players abound, as do alligators sunning themselves in sand traps and small ponds.

Long isolated from the outside world, Bhutan is a relic of a more traditional Asia, preserved in time and with little in the way of tourist infrastructure. In an increasingly connected world, this small, beautiful, and utterly enchanting Himalayan country is one of the last truly off-the-beaten-path destinations on the planet. It is a challenging country to visit, but to those who choose to venture there, it soon reveals itself to be an especially rewarding one, as well.

Blessed with 26 white sandy beaches, a vast blue bay and many tranquil inlets, Port Stephens is an idyllic destination about 2.5 hours north of Sydney. With a marine park rich in diversity, the area is famous for its resident dolphins, crystal clear waters and towering sand dunes. Daily dolphin-watching cruises depart from Nelson Bay and the ocean is great for watching whales during their annual migration. Charming towns are framed by bushland, wetlands and volcanic peaks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local wines in delightful settings.