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.

Just a short distance from London, on the southern coast of Great Britain, lies the charming resort town of Brighton. Heralded as one of the world's hippest and most cultural, this seaside city never fails to mesmerise visitors with its unique architecture, pleasant festivals, galleries, museums, drama, arts, music, spectacular outdoor activities, sprawling beaches and so much more.

A Swedish ski resort comparable with the mountain villages in the Alps, Åre has seen an increasing number of visitors every year. With a total piste length of 95 kilometres, around 100 descents, 40 lifts, almost 50 restaurants and over 30 bars and nightclubs, it is arguably Sweden’s number one ski resort.

The city and the countryside, the old and the new, high culture and the downright gritty — whatever you are looking for, Taipei has everything today’s discerning traveller could wish for. Set in a natural basin amongst lush green mountains, the city is just a stone's throw away from unspoiled beaches and wild coastline, and boasts all the distractions a modern metropolis can offer while at the same time providing a glimpse into its ancient past.