Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is one of Asia's best-kept secrets. As the capital of the only predominantly Catholic country in the Orient, it presents a unique blend that feels slightly out of place, yet vibrantly infused with Latin American and Caribbean influences. Music and dancing are ubiquitous, and the city's warmth and enthusiasm can easily rival that of Bangkok. Manila's rich history, shaped by centuries under Spanish religious influence and decades of American consumerism, has led to the saying that the city spent "400 years in a convent and 50 in Hollywood".

Discover Brian Head, Utah, a beacon for snow lovers perched at an elevation of 11,300 feet — one of the nation's highest ski resort towns. This winter wonderland welcomes a vibrant mix of vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts, drawn to the powdery slopes blanketed in an average of 350 inches of snow each year. Whether you're a first-time skier or a seasoned pro, Brian Head offers an unforgettable escape. Explore the slopes, hike through snowy trails, or simply bask in the natural beauty of this alpine paradise.

St Barts (Saint-Barthélemy) blends French sophistication with Caribbean ease across its 25 square kilometres of sun-drenched coves and scrub-covered hills. This petite island, nestled between St Martin and Guadeloupe, delivers outsized pleasures: from Michelin-worthy dining to yacht-filled harbours and powdery beaches framed by bougainvillea. Though favoured by jet-setters, its true wealth lies in preserved landscapes. Discover marine reserves, wind-sculpted cliffs, and that particular glow when golden hour gilds a rhum punch.

Shanghai is the shiniest gem in modern China’s jewel box. It’s a hip, contemporary city that charges into the future with all the energy of its famous Maglev train. At the same time, if you veer away from the sleek highways and glitzy shopping streets, you can still stumble upon a more traditional Shanghai, with all its character and flavour. In the tiny back streets, wet-market vendors peddle their wares — buckets of bright green vegetables, fish flapping in shallow plastic bowls, and heaps of crayfish crawling over each other.

Hold on tight! Sandusky is more than just a home for the legendary Cedar Point amusement park — it's a destination where thrills meet lakeside charm. Millions flock to experience the iconic roller coasters that have made Sandusky famous. Beyond the amusement park gates, a historic boating and fishing community thrives along the shores of Lake Erie. Discover Sandusky's downtown, where museums and shops line the streets, and seafood restaurants offer a taste of local flavor.