Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a charming medieval town nestled at the foot of the Alpilles mountains and surrounded by lush fields of olive trees, vineyards, and lavender fields. The town is renowned for its picturesque narrow streets, beautifully preserved historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. Saint-Rémy is home to a number of impressive Roman ruins, including the ancient city walls and the remains of a Roman aqueduct. It is also known as the birthplace of Nostradamus, the famous French astrologer and physician. Visitors can also explore the town's museums, galleries, and studios to discover the works of contemporary artists inspired by the area's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The best sandy beach in the region can be found just south of this pretty fishing port on Apulia's west coast, about 80 km (50 miles) south of Brindisi, where yet another medieval castle guards a fine natural harbour overlooked by old whitewashed houses. Gallipoli has plenty of places to stay suiting all budgets and some excellent fish restaurants.

A trip with a dog team, wrapped up in warm blankets under the northern lights, is a superb way of experiencing the countryside of Norrland. There's a good chance you’ll encounter an elk or a reindeer, too. There are four companies that offer dog sledding tours: Hedlunda Husky (www.hedlundahusky.se), Granö Beckasin (granobeckasin.com), River Lake Huskies (www.teamissa.se) and Aurora Borealis Adventures (auroraborealis.nu).

This evocative and moving museum commemorates the more than 60,000 non-white inhabitants of District Six who were expelled from this once multi-ethnic neighbourhood when it was declared a ‘whites only’ zone in the 1960s by the Apartheid government. It tells the stories of the forced removals and aims to help reconstruct the community of District Six.