Overlooked by spectacular heights of Table Mountain and surrounded by stunning beaches, lush farmland, and superb vineyards, Cape Town has established itself as South Africa’s cultural capital and one of the most vibrant cities on the continent. This is where African, European, and Asian cultures meet in a multi-ethnic rainbow reflected in its music, architecture, visual arts, as well as in its amazing choice of cuisines. Cape Town is great for partying as well, with a year-round calendar of festivals, parades, and world-class sporting events.

Baghdad remains a vibrant and colourful city despite recent hardships. The locals have steadfastly resisted the conflicts and violence, striving to keep their beloved city bustling with life, courage, personality and optimism. However, it is important to acknowledge that risks and dangers persist, and most world governments currently advise against leisure travel to the city.

Few places in Europe have remained off the beaten path as much as the Kosovar first city; fewer yet have been at the heart of a political dispute as agonising in recent history. Pristina, the capital of Kosovo, one of the world's youngest states, boasts a youthful populace to match, and exudes a lust for life that's virtually tangible. Still rough around the edges and with no tourist information offices in sight, Pristina remains uncharted territory, a state of affairs foreseen to change as the city attracts a growing number of visitors.

Phuket, surrounded by clear blue waters, offers everything for an unforgettable tropical getaway. Its palm-fringed beaches boast soft, pristine sand, while the vibrant nightlife pulses with energy. The island's diverse culinary scene means you can indulge in any dish you crave. Year after year, Phuket tops the travel charts as a holiday paradise—and with good reason. The island's stunning beauty, combined with the warmth of its people, makes it a destination travellers can't help but fall in love with.

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.