Sydney is Australia’s most iconic city, known for the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and beaches like Bondi. But there’s more beneath the postcard views: diverse neighbourhoods, a buzzing food scene, and a strong connection to culture, sport and the outdoors. The weather’s good most of the year, and the vibe is laid-back without trying too hard, which makes it easy to feel at home, even just for a while.

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".

On the banks of the Mekong River, Ho Chi Minh City emerges as a dazzling metropolis, where past and present collide in vibrant harmony. With over 9 million people bustling about, it’s a sprawling urban jungle where modern skyscrapers kiss the sky while well-preserved colonial buildings whisper tales of yesteryears. Amidst the chaos of motorbike symphonies, intrepid explorers uncover remnants of its turbulent history, savour its mouth-watering cuisine, sip on a cup of robust Vietnamese coffee, and discover its lively nightlife.

Irvine — Orange County’s meticulously planned center — has held the title of "America’s Safest Big City" since 2005. Beyond safety, it delivers quintessential Southern California experiences: upscale shopping, diverse dining, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly attractions. While neighboring Los Angeles pulses with urban energy, Irvine embodies OC’s suburban charm — think wide boulevards, outdoor malls, and easy beach access. Minutes from legendary surf spots and major attractions, it offers a polished alternative to LA’s bustle.