Palm trees provide a periphery of greens and browns as shadows run along the otherwise snow-capped contours of the mountain ranges. It is clear to visitors why Hollywood stars took Palm Springs as their refuge during the 1920s. The resort town has long remained a getaway for the upwardly mobile—garnering the nickname of “Hollywood's Hideaway”—and has since blossomed into an accessible vacation destination for those seeking lavish leisure among a host of natural and man-made attractions.

Australia’s highest peaks are in the Snowy Mountains, where there’s thrilling downhill skiing and snowboarding during the snow season. Lively towns and resorts in this alpine region in the Southwest NSW are also popular destinations in warmer months for hiking, horse riding, kayaking, mountain biking and fishing. When spring melts the snow into cascading waters and wildflowers bloom, streams shelter trout and attract many fly fishermen. Vineyards in this beautiful region produce excellent cool-climate wines, and fresh produce is on sale at farm gates.

European explorers took what today is Praslin Island's nature reserve to be the original Garden of Eden, and no wonder — the primeval forest of Vallee de Mai has changed little over millions of years, and giant Aldabra tortoises still roam the archipelago populated by an incredible diversity of endemic plant and animal species. Out of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles, only 12 are inhabited by humans, making for splendidly pure natural landscapes, unspoilt beaches, and some of the world's most fantastic diving spots.

Escape to the sun-kissed shores of the Palm Beaches, where 15 distinct districts beckon with luxurious resorts, world-class dining, and trendy boutiques. With 47 miles of pristine coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, the Palm Beaches offer a playground for recreation. Explore the vibrant nightlife, discover the natural beauty of the Everglades, or simply bask in the year-round warm weather. The Palm Beaches are calling — your perfect paradise awaits.

Few cities match the iconic status that Paris holds in the imagination of travellers. In fashion, gastronomy, and the arts, she is queen. As you wander through the different quartiers of the City of Light, her moods shift from gritty to sophisticated, from haute couture to underground. There is always something new to discover here beyond the legendary sights and museums. Paris has a way of getting under your skin, feeling instantly familiar as you lose yourself in her hypnotic streets and linger at her cafés.