Rio de Janeiro — the city’s name alone conjures up images of pristine beaches, lush forests, and thrilling celebrations. Sitting on top of the Corcovado Mountain, Christ the Redeemer watches over the two-faced party capital of Latin America, split between a bustling urban landscape and an outstanding natural environment. Rio is a city like no other, known worldwide for its magnificent New Year firework display on Copacabana beach, its explosive carnival, its joyful people, and its exquisite multicultural cuisine.

Blessed with 26 white sandy beaches, a vast blue bay and many tranquil inlets, Port Stephens is an idyllic destination about 2.5 hours north of Sydney. With a marine park rich in diversity, the area is famous for its resident dolphins, crystal clear waters and towering sand dunes. Daily dolphin-watching cruises depart from Nelson Bay and the ocean is great for watching whales during their annual migration. Charming towns are framed by bushland, wetlands and volcanic peaks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local wines in delightful settings.

Kungsbacka is situated in the heart of the West Coast, just 20 minutes south of Gothenburg. With great sights, fine shopping, lovely nature and 80 km of coast with attractive beaches, Kungsbacka has something for everyone. Kungsbacka has been repeatedly recognized as Sweden's most pleasant shopping destinations. At Hede Fashion Outlet, you'll find well-known brands at bargain prices. The cosy city centre hosts a market on the first Thursday of every month. The Kungsbacka River winds through the town and flows into the fjord. Across the fjord, right by the sea, lies Tjolöholm Castle, Sweden's only Tudor-style castle.

The heart of the Turkish Republic, Ankara, is the second largest city of Turkey after Istanbul. The city lies on the border where east between west. The European and Middle Eastern cultures merged and coloured the city's architecture, food, wine, nightlife, fashion and arts. Drop the anchor in Ankara, as its name suggests, cross the border between tradition and modernity.

You would never expect to step into Bavaria while visiting central Washington, but upon entering Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains, you will certainly feel as though you have been transported to Germany. Nearly a quarter of the town's residents can trace their ancestry back to Germany, and they have brought that Old World feel with them. Alpine-style buildings line the streets of this gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries. Though the town is small, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality.