With its unique mix of Creole culture and European cosmopolitanism, the French overseas territory of Martinique, and in particular its capital Fort-de-France, has just the right blend of tradition and sophistication. A fast-developing city boasting first-class shopping and dining as well as a bustling urban life. But the main draw to this Caribbean island remains its surrounding natural beauty made up of lush tropical rain forests, an active volcanic mountain, and picture-perfect beaches, which have captivated visitors for centuries.

Once a sleepy regional capital, Bangalore today is a modern metropolis that will come as a big surprise to those visiting for the first time. Also known as Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, is the technological hub of India and the very place where the country’s new, confident global identity is being forged. Although the city might somewhat lack historical sites, its buzzing and liberal atmosphere provides the perfect base for exploring the beautiful temples and palaces of the Deccan.

Shanghai is the shiniest gem in modern China’s jewel box. It’s a hip, contemporary city that charges into the future with all the energy of its famous Maglev train. At the same time, if you veer away from the sleek highways and glitzy shopping streets, you can still stumble upon a more traditional Shanghai, with all its character and flavour. In the tiny back streets, wet-market vendors peddle their wares — buckets of bright green vegetables, fish flapping in shallow plastic bowls, and heaps of crayfish crawling over each other.

Discover Brindisi, a sun-drenched jewel on the Adriatic Sea and the beating heart of Italy's Apulia region. More than just a coastal beauty, Brindisi serves as a living museum to a myriad of vanished civilisations. Picture yourself strolling along ancient Roman roads, gazing up at majestic Gothic and Baroque cathedrals, or getting lost in the imposing shadows of Swabian castles from the era of Frederick II, the Holy Roman Emperor. With every step you're walking through centuries of layered history. Come for the sea, stay for a journey back in time.