There’s something very special about Gotland. It might be the light, the beaches and the ever present sea. The fact that the island is one of the sunniest places in Sweden – even in November – certainly helps. Or it could be the cultural heritage, the history you can see and feel everywhere. Or the people: down-to-earth, hospitable folk who make the most of life. Perhaps it’s the bustling street life in the walled city of Visby, or the scenery, the open and inviting landscape. You’re welcome to discover and explore this one-of-a-kind island.

Though it might get overlooked in favour of larger, more glamorous cities, like Riyadh or nearby Doha, the discerning traveller will not want to pass up the opportunity to visit Dammam. As if the stunning desert scenery alone was not enough to enchant visitors, the city also offers heaps of fine dining, great shopping, and some of the most pleasant green spaces, parks and seaside walkways you are likely to find at a desert destination.

Founded nearly eight centuries ago, Indonesia’s second-largest city has seen empires come and go. The founders of the Hindu Majapahit Empire arrived in the late 13th century and remained until the 17th, to be followed by Muslim rulers of Mataram, then the colonialists of the Dutch East India Company. In recent decades, Surabaya has grown into a cosmopolitan seaport and conurbation where 21st-century hotels, apartment towers, and shopping malls stand next to historic mosques and palaces.

A gem of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is a vibrant city that doubles as a paradise for vacationing families from all over Europe. The coast is sprinkled with enticing beaches, a myriad of budget-friendly and upscale hotels, and restaurants aplenty. And for those wanting a break from the all-inclusive poolside days, a wealth of intriguing ancient sites awaits nearby.