Where the Nissan river meets the sea lies Halmstad — a delightful mix of vibrancy and small-town charm, salty beaches and tranquil fresh waters. Several beaches, besides the well-known Tylösand, line the four-mile coast. The city centre is cosy, where small shops intermingle with a charming café and restaurant scene. Halmstad boasts a varied and rich array of events for all ages, year-round. Art is ever-present, featuring works by, among others, Milles and Picasso. Whoever you are, whatever you want to do, Halmstad has the experience for you.

Crown jewel of the Italian Riviera, Portofino lies between two gulfs creating a picturesque hamlet embedded in a Natural Reserve, a protected area that houses Mediterranean flora and fauna. Myriad of pastel colours tint the houses that overlook the Ligurian Sea, in a scenic view of nature's blessings blending perfectly with human handwork. The port bustles with yachts and little boats in a display of luxury, so no wonder that the once fishing village of Portofino has become a favourite among VIPs.

Cuba's quintessential holiday destination is steadily regaining former glory, striding forward to the future where it will once again rank among the finest beach resorts in the Caribbean. Varadero is far from a synthetic vacationer theme park some hold it for - the town is home to nearly 20,000 Cubans and exudes local flavour despite being primarily known for its first-class luxury hotels.

Beirut is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers: here, East and West intertwine in intricate ways, creating a city so magnetic that few are able to resist its powerful draw. Much has changed over the latter half of the twentieth century—Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War—but the city is alive and kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife and close proximity to the ancient towns of Byblos and Baalbek.