The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos stands out thanks to its unusually crisp white beaches and an exceptionally lush, fertile terrain. With none of the pretence of Mykonos or the ferocious partying of Kos, the island is a destination for those who enjoy a good hike and low-key evening entertainment. Naxos is also home to a fair share of ancient sites, off-lying mountain villages, and excellent family-run taverns.

Palm trees swaying in the wind, crystal turquoise seas, and seemingly endless stretches of talcum powder-white sand beaches, along with a distinctively laid-back way of life, characterise this beautiful island. Boracay offers everything from golf, trekking, sailing, and water sports such as windsurfing and scuba diving, to great hotels, gourmet restaurants, and festivals. Additionally, you can enjoy its fabulous beaches, including White Beach, which has been voted among the finest in the world.

For over two billion people worldwide, Mecca is the holiest site, revered as the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and the city where the Quran was revealed. Because of its profound religious significance, millions of Hajj pilgrims journey here every year from all corners of the globe, making Mecca one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in the Muslim world — a true melting pot of peoples and cultures. Remember that this holiest of cities, known as Makkah, is only accessible to Muslims.

Nestled in the corner of rural south-west France stands Pau, the capital of the Béarn province, a bastion of history and culture. The town occupies a unique geographical position in the foothills of the Pyrenées. With its awe-inspiring views of the mountain range, Pau is only a few hundred kilometres from the major towns of Bordeaux and Toulouse and even closer to Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. A springboard to sunny beaches or snow-capped mountains, Pau’s pretty streets, and excellent gastronomy are enough to ensure leaving will be difficult.