Tinted in pink and lightened up by the Southern sun, Toulouse is a charming and lively city that often gets overlooked by tourists in favour of other French destinations. However, those who do visit will be treated to an enchanting experience. Toulouse boasts a rich history, modern vibrancy, and stunning architecture. The city is also an aerospace hub and takes pride in its strong culinary tradition. Its lush parks provide a peaceful escape while the Garonne River serves as a picturesque background for a delightful night stroll.

Santiago de Compostela has been a centre for culture and scholarship for centuries, most famous for being the end destination of a thousand-year-old pilgrimage: El Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James. Being the capital of the Galician region in north-western Spain, everyday life in Santiago is modern and chic. Awarded recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage City in 1985, Santiago de Compostela is a historical gem and one of the most impressive cities in Spain.

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.

If you fancy a hand of cards, Altenburg is the place for you: playing cards has been practised here for over 500 years, and the national card game ’skat’ was first played here. The town has a history of 1000 years, and boasts an impressive castle set on a rocky outcrop. Buy collapsible top hats on Rossplan Square, and baptise your cards at the Skat fountain: it brings good luck!

It only took Shenzhen 30 years to go from a little-known fishing village to an international metropolis. The expanding economy and countless opportunities attract people from all over the country to this young and dynamic city. With people flooding in, this tech hub has become a melting pot of various local cultures and the showcase of a younger China. Although Shenzhen doesn't have much historic heritage to speak of, it is certainly one of the most modern Chinese cities with great infrastructure.