Situated picturesquely on the River Foyle, surrounded by hills and a stone’s throw away from the rugged Northern Coast, Derry is a city steeped in history. The famous Free Derry Corner and the murals of the Bogside and Fountain areas serve as reminders of Derry's tumultuous political past turned mindful present epitomised in the "Hands Across the Divide" monument. Today, 20 years after Bloody Sunday, the 2013 UK City of Culture has a lot to offer visitors in the way of art, culture, gastronomy and entertainment.

Located in the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht captivates with medieval charm, scenic canals and historic districts like Oudegracht. Utrecht seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, seen in its diverse cultural attractions, trendy boutiques, and vibrant markets. With a dynamic atmosphere shaped by both ancient structures and contemporary architecture, the city takes pride in having a prominent university, creating a lively mix of residents and students.

Sitting proudly on the shores of Hakata Bay, Fukuoka is a city ablaze with the neon glare of the 21st century, moving at a slower and much more manageable pace than its better-known siblings from Honshu. There are plenty of Japanese flavours to be had here, both figuratively and in the very direct sense of the word, along with a lot of uniquely local flair for those looking to cast their nets wider than the staples of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.

Following in the steps of its fellow northeastern cities within the early Colonies, the city of Concord was established around the spirit of unity, harmony, and friendship. As the name “Concord” actually means “with harmony,” these characteristics are seen all over the city. Residential, business, industrial, and historical elements are all blended to make Concord an impressive cocktail of evolution and tradition. The city is home to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, which hosts many NASCAR races each year, as well as several historic sites.