Sitting in the heart of the Kansai region, Osaka the third-largest city in Japan. It could be the proximity to Korea, China, and the coast that has made it become known as the "Kitchen of Japan". Osaka's people have a true zest for life. They promote a casual air and ease and are slightly, unconventionally boisterous. Osaka is regenerating, now recognising its past beauty and working hard to re-establish it. This stimulating city that works to live is now more than ever a must-see.

Linz an der Donau is a cultural metropolis, and an oasis of green. It is a place where nature, culture and business come together to form a harmonious whole. The 2009 European Capital of Culture sports the slogan 'Linz, verändert' ('Linz, changes'), and lives up to the slogan in full. A successful location for business, the city has emerged as an outstanding destination for culture, offering dynamism and high quality of life. The capital city of Upper Austria is a showcase for theatre and music, contemporary art, history and science.

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.

Located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, the once secluded area of Los Cabos has transformed itself into a popular international resort destination. Tourists flock to the region for its stunning beaches and the Corridor, a 33 km strip connecting the twin towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, both of which have a reputation for captivating visitors from all corners of the globe. Los Cabos is also the host of several well-known international events such as the Bisbee Black and Blue Marlin tournament and the SCORE Baja 1000 off-road race.

Just 250 kilometres north of the polar circle, the summer sun shines for almost two months without going down, while the polar nights offer the most intense Northern Lights that can be seen. In Kiruna, the northernmost city in Sweden, you can go slalom skiing until midsummer or spend the night in a magnificent hotel built from ice. The phrase "kingdom of contrasts" is overused, but Kiruna truly embodies it.