Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, may not be a typical tourist destination, but it has a charm all its own. The city is rough around the edges and lacks the tourist infrastructure of other cities, but it is precisely this uncharted quality that makes it so appealing to those who love off-the-beaten-path travel and are interested in the Soviet era. The people of Moldova are genuinely welcoming, and the cost of travel is extremely low, especially when compared to other European destinations. In addition, the country's famous wine is widely available and adds to the authentic experience.

Phoenix is in the unique position of having warm weather year round. While temperatures do reach upwards of 100 degrees in the summer months, it’s dry heat you can breathe—without the downfalls of humidity! Phoenix is also the most populous state capital in the U.S., which translates to a richly diverse collection of cultures and activities. And perhaps most spectacularly, every drive or stroll through the city is accompanied by a backdrop of the Sonoran Desert, sandy mountain ranges and eternal blue skies.

Xi'an was once called Chang'an, the City of Long-lasting Peace. The city was the capital of the legendary Tang Dynasty, as well as 13 other dynasties, and the legendary ancient Silk Road started here. The variety of folk handicrafts that greets the visitor is bewildering. With all this heritage behind it, Xi'an stands proud even in the face of its modernisation, a spectacular testament to the magnificent legacy the Chinese are so proud of.

Rockhampton is known by many as the unofficial capital of Central Queensland and as the official beef capital of Australia, with three million head of cattle calling the region home. With its historic buildings and tree-lined streets facing the Fitzroy River, Rockhampton is a great place to visit. Its location on the Tropic of Capricorn gives the city over 300 days of sunshine a year. Enjoy the beaches of the Capricorn Coast, or explore the region’s national parks and caves.

The majestic Faisal Mosque stands against the backdrop of the lush Margalla Hills as a symbol of a Pakistan placed firmly in the modern day, while holding on to its history and traditions. The capital city of Islamabad is a forward-thinking metropolis nestled in the green Himalayas. Usually regarded as a diplomatic city, it has become an important business and financial centre for the region, as well as an emerging travel destination. Together with its neighbouring sister city of Rawalpindi, Islamabad gives travellers in-the-know a taste of contemporary Pakistan.