Prosperity and extensive growth in the late 19th century was brought to Katowice by the coal and steel industry, turning it into a Silesian metropolis. Today heavy industry has disappeared, and new small businesses are creating a flourishing, modern city. Walk the beautiful old township of Nikiszowiec during the day and be inspired by art and music all over the city. Drop into the lovely shops, and when the evening comes be prepared to spend a long night dancing.

In his first trip to the stupendous region, Christopher Columbus noted the silver-tipped appearance of the area’s prominent mountain. As “plata” is Spanish for “silver”, Columbus christened it “Monte de Plata”, and the city became known as Puerto de Plata. Luring vacationers much as it had Columbus, Puerto Plata is one of the Dominican Republic’s most renowned cities. Lending to a bright culture of friendly people and recreational activities, Puerto Plata will exceed even your wildest and greatest of expectations.

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.

High on the southern tip of Corsica, only a few kilometres across the water from Sardinia lies the medieval town of Bonifacio. Shimmering sea, steep white limestone cliffs and fine sand add to the resplendent natural landscape here. The warmth of the climate is mirrored in that of the inhabitants and much like the thousands of visitors that pass through every year, they remain enamoured with this city steeped in history.

The capital city of New Zealand rests between rolling hills and a rugged coastline on the southern tip of the North Island. As well as offering some of the best urban views in the country, the city is popular for its arts and culture. Wellington is home to the National Museum (Te Papa), the national opera and ballet companies, and is the heart of the nation’s film and fashion scenes. With more restaurants and cafés per head than New York, Wellington also offers a unique gastronomic experience.