Moscow is a city of contrasts where the bohemian and the glamorous merge in an idiosyncratic fusion – do not be surprised to find a golden-domed 16th-century church next to an ultra-modern glass skyscraper or a Soviet blockhouse. Here, salty fish eggs (caviar) are washed down with bubbly champagne, and worn-out commuters travel by the elaborately decorated, elegant metro, one of the city's main attractions.

Santa Clara will forever be remembered as the site of the last battle of the Cuban Revolution, where Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara led a group of rebels in a mission to derail an armoured train, resulting in the definitive defeat of the Batista regime. And though bullet holes still bear witness to the hardships of the revolution, today, Santa Clara is a youthful and ferociously creative city, whose large student population contributes to the vibrant nightlife and artistic scenes, and a forward-thinking mentality, making it a unique place in Cuba.

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.

Often called the 21st arrondissement of Paris, Deauville has been the go-to destination for the upper crust of French society for decades. Today, it is a spectacular seaside resort town sporting grand promenades, glamorous casinos, a pair of thoroughbred horse race tracks, golf courses, the American Film Festival, and plenty of chic visitors.