Charismatic seaside Catania is a young, dynamic soul, inhabiting a body of narrow alleys and ornate Baroque buildings set atop well-preserved remains of ancient Greek and Roman settlements. Mount Etna defines the cityscape both in terms of the striking panorama and the building material — Catania is even referred to as the "grey city" for the colour of lava rocks used to construct many of its buildings.

Shimmering like a precious stone in the fierce desert sun, the city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital and main financial hub, is a complex mix of dualisms that will intrigue the intrepid traveller. A modern cutting-edge metropolis that boldly strides towards the future, yet a city firmly rooted in the traditions of its historical past. Known as the 'Queen of the Desert', Riyadh will captivate every suitor with its desert landscapes and lush green oases, its ancient monuments, and the renowned Arabic hospitality of its residents.

Escape to Chiriquí, known as the "breadbasket" of Panama, where you'll find a mix of stunning landscapes and activities. Fertile mountains and rolling hills, rocky rivers and coffee plantations — there's something for everyone. The province also boasts pristine beaches and islands with excellent sports fishing opportunities. The thriving David City is there when you're ready for a bit of urban life. Located in western Panama, Chiriquí is bordered by Bocas del Toro to the north, Costa Rica to the west, Veraguas to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

Kerala’s first city, with its knotty official name of Thiruvananthapuram (often substituted by the shorter, more manageable Trivandrum), is a rich introduction to southern India's urban and cultural life. Trivandrum tends to be unjustly overlooked en route to the state's beachside settlements but easily warrants a few days of its own.