Just a mere 38-minute journey from Stockholm, Uppsala is a city that dances between the beats of urban vibrancy and the soothing rhythm of a tranquil town. The city unfolds its rich history through iconic landmarks such as Uppsala Cathedral and Uppsala Castle. It’s also home to Scandinavia's oldest university and engaging museums offering glimpses into bygone eras. A dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity, Uppsala invites travellers to savour the seamless coexistence of the old and the new in this lively tapestry of cultural significance.

In 1831, Charles Darwin sailed to South America aboard the H.M.S. Beagle. On the return voyage across the Pacific, the vessel stopped on a small group of islands far off the Ecuadorian coast, changing the course of human scientific endeavour and self-understanding forever. Fascinated by the unique wildlife on the islands, Darwin collected biological specimens and studied them over the next 30 years. His findings led to the formulation of the scientific theory of evolution by natural selection. This small group of islands and their one-of-a-kind wildlife are to thank for one of humanity's most remarkable discoveries. And today, almost 200 years later, they remain a source of endless fascination and a favourite travel destination for scientists, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, scuba divers, and anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

With golden sand, cool water, and a gentle sea breeze, the second largest of the Canary Islands attracts huge numbers of sun-worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. The island itself has much more to offer, from barren desert scenery and fascinating volcanoes to colourful and characterful towns and pleasant harbour promenades.

Shanghai is the shiniest gem in modern China’s jewel box. It’s a hip, contemporary city that charges into the future with all the energy of its famous Maglev train. At the same time, if you veer away from the sleek highways and glitzy shopping streets, you can still stumble upon a more traditional Shanghai, with all its character and flavour. In the tiny back streets, wet-market vendors peddle their wares — buckets of bright green vegetables, fish flapping in shallow plastic bowls, and heaps of crayfish crawling over each other.

One of the jewels of northern Spain, Bilbao is a city full of surprises and delights. It boasts a unique blend of tradition and modernity, which is reflected in its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and outstanding cuisine. At its heart lies the magnificent Guggenheim Museum, one of the most impressive structures in the world. Its streets are alive with the sound of Euskara, Europe's oldest and most enigmatic language, while the Casco Viejo (Old Town) is full of traditional bars for sampling pintxos.