Saarbrücken, Germany's small jewel lying on the French border, is Saarland's charming and amicable capital that has some truly intriguing stories to tell: a plethora of Roman and Baroque landmarks, all scattered along the Saar river, speak of the region's eventful past.

Glasgow is the 21st-century magnet of Great Britain, with an energetic yet sophisticated vibe. Formerly Britain's major centre of industrial prowess, it has transformed into a booming hub for art and culture in the past decades. The city prides itself on a never-ending stream of up-and-coming musicians and a thriving nightlife. Glasgow is also home to many excellent modern Scottish restaurants dedicated to preserving their Scottish heritage. Some of the best shopping in the country can be found here, too.

Lying near the Hungarian and Serbian borders, Timisoara is the gateway to the West and has a long history of cosmopolitan multiculturalism. It's the birthplace of the 1989 Romanian Revolution that ended the Ceauşescu's dictatorship, an important centre in recent Romanian history. It is a green, pleasant and walkable city with cosy cafes, lively markets and interesting museums, offering plenty of entertainment to fill your time, whether you are visiting for a day or a week.

Cape Verde's unique geographic location, tumultuous history of slavery and invasion, and fascinating mix of transatlantic cultures have given rise to a place unlike any other on the globe. A place as joyful as it is full of longing, a fact perhaps best reflected in Cape Verdean music and the hauntingly beautiful 'morna'. The sometimes harsh, drought-prone conditions of this mid-Atlantic scattering of islands have seen the flourishing of a fascinating Creole culture and the most stable democracy in Africa.

Sandwiched between the sea and the Ligurian hills, Genoa is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Its history is a fascinating tapestry of triumphs and setbacks, as reflected in the city's rich architecture. As the European Capital of Culture in 2004, Genoa boasts an impressive collection of museums and galleries, as well as a renowned theatre and the largest aquarium in Europe. The city has also good shopping, the best nightlife in the region, and excellent restaurants. And for those looking to explore beyond the city limits, day trips along the picturesque Ligurian coast come highly recommended.