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.

Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, was one of the great mercantile cities in the Middle Ages. The Old Town island, surrounded by the river Trave and the canal, today still communicates the charm of a port. Travemünde is one of the most beautiful sea resorts of Europe which already in 1802 transformed the former fishing- and sailor village into a top address for bathers from near and far. The fascinating sailing Old-timer “Passat”, chugging deep-sea fishing boats and gigantic ferryboats can be admired on the Baltic Sea.

It is easy to overlook this small island nation, having, as it does, such powerful and flashy neighbours like Qatar and the Emirates. However, ignoring Bahrain would be a huge mistake. It is an emerging power in the region, with all the luxury and worldliness of a cosmopolitan destination and all the charm and personality of a small island. Add to this the growing art scene and burgeoning international cuisine in the country, and you have the newest prime travel destination in the region, and the most socially liberal one.

Once a peripheral backwater district, Langkawi has transformed into a major tourist destination, drawing visitors with its pristine tropical beaches and natural attractions. In 2008, the archipelago was aptly renamed 'Langkawi Permata Kedah', meaning 'Langkawi, the jewel of Kedah'. This name captures the essence of Langkawi — a true tropical paradise waiting to be explored.