Drop anchor in Karlskrona, the city founded in 1680, when Charles XI decided to build the country's new naval base here. 340 years later, the naval base remains, and the well-preserved architecture and city plan impressed Unesco, which gave Karlskrona World Heritage status in 1998. Wherever you go, you can see magnificent churches and squares, parade streets and fortifications that attract visitors from all over the world. All this on several islands in an archipelago that Unesco has designated as one of seven biosphere reserves in Sweden.

Bucharest is Europe’s best kept secret. While visually it can't quite compete with other grand Eastern European capitals, it leads the pack in dynamism, energy and forward momentum. The remnants of Communism are still palpable in the urban fabric, but the city has its sights set firmly on the future. Trendy outdoor cafes and high-street shops live side-by-side with gorgeous Orthodox churches and world-class art galleries in the old town, all overlooked by the imposing Palace of Parliament.

Nestled in the turquoise Ionian Sea, Corfu is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the Greek islands. Wildflowers, cypress, and olive trees paint a beautiful landscape, complementing the stunning sandy beaches. The west coast delights with small coves embraced by cliffs and trees, while the north unveils a rocky coastline, crystal clear waters carving pebbled bays and coves. Immerse yourself in ancient ruins, savour delectable Greek cuisine, and revel in the splendour of this unforgettable island paradise.

The narrow and often steep granite-paved streets of Cagliari’s Castello District are a reminder of a bygone age when the town was dominated at first by Pisans, and later by the Aragonese. Built from white limestone, the walls and towers of the Old Town shimmer in the sun and are a magnificent sight, especially if you are lucky and approach the city from the sea, as the English novelist D.H. Lawrence did in 1921 when he described the Old Town as looking like a "Jerusalem without trees".

Experience the Olympic spirit in Olympic Valley, California, where the legendary slopes of the 1960 Winter Games continue to inspire. Decades later, skiers and snowboarders of all levels flock to this iconic destination, carving their own paths through the Sierra Nevada's breathtaking scenery. Explore the same slopes that challenged Olympic athletes, discover trails suited to your skill level, or simply bask in the vibrant atmosphere of this world-renowned resort.