A well preserved, colonnaded medieaval old town with its world renowned Golden Roof. Right next to this there's a brightly coloured, sparkling imperial palace, the Hofburg - baroque and monumental. A stone’s throw away is the Hofkirche, a court church containing larger-than-life bronze statues, the Schwarze Mander, standing guard around the (empty) tomb of Emperor Maximilian I., a truly breath-taking sight and unique in Europe. High above this superb architecture towers the Nordkette, a magnificent mountain range between 2300 and 2500 m.

Beirut is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers: here, East and West intertwine in intricate ways, creating a city so magnetic that few are able to resist its powerful draw. Much has changed over the latter half of the twentieth century—Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War—but the city is alive and kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife and close proximity to the ancient towns of Byblos and Baalbek.

The beating heart of the Indian state of Gujarat, Ahmedabad has managed to preserve its cultural integrity through the centuries, remaining relatively unaffected by British colonial rule. Little developed by the tourism industry, the city remains a true hidden gem inhabited by remarkably hospitable Gurajatis, teeming with exquisite historic temples, renowned universities, and world-class vegetarian eateries able to convert diners of the most carnivorous persuasion.

You would never expect to step into Bavaria while visiting central Washington, but upon entering Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains, you will certainly feel as though you have been transported to Germany. Nearly a quarter of the town's residents can trace their ancestry back to Germany, and they have brought that Old World feel with them. Alpine-style buildings line the streets of this gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries. Though the town is small, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality.