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.

The heart of the Turkish Republic, Ankara, is the second largest city of Turkey after Istanbul. The city lies on the border where east between west. The European and Middle Eastern cultures merged and coloured the city's architecture, food, wine, nightlife, fashion and arts. Drop the anchor in Ankara, as its name suggests, cross the border between tradition and modernity.

Naples' ancient streets echo its Greco-Roman heritage, while its vibrant neighbourhoods pulse with modern Italian energy. Discover the famous Mount Vesuvius, explore picturesque castles, museums, and churches, savour sumptuous Neapolitan cuisine, and take a day trip to the charming island of Capri, Naples' unique blend of tradition and vitality makes it an unforgettable destination for art, history, and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Palm trees provide a periphery of greens and browns as shadows run along the otherwise snow-capped contours of the mountain ranges. It is clear to visitors why Hollywood stars took Palm Springs as their refuge during the 1920s. The resort town has long remained a getaway for the upwardly mobile—garnering the nickname of “Hollywood's Hideaway”—and has since blossomed into an accessible vacation destination for those seeking lavish leisure among a host of natural and man-made attractions.

Chania (pronounced “Hanya”) is considered the loveliest port town in Greece. Swallows soar in sheer blue skies above the semicircle of tall Venetian houses around its picture-perfect Old Harbour. The tables of scores of bars and restaurants line the quayside. Behind the harbour front, narrow, traffic-free shopping lanes thread through the atmospheric Old Town. On either side of the town, sandy beaches stretch along the coast.