European explorers took what today is Praslin Island's nature reserve to be the original Garden of Eden, and no wonder — the primeval forest of Vallee de Mai has changed little over millions of years, and giant Aldabra tortoises still roam the archipelago populated by an incredible diversity of endemic plant and animal species. Out of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles, only 12 are inhabited by humans, making for splendidly pure natural landscapes, unspoilt beaches, and some of the world's most fantastic diving spots.

Windhoek is at Namibia's centre in more ways than one: apart from being the country's main political hub by design, it also happens to sit in its very heart geographically, making the city an easy stop over on the way to Namibia's spectacular natural attractions. Some of those include the Namib-Naukluft National Park, with its striking Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, Etosha National Park with free-roaming indigenous animals, and the endless stretch of ghastly, striking Skeleton Coast.

Seoul is a city of contrasts in which the ancient and the modern coexist in harmony. In one sense, it is a hi-tech 21st-century city awash with neon lights and the sights and sounds of a 24-hour metropolis, while at the same time, a city retaining the majesty and graceful ambience of ancient dynasties that once ruled over it. Like the river Han on which it sits, Seoul is constantly moving as it strides boldly into the future, yet simultaneously managing to keep one foot firmly entrenched in its historical past.

Just ten degrees north of the equator, Quepos offers a rich mix of rainforests, waterfalls, and the Pacific coast. Named after the Quepoa people who once lived here, the town serves as the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, with its mangroves, lagoons, and beach-lined forests. Quepos is a place where nature’s variety and beauty invite outdoor lovers to explore and soak in its wild charm.

Mention of Pilsen most often evokes beer and the famous legend that gave name to all its types more than 170 years ago. However, the city has more to offer, as the historical city centre features plenty of gems reminding of its rich history: the Gothic St Bartholomew‘s Cathedral with the highest church tower in the Czech Republic, Renaissance City Hall, the labyrinth of corridors of the Pilsen Historical Underground, Franciscan Monastery, and the unique Great Synagogue, which is the fourth largest synagogue in the whole wide world.