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.

Although it is Malaysia’s smallest state, Penang Island (Pulau Pinang) is one of Asia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations, reflecting the influences of half a dozen cultures. Located off the west coast of the Malaysian peninsula and connected by road bridges, the island is the birthplace of tourism in Malaysia. Come for great beaches, a mellow climate, and a colourful collection of attractions, many claiming to be the largest, tallest, longest, or oldest of their kind.

Once a humble fishing lodge, Whistler has always captivated adventurous spirits. Nestled in the jagged ice-covered Coast Mountains of British Columbia, this vibrant resort community hosted the world during the 2010 Winter Games. Today, Whistler-Blackcomb's slopes beckon skiers and snowboarders, while its trails invite hikers and mountain bikers to explore its natural beauty. Discover the allure that transformed Whistler into an international haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

For over a century, guaranteed snow, hospitality, tradition and sophisticated tranquillity have been attracting winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world to Lech Zürs am Arlberg. It is one of the select group of twelve villages known as the "Best of the Alps". It is not only ambitious sportspeople who appreciate this heavenly winter landscape. The winter season 2016/2017 also has plenty to offer walkers, gourmets and culture lovers. Ski Arlberg provides an unparalleled skiing experience with a total of 87 cable cars and lifts, 305 kilometres of ski runs and 200 kilometres of high Alpine deep powder snow runs.

“El diau, el diau!” “The devil! The devil!” It was in 1897 when mountain people from Sauze d’Oulx witnessed a red-faced man with a long white beard descending from the slopes, with long wooden skis attached to his feet. He was a Swiss engineer, Adolf Kind, and wooden skis were then first seen in Italy. Today there are more than a hundred ski-lifts and 1,500 km of slopes for all levels – as well as alpine skiing, sledges and huskies, telemark skiing and snowboarding.