Nestled in the corner of rural south-west France stands Pau, the capital of the Béarn province, a bastion of history and culture. The town occupies a unique geographical position in the foothills of the Pyrenées. With its awe-inspiring views of the mountain range, Pau is only a few hundred kilometres from the major towns of Bordeaux and Toulouse and even closer to Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. A springboard to sunny beaches or snow-capped mountains, Pau’s pretty streets, and excellent gastronomy are enough to ensure leaving will be difficult.

Despite being Slovenia’s second largest city, Maribor has the charm of a small town where nature and city live in close proximity. Embraced on all sides by lush green hills which in winter turn white and are excellent for skiing, forests and vineyards, most within an easy walk from the centre, you can sample the cafes and restaurants and stroll through the vibrant streets of the old town. But the nearby hills are a constant reminder that nature is just a few steps away and a whole world of leisure awaits you.

Tirana is a mixture of Western Europe and old Russia, interspersed with influences from the Middle East. The city has overcome its recent troubled past and risen as a gem of Eastern Europe. The modern Tirana is full of restaurants, nightlife and hotels, and has rediscovered itself and become an energetic, vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is worth exploring.

In the heart of Chile, between Argentina and the South Pacific Ocean, lies the country's capital Santiago. Over a quarter of Chile's population call 'The City of the Island Hills' their home. Located in a valley consisting of broad and fertile lands, surrounded by vineyards and mountains, Santiago offers a cosmopolitan and energetic city life that is inseparably attached to its beautiful natural setting. Immerse yourself in the city's cultural and musical energy that is reflected in colourful neighbourhoods and a reinvigorated art scene.