Historical destinations

Having survived almost three decades of conflict and division, Belfast is now emerging from its chrysalis with a newfound freshness and vibrancy. Carrying a deep sense of its history, yet boldly striding into the future, Belfast is an exciting juxtaposition of old and new. Stroll by the River Lagan and see the birthplace of the infamous Titanic, visit the famous political murals in a black taxi or kick back with a traditional music session in one of this lively city’s beautifully preserved old pubs.

Glasgow is the 21st-century magnet of Great Britain, with an energetic, yet sophisticated vibe. Formerly Britain's major centre of industrial prowess, it has been rapidly transforming into a booming hub for art and culture in the past decades and prides itself on a never-ending stream of up-and-coming musicians and a thriving nightlife. Glasgow is also home to many excellent modern Scottish restaurants dedicated to preserving their Scottish heritage, and some of the best shopping in the country.

Doncaster is an eclectic mix of the urban and the rural, and of the old and the new. World-famous for its horse racing and home to one of the most important race courses in the UK, Doncaster is one of Britain’s oldest cities, featuring an abundance of historic sights, interesting architecture and cultural activities, all in a beautiful countryside setting.

Cardiff, Europe’s youngest capital city, is famous for its castle, art, dragons, river, Victorian arcades, parks, rugby, music, university, bay and Brains beer. A more diverse list you could not imagine, so whether you are an art lover or rugby fan, enjoy historical castles or modern architecture, like listening to philharmonic orchestras or new bands in pubs, Cardiff really does offer something for everyone.

Blaine, Washington is perfectly placed for the ultimate escape. Positioned 35 miles south of Vancouver, British Columbia and 110 miles north of bustling Seattle, Blaine certainly carves out its own stake in bliss. In addition to a reputation for being an incredibly clean, safe town, Blaine glistens in natural beauty. Over a dozen parks are fit for bird watching, biking, and trailblazing, while a handful of manicured golf courses also add to an itinerary of outdoor recreation.

The majestic Faisal Mosque stands against the backdrop of the lush Margalla Hills as a symbol of a Pakistan placed firmly in the modern day, while holding on to its history and traditions. The capital city of Islamabad is a forward-thinking metropolis nestled among the green base of the Himalayas, and though it has traditionally been thought of mainly as a diplomatic city, it has recently grown to become an important business and financial centre for the region, as well as an emerging travel destination, one which, together with its neighbouring sister city of Rawalpindi, gives travelers in-the-know a taste of all sides of contemporary Pakistan.

Sharjah, the not-so-obvious UAE destination for many, unjustly remains in the shadows of its glistening immediate neighbor of Dubai. In the meantime, few are aware Sharjah was named Capital of Islamic Culture (2014) and Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO sixteen years prior - and for good reason. Sharjah's Heritage Area is home to multiple historic sites and museums, and the Emirate itself boasts recent, modern additions to its art and entertainment scenes enough to compensate for the strict "no-alcohol" regulations.