Vibrant Cities

Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, an enchanting island lying off India’s southern tip. These city folks go about their daily business with a cheerfulness born of optimism in this chaotic, noisy and traffic-congested metropolis.

Antwerp, a busy pocket-sized metropolis, has something for everyone. The city is an inspiring source of culture thanks to its impressive architecture and magnificent museums and churches. Fashionistas can explore the stores of Antwerp’s designers, whose stylish creations are revered all over the world. And foodies and people with a passion for life in general will enjoy the warm welcome of Antwerp’s cafés and restaurants. A visit to Antwerp should definitely include the new museum MAS, the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Rubens House.

With its characteristic canals (UNESCO World Heritage) surrounded by narrow, low and crooked 17th-century houses, Amsterdam is, without a doubt, one of the most charming capital cities in Europe. The rich cultural life and a wide range of entertainment make Amsterdam a full-scale city which has managed to retain its small-town feel. With over 50 museums, of which many are famous across the globe, this city is a real treat for art-lovers: highlights include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum.

Known for its "Kiss-Me-Quick" hats, sticks of rock and the ubiquitous fish and chips, Blackpool has all this and more. With miles of golden sands, stunning Victorian architecture, a host of entertainment for young and old alike and the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District right at the doorstep, Blackpool enjoys a scenic setting and easily maintains its status as the unofficial entertainment capital of the North.

The site of former Indian, Portuguese and Dutch settlements, today’s Chennai was established by the British in the 17th century as a trading port. This colonial town, formerly known as Madras, has since grown into India’s fourth-largest city and the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This bustling and colorful Indian city is bound to have something on offer for everyone.

Beirut is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers: here, East and West intertwine in intricate ways, creating a city so magnetic that few are able to resist its powerful draw. Much has changed over the latter half of the twentieth century – Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War – but the city is alive and kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife and a close proximity to the ancient towns of Byblos and Baalbek.

Once only a small fishing village, Ayia Napa has become one of the world's best travel destinations, known as a cosmopolitan resort area. Located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, it is a town of great beauty, full of history and culture, with friendly and hospitable people. Nearby Protaras is a popular resort area with some of the world's best golden beaches, crystal clear waters and lively entertainment. Whether you are looking for fascinating history, vibrant culture and nightlife, astounding natural beauty or a relaxing beach vacation, together these areas make up one of the Mediterranean's most desirable destinations.

The low-rise Gambian capital might not be as advanced of a visitor hub as one would, perhaps, expect from a city of such national significance, but it certainly boasts some raw appeal contained within its pulsating and – at times – rather hectic streets. Beyond Banjul proper lies the sprawling Serekunda – Gambia's most populous area – and the vacationer-favoured coastal settlements of Kololi, Bakau, Koto and Fajara.