Vibrant Cities

Cape Verde

Cape Verde's unique geographic location, tumultuous history of slavery and invasion, and fascinating mix of transatlantic cultures have given rise to a place unlike any other on the globe. A place as joyful as it is full of longing, a fact perhaps best reflected in Cape Verdean music and the hauntingly beautiful 'morna'. The sometimes harsh, drought-prone conditions of this mid-Atlantic scattering of islands have seen the flourishing of a fascinating Creole culture and the most stable democracy in Africa.

Doha

Already well-known as a business travel destination, Doha, the capital of the State of Qatar, has emerged in recent years as a rapidly developing tourist destination as well. A modern country built on the deep cultural roots of its Bedouin heritage, Qatar presents visitors with a kaleidoscope of fascinating contrasts and experiences; from the tranquillity of the desert to the lively alleys of the souq, from the impressive coastal fortresses to the dramatic high-rise towers, and from the deserted sandy beaches and mangrove lagoons to the elegant residential districts and green parks.

Hangzhou

Like Yin and Yang, Hangzhou, the capital city of the Zhejiang Province, has two sides that complete each other. This historic city is a showcase for traditional medicine, religion and art as well as a shining example of China’s rapid economic development. Combining idyllic natural beauty, a grand heritage through the ages and an air of affluence, Hangzhou is one of the country’s most livable and pleasant cities to linger in.

Discover Amersfoort

Amersfoort is a beautiful city located in the middle of the country, which makes it the perfect city to discover the Netherlands. Its biggest treasure is its history. You can really feel the medieval city that was established in the 13th Century through the many monuments, little streets, canals and details. The historical city is surrounded by beautiful swathes of nature, which makes it a unique city. Amersfoort is the easiest city to reach in the Netherlands, both by car and by train. It’s only 30 minutes to Schiphol Airport! Fans of history will immediately feel at home in Amersfoort. The city obtained its city rights in 1259, and the history is still clearly visible in the centre. There are 650 monuments, like the Koppelpoort, the Onze Lieve Vrouwe tower and the Wall Houses, which are all worth the visit. More than a million tourists, both Dutch and from abroad, visit the city annually, who love to visit these historical highlights.

Amersfoort from above

Discover the beauty of Amersfoort from above!

Melbourne

Melbourne is an artistic powerhouse with a vibrant and multicultural soul. Nicknamed "Paris of the southern hemisphere", Melbourne is not only known to be Australia’s cultural hotspot, but is also famous for its major sporting events and its culinary delights from all across the world. With its high-rise city centre and far-reaching suburbs, it is hard not to be dragged in by the life of the capital of Victoria, but day trips to the wild nature of the state are also extremely attractive.

Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is one of Asia's best-kept secrets. As the capital of the only predominantly Catholic country in the Orient, it presents a unique blend that feels slightly out of place, yet vibrantly infused with Latin American and Caribbean influences. Music and dancing are ubiquitous, and the city's warmth and enthusiasm can easily rival that of Bangkok. Manila's rich history, shaped by centuries under Spanish religious influence and decades of American consumerism, has led to the saying that the city spent "400 years in a convent and 50 in Hollywood".

Ho Chi Minh City

On the banks of the Mekong River, Ho Chi Minh City emerges as a dazzling metropolis, where past and present collide in vibrant harmony. With over 9 million people bustling about, it’s a sprawling urban jungle where modern skyscrapers kiss the sky while well-preserved colonial buildings whisper tales of yesteryears. Amidst the chaos of motorbike symphonies, intrepid explorers uncover remnants of its turbulent history, savour its mouth-watering cuisine, sip on a cup of robust Vietnamese coffee, and discover its lively nightlife.

48 hours in Rotterdam

A couple of days in Rotterdam? Keen to explore Rotterdam but not sure where to start? Let this video inspire you and discover how you can get the most out of Rotterdam in 48 hours.

Dhaka

Hectic, bustling, chaotic — Dhaka is an enormous city of endless possibilities with energy to spare. Though it can seem a bit overwhelming at first, visitors who take the time to explore will find the experience most rewarding. Delicious food, bustling markets, serene parks and gardens, lazy river cruises and death-defying rickshaw rides, fascinating museums, temples and mosques to ease the soul, and tantalising musical and dance performances; all this and more awaits the adventurous traveller who dares to venture into this unique city.

Hamburg Cruise Days

Look forward to a superlative cruise ship event from August 1 - 3, 2014: the Hamburg Cruise Days offer impressive ships at close quarters and live cruise feeling – a stunning three days simply packed with maritime atmosphere, delicious food and drink, and great entertainment. Six cruise ships will be calling in on Hamburg during the Hamburg Cruise Days to anchor in the port. The Blue Port illuminations by artist Michael Batz will bathe the harbour in a magical blue light, the dockside itself will become a cruise experience, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed stroll through different themed islands with culinary highlights prepared by some of the city’s best restaurants.