Adventure

Delicate bridges and waterways weave in and out of old brick and glass buildings, and outdoor cafes line every road. There are hen and stag dos a-plenty, and hitting the main drag in Old Centre to party hard is definitely part of the experience, as is strolling through the infamous Red Light District where purring women push themselves up against windows beckoning in paying customers. When you're looking to chill out, visit the mesmerising Van Gogh Museum or kick back with a spliff. Yes, it's legal here - and all part of the, er, cultural experience. 

Chances are when you think of Jordan, you're more likely to imagine deserts and ancient monuments than canyoning in a river valley in the world's lowest nature reserve.  But while star destination like Petra deservedly takes the spotlight, Jordan has more than a few surprising attractions which are still off the beaten tourist track. Now with budget flights to the country's capital Amman, it's easier and cheaper than ever to discover the country. 

Few places can offer such a unique city break as Seattle. If New York is about polished, high-octane energy and glamour, then creative Seattle is its Hipster young sibling. Known for being the birthplace of Kurt Cobain and the early grunge scene and home to the very first Starbucks, Seattle also gained fame as the setting for 90s sitcom Fraiser and the movie, 10 Things I Hate About You. But there's so much more to this city, which buzzes with culture and hidden gems.

Central Dalmatia abounds in gorgeous landscapes, endless beaches and numerous options for active holidays. A wide array of beautiful beaches and opportunities for adrenaline-filled adventures combine with iconic old settlements, towns and picturesque islands to make Split-Dalmatia County the ultimate destination for travellers of all ages and interests.

Wellness tourism is nothing new in Slovenia. It's countryside is seriously idyllic - especially in and around Lake Bled to the mountainous nations north-west. It was here that pioneering Swiss wellness expert Dr Arnold Rikli established a 'healing institute' in 1855, prescribing a strict meat-and-booze-free diet, and a routine of hikes in the hills and swims in the lake, much of which was to be done naked for maximum sun exposure.

Sprawling, bustling and just a little bit grimy, Athens is one hell of a city where ancient wonders meet modern metropolis. Visit this time of year and discover hugely discounted hostels and hotel rooms, and fewer tourists. The cooler temperatures mean you can enjoy viewing ancient sights without suffering the searing heat of the summer months.

Sandwiched between Guadeloupe and Martinique Dominica is the Nature Island of the Caribbean, which means exactly what you think it does: it's home to more flora and fauna than you can shake your binoculars at. Throw in plenty of soft adventure, thermal springs, an emerging culinary scene and a famously healthy local lifestyle, and it's no wonder Dominica is reputed to be one of the best destinations for wellness on the planet - the island has the highest number of centenarians per capita in the world.  Whether you're after long hikes, a diving paradise, jazz music or simply fancy yourself one of Captain Jack Sparrow's crew in Pirates of the Caribbean, Dominica has got you covered. Here are just a few of the activities you might get up to.

Pristine Coastlines, A terracotta-coloured desert and the dramatic, awe-inspiring vistas of the Hajar mountains - when you visit Ras Al Khaimah you can soak up the sunshine against spectacular backdrops almost all year round. So wether you’re looking for a holiday with thrills, somewhere to chill, a place to connect with nature, or a break that’s great for the whole family, Ras Al Khaimah is full of surprises to be discovered.

Are you a 'zip-lining through the rainforest' kind of traveller? Or do you prefer your explorations to move at a more sloth-like pace, with walks on hanging bridges in the treetops and dips in mineral-rich volcanic hot springs?

Either way, you can do it all in Costa Rica. The small, lush country is perfect for adventures, courtesy of its sultry rainforests and cool cloud forests, and shires lapped by both the glistening Caribbean Sea to the east and the surf-friendly waves of the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Europe is sprinkled with magical islands harbouring ports, sandy beaches, fresh seafood and rich histories.  Menorca is arguably one of the lesser-known of the Balearic Islands - with Ibiza's clubs and Mallorca's package holidays hogging the limelight - but this little island is quietly and steadily making itself known. It lures in couples looking for a chilled-out gateway and groups of friends wanting to explore this small part of Europe at their own pace. P.S. Drinking of wine is mandatory.