Cultural

Japan is a fusion of the ultra-modern and the ancient, a country of temples and traditions as well as soaring skylines and futuristic bullet trains. Osaka is no exception.  The iconic 16th-century Osaka Castle – the symbol of the city – with its famous five-layer donjon, which cascades down from its central tower, is set in 60,000 sq m of lawns with cherry blossom trees.

Non-drivers can still enjoy striking panoramas on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. The route encompasses an impressive 91 tunnels and 291 bridges.  Take the Wilhelm Tell Express via the Magadino Plain, and admire the three grand medieval castles of Bellinzona which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Pass through the medieval town of Schaffhausen and the 400-year-old Fortress of Munot, and look out for the 13th-century Hohenklingen Castle at Stien am Rhein.

Singapore is a spectacular land of marvellous modern wonders that will take your breath away.  From the observation wheel and skywalks among the Supertrees, to a giant indoor waterfall and a river safari theme park, Singapore has a variety of attractions to suit every need – as such, the Garden City should be on everyone’s list of must-visit destinations.

Tenerife offers much more than mass tourism, sun loungers and neon cocktails. As one of the Canary Islands Tenerife can offer a different type of short. If you want to spend most of your time on two legs soaking up the panoramic views at La Gomera's Garajonay National park, the 'cloud forest' or two wheels in the La Esperanza Forest, it is here; relax at a small guest house away from the crowd.

Which island hosts the largest free festival in Europe that has attracted the likes of Snoop Dogg, Lady Gaga and Flo Rida? Where do you think Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Thor actor Chris Hemsworth takes a break to explore the depths of the ocean?  The answer is Med-hot Malta – the upcoming go-to destinations for discerning travellers (and celebrities), because it offers 300 days of sun, affordable luxury, picturesque resorts with an abundance of water sports and great nightlife.

Childhood holidays are the source of some of our most enduring memories: long summers, days by the seaside playing in the sand and sea, the scratch of sunscream being rubbed in over sandy arms and legs.  Why not make this summer's holiday one to remember with a car journey in France, starting from the seaside and ends with your children meeting all their favourite Disney character?

Canada is big – so big that it can be difficult to work out how to see everything you want to see. But a well-planned short break will allow you to enjoy the best of the lakes, mountains, forests, waterfalls and vibrant cities that this land of adventure offers.  The thundering sound of torrents of raging water dramatically rushing over the spectacular Niagara Falls sending a misty spray high into the air, probably tops everyone’s list of unforgettable must-see-sights on a trip to Canada.

Head to the Dalmatian coast for host of activity, whatever you are into its collection of islands have something for you.  Using Split as your base you can enjoy its local beaches or walk its cobbled streets learning about the regions local history, walk the scenes of award winning show Game or Thrones. Foodie lovers can try the local fish carpaccio with a glass of its local wines.  There are activities for nature lovers and those who want an adrenalin kick.

The people of Palma know how to start summer with a bang. Each June the day before the Fiesta of St. Juan, residents of the Majorcan capital celebrate with the Nit de Foc (Night of Fire).  Even though the temperature in this region has been rising for several months by now, this midsummer's eve mayhem marks the official beginning of the season.

Take your car out of the city this weekend and discover the English countryside. We have found five sites that are rich in history and natural beauty. Visit the Cheddar Man site, stand on top of the highest point in South East England or visit the land of witches. So full your tank with petrol and leave it all behind as you discover the English countryside.