Pretoria is a vision of purple, thanks to its plethora of blossoming trees that gave the South African metropolis its nickname: Jacaranda City. Give in to the animal magnetism of the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, then get up close and personal with the big, bad kitties of the Cheetah Research and Breeding Centre. The buildings of Pretoria reflect diverse architectural styles and influences, creating a unique urban landscape.

A beach town on the Arabian Sea in southern India, Kovalam features three spectacular crescent beaches. The most popular and largest beach is Lighthouse Beach, aptly named for its 30-metre lighthouse, which features a stunning site - the Vizhinjam mosque. For a less crowded beach, visit Samudra Beach, with ample coconut trees and great views of the local fishermen at work.

Visitors are drawn to the golden sand beaches of Wadduwa, on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The lush beauty of coconut plantations gives Wadduwa an undiscovered, exotic feel—perfect for someone seeking a tranquil vacation in Sri Lanka.

The waters surrounding the small village of Oludeniz are an achingly beautiful gradient of blue. Sapphire meets seafoam green at the shoreline, where stretches of white sand are dotted with leisurely sunbathers. The scenery is even more gorgeous from above—Oludeniz is renowned as one of the world’s top spots for paragliding.

Long fought over by warring empires, the city of Yerevan survived centuries of foreign occupation, finally becoming independent with the fall of the Soviet Union. This capital city, a center of Armenian culture, has celebrated its freedom with a flurry of construction and a growing population. Despite this push forward, history survives in Yerevan - The Institute of Ancient Manuscripts houses books dating back to the 9th century, and the ruins of the Erebuni Fortress, built in 782 BC, still stand.

Founded by the caliph of Cordoba, this Andalucian city on Spain’s southeast coast is a reminder of the region’s Muslim history. The Alcazaba, a massive fort, dominates the city and affords amazing views. Also worth experiencing are the cathedral and the Almeria Museum. East of the city is the rugged, desolate Cabo de Gata-Nijar coast, a protected area. To the west is the resort area of Roquetas de Mar, featuring vast beaches.

A laid-back resort town on Majorca's eastern shores, Cala Millor offers sun, sea, and scenery on par with its west-coast sisters—but without the bacchanalian behaviour. Instead, a vast beach, rocky coves, and relaxed bars cater to families in search of a stress-free sojourn.