Once a cozy fishing village of only a few thousand people, Bodrum has experienced a renaissance in the last half century that has transformed this once-sleepy community into one of Turkey's most popular vacation hotspots. Writers, intellectuals, artists and musicians have long called this Aegean town home, or second-home, attracting a vibrant cultural scene paralleled only by the town's nightlife. Windswept beaches and glittering waters provide the backdrop to the perfect beach getaway.

Don’t expect a booming nightclub scene in Icmeler—but for the travellers who’ve discovered this Turkish beach resort, that’s a huge plus. Take a boat trip to a nearby island, savor fresh seafood in a beachside café, or just soak up the sun.

You’ll have three beaches to choose from in Lindos: calm Pallas Beach, secluded St. Paul’s Bay, and the main beach, Megali Paralia. Save time to explore the town itself, too. It’s a bit of a hike up to the acropolis, but the view is magnificent.

Cyprus' second-largest city appeals to a wide range of tourists, from those interested in sun and sand vacations to those who prefer to delve into the island's culture at its museums and sites of archaeological interest. This large seaside resort on Akrotiri Bay on the sunny southern coast offers lively nightlife and a slew of energetic festivals. A cornucopia of cafes and bars lines the bustling seafront. Accommodation options range from villas and self-catering apartments to luxurious hotels.

Staré Mesto, the Old Town of Slovakia's capital, whisks visitors back a few centuries as they wander through cobbled streets, admire the Baroque architecture, enjoy summer and Christmas concerts at Old Town Hall and while away time at cafés and restaurants. Venture beyond for more sites, including the 15th-century hrad (castle) with its treasury and museums of history and music, the Slovak National Theatre and the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Slovak National Gallery, housed in an 18th-century palace.

About 10 miles north of Nuremberg, Erlangen is the home of the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (Friedrich-Alexander-University), founded in 1742. Just over 100,000 people live here, about a third of whom are involved with the university; about another third work for the Siemens corporation. Bergkirchweih, Erlangen’s annual festival - akin to Munich’s Oktoberfest - opens in a different beer cellar every year and is attended by over a million people in its twelve-day run around Pentecost.

Bournemouth’s seven miles of beach and exceptionally warm microclimate make it a favourite of U.K. travellers. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re a watersports fanatic (try surfing lessons!) or just want to let your kids splash around in the calm waters. For a traditional Bournemouth holiday, rent a classic beach hut.

Bangkok is full of exquisitely decorated Buddhist temples—as you go from one to the next you’ll be continually blown away by the craftsmanship and elabourate details. But if you’d rather seek enlightenment in a gourmet meal, or dance the night away, you’ll also enjoy Bangkok—the restaurant and nightclub scenes here are among the best in the world.