Sun-drenched Spain is the perfect destination for beach and pool relaxation without the long flight. Fancy a spot of culture? Head to Barcelona for eclectic architecture and tasty tapas, or glitzy Marbella for yacht spotting and upscale nightlife. Looking for family fun? The Canary Islands have the answer, with sun, sea and sand to take you from dawn to dusk.

It’s undeniable: Norway is one of the most beautiful countries on earth and it’s ripe for adventure. Feel small against the sheer walls of the shimmering fjords and sample unusual fusion cuisine in the neighbourhood restaurants of Oslo. Adrenaline chasers will love the sports on offer here - from hiking, cycling and white-water rafting in the summer months, to skiing, snowmobiling and dog-sledding in winter. If wildlife catches your attention, travel north to Svalbard to spot polar bears, reindeer and Arctic foxes, on what feels like the very edge of the world.

Ominous peaks, a rugged coastline and the ethereal magic of the Northern Lights make a visit to Iceland like entering another world. Charming Reykjavik makes the perfect base for a jaunt out to some of the geothermal wonders of northern Europe. Head to the Golden Circle for thunderous waterfalls and bubbling geysers, before soak away the day in the enveloping Blue Lagoon. Icelandic adventures are utterly unforgettable.

Ultimate sophistication awaits you on holiday in France. Paris is famed for its world-class art and architecture, while Nice pulls you in with its Mediterranean magnetism, Nicoise cuisine and endless waterfront. Wander vineyards and shaded boulevards in Bordeaux, or head to Monaco for yachting, racing thrills and luxurious resorts. Honeymooning? France is just the spot. Bon voyage!

With miles of glittering coastline, beautiful weather and al fresco dining galore, Croatia is a summer playground. Be inspired by the baroque finery of old town Dubrovnik and take the plunge at Plitvice Lakes. Head to the azure waters of the Adriatic at Split - a city thronging with bars and restaurants and the gateway to a coastline speckled with islands waiting to be explored.

With its singsong cities and the calm waters of the Mediterranean, its melding of cultures and abundance of warm sands, Turkey offers the ultimate in summer holidays. Istanbul is the beating heart of the country, with its towering minarets and delectable cuisine. Those after beaches will be delighted by Dalman and the proximity of charming Antalya to the Turkish Riviera.

Portugal is a rich treat for the senses. Start your trip with a city break in laid-back Lisbon, with its produce-filled markets, excellent museums and atmospheric cobbled alleyways. Indulge in fine wines in hilly Porto and take a river cruise into cinematic Douro. Ready to relax? Escape to the bountiful coastline of the Algarve for gorgeous beaches and world-class golf.

For a small island, Malta sure packs a punch. This burgeoning country is becoming more popular with younger crowds, drawn by its festivals and restaurant scene. Stay in a smart townhouse in baroque Valletta, or head to Gozo for remote resorts, stretches of sand and scuba diving. Whatever you choose to do, there’ll hardly be a cloud in the sky.

Windswept, salty and sunkissed. That’s what you’ll be after sailing from one Greek island to another. Spend your days on soft sand beaches, dropping into traditional taverns for souvlaki and a sip of ouzo. Revel in complete luxury in resorts in sapphire-roofed Santorini, or head to Crete or Corfu for quaint fishing villages and haunting archaeological ruins. This ancient country offers holidaymakers an experience straight off a postcard.

Spanning spectacular scenery and historic cities, myriad cultures and mashed-up cuisines, the United Kingdom offers hidden delights to every type of traveller. Whether you’re after the bright lights and showstopping sights of London, a quintessential seaside holiday in Cornwall or the rugged charm of a five-star break in the Scottish Highlands, a holiday in the UK will open your eyes to charms you never knew existed.

At the crossroads of East and West, Bosnia is diverse, welcoming and utterly beautiful. The rejuvenated centre of Sarajevo offers vibrant art, cafes that spill out into the street and the domes and minarets of the Ottoman past. Venture to picture-perfect Mostar for the iconic Stari Most bridge and five-star hospitality.

Switzerland is known for the finer things in life. Wherever you stay, there’ll be lakes to wade in, mountains to gaze on, medieval towns to wander through and fondue to feast on. Head to Zermatt for glitzy resorts and views of the Matterhorn, or to cosmopolitan San Moritz to kick back in ultimate in alpine luxury.

After a compact city break? The Netherlands should be top of your list. Its most famous city Amsterdam, cut through with canals, is packed with art, boutiques and candlelit cafes that make for the ultimate ‘gezellig’ or cosy feeling. Head to the Hague for a more high-end take on the country, with its excellent shopping, smart hotels and short distance to sun and sand on the North Sea.

Indulgent cuisine, romantic vistas, breathtaking lake scapes and ancient civilizations. That’s Italy. Whether you go for the cultural riches of Rome or Venice, the peaceful pace of Lake Como or the sophisticated style of the Amalfi Coast, this beautiful and inspiring country offers an enormous slice of la dolce vita.

A holiday through Germany stirs the soul. In this fairytale land, grass is greener, beer is crisper, architecture is prettier. Head to Berlin for everything from high-brow opera to underground clubbing, Turkish kebabs to Michelin-star dining. Munich has a more laid-back attitude and some of the most grand hotels in Germany for a well-deserved treat.

Steeped in myth and legend, a hub for watersports and host to an agreeable climate almost year round, Cyprus is a top European destination. Rest and recharge in Larnaca, with its seaside promenade and small-town feel. Or base yourself in ancient Paphos, where historic sightseeing meets lazy beach days under the sun.

A trip to Austria allows you to set your own pace. Waltz between the two powerhouses of Austrian culture - Vienna with its majestic music halls, fine restaurants and coffee house culture and grand Salzburg, home of Mozart and the Mirabell Gardens. Escape to a landscape of mythical mountains and glittering ice caves, where you can experience lake life and the ultimate in scenic hiking.

With the golden sands of its Mediterranean coast and the holy site of Kairouan, Tunisia offers a beach destination with a slice of ancient history. Seek out souvenirs in maze-like medinas and venture into the desert in a 4x4, before returning to a feast - a heady mix of North African and French influences against the backdrop of a glorious sunset.

Take the age-old nomad trail through ancient deserts, between awe-inspiring mountains to the rich cities of Morocco. Marvel at soaring minarets and step into shaded riads, welcomed by warm hospitality. A true heritage trip, Morocco will leave an imprint on your memory.

A tale of many parts, Kenya spans vast savannah, palm-fringed beaches and snow-capped peaks. It’s home to some of the most vibrant people on earth, who maintain their time-honoured traditions even as the modern world creeps in. Want to step back in time? Visit Kenya.

Pure adventure. That’s what a trip to Tanzania offers. Watch wildebeest stampede across the Serengeti. Experience the rhythm of traditional dance. Marvel at the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro. For the finest beaches in all of Africa, head to the island of Zanzibar, to simply swim, snorkel and dream away the day.

Everything about Egypt is mighty - from the great pyramids to the wide Nile. Add to that a magical desert, a storied culture and one of the largest concentrations of Islamic architectural treasures, it’s an enticing destination for even the most well-trodden traveller.

Eclectic cities, magnificent creatures, breathtaking beaches and wondrous hikes. That’s South Africa. Whether you go for the contemporary buzz of Cape Town, the ultimate luxury of a savannah lodge or an iconic Big Five safari, this diverse country offers adventures for all the family to treasure forever.

Nature enthusiasts find their paradise on Madagascar. This idyllic island is home to landscapes of incredible diversity and more outdoor pursuits than you can dream of. For a more peaceful pace, you’ll find remote resorts and luxurious retreats in the Shangri-La of the Indian Ocean.

The home of safari. There’s no greater place on earth to experience the glory of the natural world. With sumptuous lodges, exclusive experiences and a front-row seat for wildlife, a holiday in Botswana is utterly unforgettable.

The birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia offers a spiritual experience. Mecca and Medina welcome you as Islam’s holiest cities. Marvel at this country’s ancient treasures - the carved temples of Mada’in Saleh and rock art at Jubbah. The Red Sea calls to be bathed in and, in the south, the beautiful Asir, with its jaw-dropping mountain backdrop speckled with villages, awaits discovery.

From desert camping under the night sky to off-roading in the majestic mountains, Oman offers a quintessential Arabian experience. Get lost in the buzz of the capital Muscat, with its warm hospitality and bustling souks, or head to the coast for dolphin and turtle spotting. If it’s luxury you’re after, Oman has it in spades - think private beaches and world-class resorts with every imaginable personal touch.

Beyond Doha’s futuristic skyline and world-class culinary scene, a holiday in Qatar offers desert adventure. Head into the dunes to learn about the ancient fascination with falconry, watch camels lope across the sands and spend a night in a luxury tent. Return to the city to soak up pure luxury in Doha’s harbour-front hotels. The best of both worlds.

This mosaic of states offers a kaleidoscope of culture and character. Head for the opulence of Dubai, where you’ll find sumptuous hotels and bustling souks in abundance. For tradition preserved, visit Sharjah with its raft of stirring museums and absorbing heritage area. For natural beauty, peaceful Fujairah can’t be beaten, with its craggy Hajar mountains a backdrop to golden sands.

Go on a journey through time in Palestine, winding your way from fragrant Jericho, oldest city in the world, to the ancient site of Bethlethem. There you’ll receive a warm welcome from the locals and find lively arts and an excellent farm-to-table restaurant scene. Beyond the cities is a treasure trove of nature trails, Roman ruins and the Sea of Galilee with its raft of luxury hotels. An unorthodox trip, but a rewarding one.

History comes alive in Jordan. If ancient relics and mighty monuments are top of your sightseeing list, this is the place. Marvel at Christian mosaics, castles left by the Crusaders and Roman amphitheatres on your way to the greatest of the country’s greatest of antiquities: the ancient city of Petra. Combine this with an excursion into the mystical Wadi Rum and rest and relaxation at a luxurious resort on the Red Sea and you’ve got a trip to satisfy your soul.

Exotic yet accessible, Thailand is the perfect gateway into Asia. Characterised by its generous cuisine, warm culture and golden beaches, it offers the quintessential tropical getaway. Thailand welcomes all the family, with miles of sands, walkable cities with their mix of old and new and the chance to meet elephants in its thriving jungles.

An intriguing blend of Malay, European, Indian and Chinese heritage gives Malaysia its character. Mix that with fabulous food, idyllic beaches, tropical rainforests and ultra-modern cities and you have a contender for an incredible holiday in the Far East. Kuala Lumpur’s draw is in its soaring skyscrapers and exciting nightlife, while the beaches and luxurious resorts of Langkawi and Penang beckon those looking for a more peaceful pace.

Spectacular Singapore offers exceptional dining, iconic architecture, world-class shopping and a medley of cultures in one compact experience. Explore beautiful botanic gardens, be dazzled on the Marina Bay waterfront, dine in Michelin starred restaurants, try out new fashions on Orchard Road and get lost in Chinatown, Kampong Glam or Little India. For family fun, head to the island of Sentosa for theme parks and pretty beaches. Singapore has it all.

A cluster of islands peppered with volcanoes and framed by sun-bleached sands, Indonesia is a hotbed of adventure. Choose from a menu of experiences - scooter through the jungle, sail around the islands on a cruise, trek through the monkey forest at Ubud, surf in the choppy waves at Seminyak. Simply looking to relax? Kick back on any of Bali’s palm-fringed beaches with a smoothie bowl in hand and watch the world go by.

Vietnam is utterly mesmerising. A land of breathtaking vistas, vibrant culture and unmatchable cuisine, you’ll discover unspoilt national parks and floating villages, sheltered tropical bays and stunning spas on a tour of the country. Head to the ancient cities of Hanoi and Hoi An for bustling markets, rooftop restaurants and luxury hotels. A majestic place to explore.

A beach lover’s dream. That’s the Philippines. Made up of 7000 islands fringed with white sand, there’s no end to hidden lagoons, watersports, captivating marine life and opulent beachfront resorts. Beyond the beaches, you’ll find emerald rice fields, smoking volcanoes and the vibrant capital Manila with markets, cathedrals from its Catholic heritage and gleaming shopping malls to fill your days.

The definition of jungle. There’s no greater place on earth to witness the rainforest in action, spotting an orangutan or pygmy elephant through the trees. With luxury resorts dotting its northern coast, delicious island cuisine and unspoilt beaches, a holiday in Borneo is pure adventure.

Love the Great Outdoors? Peru’s for you. Ascend from magical Cusco to Machu Picchu, one of the most captivating sights in the world. Journey over rolling sand dunes to jagged peaks, rafting, paragliding, biking or ziplining along the way. The food here’s an adventure too - with a magical mix of indigenous, African and Asian influences, it’s the true definition of fusion. Whatever you do in Peru, you’ll experience something extraordinary.

Costa Rica is a crowd pleaser. A trip to the “rich coast” can be anything you want it to be - from relaxing in bubbling hot springs and living the pura vida on a palm-fringed beach to zip wiring through a cloud forest or adventuring into the jungle. A pioneer of eco tourism, you can experience incredible wildlife here - sloths, macaws and turtles - without leaving a footprint behind. There just aren’t enough words to do a holiday in Costa Rica justice.

With its rhythmic cities and surreal biodiversity, its melting pot of cultures and welcoming warm sands, a holiday in Brazil offers the best of all worlds. The Amazon Rainforest is a must on any tour of the country, offering a once-in-a-life chance to spot unique wildlife from a luxury jungle lodge. Party people will adore soaking up the atmosphere of Carnaval in lively Rio de Janeiro, while those seeking beaches will be delighted by miles of golden sand. Vamos lá!

Mexico is a culture vulture’s dream. There’s so much more to this vivid country than just palm-fringed beaches and margaritas - though you’ll find those in abundance too. Be awe-inspired by Aztec and Mayan architecture or stroll through sun-dappled colonial towns left behind by the Spanish. Head to the Pacific coast for surfing and snorkelling or into the jungle of Chiapas. Bougie boutique hotels make for a zen escape at the end of each sun-drenched day.

Tango. Steak. Football. That’s just the start of what Argentina has to offer. This vast country spans frozen Patagonia, scorching plains and characterful cities. Don’t miss stylish Mendoza in the heart of wine country and the might of Iguazú Falls. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at fly fishing, absorb the icy formations of Perito Moreno Glacier and ride with gauchos across the grasslands for one almighty bucket list adventure.

Exhilarating trekking, golden temples, dizzying mountain ranges and the world’s friendliest people. That’s Nepal. Whether you go for the atmospheric squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, jungle adventures in the wild national parks or peace and serenity at lakeside Pokhara, this country in the clouds will simply take your breath away..

Everything about Uzbekistan is steeped in history - from the Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to the remote fortresses of Karakalpakstan. Add to that ecotourism in the Nuratau Mountains, colourful festivals and luxury train excursions, it’s an enchanting destination for travellers looking for somewhere truly off the beaten path.

With its astonishing ethnic diversity and immense natural beauty, Pakistan offers an eclectic experience that will linger long in your memory. Rub shoulders with royalty at Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and hike in the Fairy Meadows at Nanga Parbat, take a road trip along the Karakoram Highway and sail on the alpine lake of Saiful - among some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on earth.

Step back in time to the Persian Empire in captivating Iran. Whether you head for the bustling bazaars of Tehran, explore the marble ruins of Persepolis, wander exquisite gardens of Kashan or stand in awe at the turquoise minarets of Esfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Iran offers a spiritual journey like no other.

Sumptuous. Spiritual. Spectacular. There aren’t enough superlatives to do India justice. Whether you want to experience the buzz of Mumbai, the romance of the Taj Mahal, the exuberance of Gujarat's festivals, an adventurous Rajasthan safari, the peace of Kerala's backwaters, the spirituality of the Ganges or ultimate luxury in tropical Goa, a trip to India is one you’ll never forget.

A natural wonder, St Lucia offers a breathtaking backdrop to the most romantic of escapes. Waterfalls in the heart of the jungle, the forest carpeted Pitons and billowing sulphur springs are a draw all of their own. Delicious Creole cuisine, first-rate yacht excursions and opulent resorts are the cherry on top.

Barbados is the culinary capital of the Caribbean, serving up world-class dining in award-winning restaurants and street markets alike. Add to that a melting pot of cultures, breathtaking natural beauty, white-gold shores, must-see cricket and luxurious resorts, it’s the perfect escape for those seeking the finer side of life.

A distinctive character, colonial architecture and complex history make Cuba - the Caribbean’s largest island - entirely unique. Wander the streets of Havana, with its classic cars and candy coloured houses. Escape to the white sands of the coast. Stroll the fields of Valle de Vinales plantation sampling a Cuban coffee. If you want to experience a country trapped in a time warp, with a charm that will sweep you off your feet, there’s no better time than now.

An archipelago of tropical islands known as the capital of sailing, the Bahamas is truly a luxury destination. Discover pink-tinted beaches, endless sunshine and rum-drenched charm on its coral reef-fringed isles. After days spent on pristine golf courses, diving into the blue and swimming with stingrays, don’t miss an iconic fish fry with the locals. The definition of bliss.

Holidays in Antigua mean discovering glistening coves, exploring the vestiges of its historical past and marvelling at its picture-perfect pastel villages. It’s the perfect spot to rest and recharge too, with endless stretches of white sand to claim as your own for a week or two.

After a high-brow medley of winter sports, captivating cultures and capital-a Art? Canada is the destination for you. Experience a slice of Paris in Montréal, touch the wilderness with a stopover in Vancouver, mingle with the stars in Toronto. With a landscape this vast, the wildlife is sized to fit. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the chance to spot polar bears, whales and giant moose. There’s world-class skiing in Whistler, exhilarating surfing in Nova Scotia and, for a slower pace, swimming off the pink-tinged sands of Prince Edward Island. What will you choose to do?

The ultimate American experience can be anything you want it to be. Head to the big cities for bright lights. Think bold, brash Las Vegas, charming Charleston, jazzy New Orleans. If the road beckons, take the iconic trip down Route 66 for sun-blushed landscapes, towering peaks and rolling plains. Journey from the lush Pacific Northwest to sunny Florida and gobble up everything in between - from lip-smacking Texas BBQ to seafood off the dock in Maine. It’s your playground.

Extraordinary natural beauty awaits in the Seychelles - from its jungle interior to the coral reefs that dot its cyan-blue waters. Cruise between colonial Mahé and romantic La Digue, while away the day in a stunning spa or hike through nature reserves abundant with wildlife. Made for both relaxation and spectacular island-hopping, on a Seychelles holiday you can explore as much or as little as you like.

Heaven on earth. With its sparkling beaches, crystal clear waters and ultra luxurious resorts, you might just believe it about Mauritius. Head to the island for world-class cuisine, exciting diving, wildlife watching and boat trips to exquisite islets - the most romantic escape.

Sri Lanka is a sparkling jewel. A land of sights, sounds and a kaleidoscope of colour, you’ll discover Buddhist shrines and historic landmarks, palm-fringed coastline, train rides through tea country and the colonial Dutch Galle on a tour of the island. Head to Yala National Park for big game spotting - elephants wander the forests there and you may even see a leopard stalking through the jungle. Sri Lanka is a great destination for families, with plenty to do and a welcoming nature towards children. A breathtaking place to make memories.

Looking for a beach holiday? You won’t find finer than the Maldives. Home to powder-soft white sands, sapphire waters and some of the best diving in the world, it’s an obvious choice for ultimate seaside relaxation. Stay in some of the most exclusive hotels on earth for the height of luxury in paradise.

Lush and effortlessly cool, New Zealand is defined by its dramatic landscapes. Its forests, slopes and fjords are just waiting to be explored, by land, sky or water. Immerse yourself in Māori culture with a haka (war dance) or hangi (traditional feast), visit Queenstown for an adrenaline rush and stand at the top of the world at Tongariro Crossing. North or South Island - where will you go first?

In friendly Fiji, life moves at a slower pace. Its postcard-perfect beaches, fringed with palms, offer the perfect place to unwind. With over 300 islands dotted in the Pacific, you have your pick of secluded overwater bungalows and your very own stretch of turquoise lagoon. Blissful relaxation in a breathtaking setting.

Extraordinarily diverse and unexpectedly vibrant, Australia is a place for adventurous spirits, foodies and wildlife enthusiasts. This ancient land isn’t short on jaw-dropping spectacles, from the Indigenous spiritual site of Uluru and the natural majesty of the Great Barrier Reef to the glitzy Opera House in Sydney and exquisite resorts on Fraser Island. A once-in-a-lifetime destination.