In the summer months, visitors arrive in droves to discover Manavgat's river and waterfall, as well as the nearby ancient Greco-Roman ruins. But the city itself—and the locals who frequent its sprawling street bazaars and eateries—remain unphased by the influx, with life continuing as it has for centuries.

On the Turkish Riviera, traditional fishing villages such as †agiz nestle alongside the modern resort destinations of Marmaris and Antalya. Unspoiled yellow sandy beaches and pine forests line this history-rich coast whose illustrious former residents include St Paul. Buses make easy connections between the coves, castles and cities beside the turquoise waters of what the Turks call the "White Sea". Don't miss the awe-inspiring eternal fires of Chimaera at Olympos - most impressive at night.

Belek, a resort town on the Turkish Riviera, is known for very clean, white-sand beaches surrounded by pine forests. History buffs should plan day trips to the Roman ruins at Perge and the Aspendos amphitheater. Or if you’d prefer a round of golf, bring your clubs—there are excellent courses in the area.

Konakli is an attractive alternative to nearby Alanya, with miles of golden beaches, seafront villas, and palm-fringed promenades. Framed by the distant peaks of the Taurus Mountains, the beach town is a firm favourite among both locals and expats.

Approximately 40 miles southeast of Antalya, you will find the beautiful coastal resort of Kemer at the foot of the majestic Taurus Mountain. Enjoy a walk along the promenade and a visit a reconstructed tent city that reflects the life of the Turkish nomads. You can watch carpet weavers at work and sample Turkish specialties such as ayran (yogurt drink) and gözleme (pancakes). Close by is a cable car that lifts you right to the top of Tahtali Mountain (2,365 metres).

Palaces and parkland abound in the Polish capital. Public transport - buses, metro, trams and trolley buses - make it accessible. See the city spread before you from the monumental Palace of Culture and Science. Visit the Royal Castle and the Gothic, cobbled alleys and baroque palaces of the Old Town - destroyed by German troops but now masterfully reconstructed. The Old Town sights include the moving Uprising Monument and lovely Krasinski gardens. Walk the Royal Way to see the best of Warsaw.

Olbia (Greek for “happiness”) is a popular jumping-off point for those visiting the white-sand beaches of the Costa Smeralda, but those who linger in the coastal city uncover a historic centre filled with archaeological landmarks, piazzas ringed by wine bars, and authentic eateries.

Strung below craggy mountains, the Omani capital of Muscat is one of the Middle East’s oldest and most picturesque cities. Between its corniches and modern quarter are Portuguese-built forts, blue-domed mosques, royal palaces, and souks, all heavy with the sense of a lost Arabia.

Anjuna is among the most famous beaches in India. Popularly known for its Hippie culture, most people's reasons for coming to Anjuna are the same as they were in the 1970s. On Wednesdays, the famous flea market of Anjuna, a major shopping hangout beside the beach, opens for business. Bathing is generally safer at Anjuna than at most of the other beaches. Taking long walks and watching sunsets are among the favorite pastimes of visitors at Anjuna. Anjuna has emerged as a destination for rave parties and that take place over here from time to time, especially around the Christmas-New Year full moon period.

Leopards, white tigers, and spotted deer—oh my! These are just a few of the 22-plus species of mammals found at Bandhavgarh National Park. Added to that potential line-up are 250 different types of birds. Guests can cruise the park via jeep or elephant, with the latter specially trained to find tigers in the wild. For those who aren’t interested in going on safari, the Umaria district’s rich foliage, high grasslands, and bamboo forests are hailed as some of the most captivating in the country.

Want to make your co-workers insanely jealous? Just casually drop "I’m holiday making in the Maldives this year" into conversation, preferably in the dead of winter. Or better yet, go there without mentioning it to anyone—then send them a "Wish you were here!" postcard.