The city of Makati is the financial centre of the Philippines and one of the major financial, commercial and economic hubs in Asia. It is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world, and provides an eclectic mix of holiday rentals - from luxurious homes to small holiday villas and rental condos on the outskirts of the city. Makati is well known for its highly cosmopolitan culture, and many expatriates live and work in the city. It is also a major cultural and entertainment hub in Metro Manila.

Yangshuo offers breathtakingly beautiful scenery, particularly along the hill-lined Li River, which you can tour by cruise boat or, if you’re feeling primitive, by bamboo raft. Streets in Yangshuo are kept in their original style, preserving the layout of the ancient city. savoury local specialties like beer fish and shatian shaddocks are served on West Street, one of the town's liveliest thoroughfares. Kids will adore the local butterfly cave.

This charming city is a UNESCO world heritage site, with a rich trading history and multicultural heritage. Melaka is a rewarding town to explore and is about two hours from Kuala Lumpur.

Busan is Korea's second largest city.  Tourists often come to this region to hike and to visit the Buddhist Temples located deep within the region's mountains. The Beomeosa Temple, founded in 678 AD, is perhaps one of the most frequented temples in the area and is always packed with worshipers and tourists. For art buffs, Busan offers several museums and historical buildings. If scenery is your thing, try visiting the Dongbaek Island, or bird watch at the Nakdong river estuary.   

With a wide sandy beach, big hotels, and handy proximity to Colombo, Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular resorts. Beyond its sands lies an interesting mix: a colonial-built canal and crumbled fort; a lively fish market, traditional fishing communities, and a wildlife-rich lagoon.

Perched on the banks of the wide Swan River, Perth is one of the world's most isolated cities. Western Australia's capital sits between the Indian Ocean and the sands of the Nullarbor Desert. Perth's Sunset Coast is perfect for swimming. Fremantle's cafés and al-fresco eateries suit laid-back urbanites. Free CAT buses service tourist locations in Central Perth and Fremantle. Don't miss the ferry to Rottnest Island, home to charming marsupials called quokkas, or the views from King's Park and the Botanic Gardens.

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.