Xi’an, located in central China’s Shaanxi Province, served as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and was the capital of 13 imperial dynasties. Its long history is most famously represented by the Terracotta Army, an underground army of life-sized warriors discovered in 1974. Each figure has distinct facial features, hairstyles, and armor, designed to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
Malta is a Mediterranean gem known for its warm climate, stunning coastline and vibrant culture. Whether wandering through its historic cities, relaxing by the sea, or discovering its unique traditions, visitors will find endless reasons to explore this island nation.
Socotra rises from the Arabian Sea like a world apart, its landscapes shaped over millennia. The Dragon’s Blood Trees, with their umbrella-shaped crowns and deep red sap, stand among the most iconic sights here. In places like Dixam Plateau and Homhil Forest, these trees gather in sparse formations, creating scenes that feel both ancient and alien. The resin remains valued for traditional dyes and remedies.
Manaus, capital of Brazil’s Amazonas state, is a city that rises unexpectedly from the rainforest. Once the center of the global rubber boom in the late 1800s, Manaus still holds onto that legacy with surprising elegance. The Teatro Amazonas, an opulent opera house imported piece by piece from Europe, sits at the heart of the city, its pink façade and domed roof tiled in the colors of the Brazilian flag. Today, it hosts concerts, festivals, and curious visitors eager to step back in time.
Seven miles outside of historic Athens, the Greek coastal city of Piraeus lies upon the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea and is the largest passenger port in Europe, servicing nearly 20 million passengers per year.
Elegant playground of the rich and famous, Gstaad also features the most glamorous snowfields in all of Europe. Mostly between Christmas and New Year, you will find international celebrities, aristocracy, movie stars and famous heads-of-state wherever you turn. Saanenland is a true paradise for fans of all kinds of winter sports.
Skiing starts here long before the other resorts get going, with ideal conditions on the nearby Diablerets glacier which offers year round skiing. By Christmas there is powder snow right down to the valley. With 250 kms of marked ski pistes for skiers of all standards, cross-country ski tracks and the excellent Swiss ski schools; 69 mountain railways and ski lifts, Gstaad is an ideal venue for all lovers of winter sun, sport and superb scenery.
But Gstaad is not just a winter resort; as each season unfolds, the lush mountains are a sporting paradise all year round. Gstaad in summer offers the fascination of unspoilt mountain scenery, the special atmosphere of the original, cosy chalet village and an attractive programme of events and activities.
Guests can sense the sincerity of Saanen hospitality regardless of whether they are in a palatial five-star hotel or a simple village restaurant. All the features of summer sport are in abundance - hiking, climbing, swimming, tennis, fishing or golfing at the beautiful alpine golf course at Saanenmöser. Gstaad also has lots to offer culturally.
World renowned soloists and chamber music ensembles rendezvous every year at the Yehudi Menuhin Festival. The Alpengala presents major symphonic works, operas and ballet.