How to soak up Charleston’s past? On a trolley ride around the Tea Plantation, or on a horse-drawn carriage through the streets? Or walk the decks of the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier at Patriot’s Point, you’ll see fighter jets and more.

Vast desert sand dunes, man-made islands, lavish beach resorts, even an indoor ski slope. Visit the bustling gold souk, where you’ll need to haggle for a bargain. See the city from the top of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Step aboard a traditional Chinese cruiser and weave your way through Victoria Harbour. Survey the city’s bright skyline, which you can enjoy from the lively Tsim Sha Tsui promenade or the more peaceful Victoria Peak after a steep tram ride.

The French Quarter is the heartbeat of New Orleans. Its graceful 18th century architecture is actually more Spanish than French. Hop aboard a historic red streetcar to take in the sights.

Christ the Redeemer is only the tip of Rio’s wonderful iceberg. See the towering modern Cathedral downtown, then take the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Stroll the Copacabana but sunbathe at Ipanema beach, caipirinha in hand.

There are so many ways to see San Francisco. Will you cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge or stroll around Fisherman’s Wharf? Ride a cable car up the steep streets of Little Italy or peer out from behind the cell bars at Alcatraz?

Sailing into Sydney and first glimpsing the Opera House will take your breath away. The views get even better if you climb the Harbour Bridge. Take a ferry to Manly and enjoy a coastal walk. Head to Surry Hills for trendy bars and cafés.