Best for: A desert adventure

An obvious choice for year-round sunshine, Dubai has plenty to offer beyond sandy beaches with the backdrop of Burj Al Arab. The Gold Souk in Deira is a great alternative to the mega malls in Dubai for souvenir shopping, while a day tour in the desert offers adventurous activities from dune bashing to sandboarding and camel rides.

Of course, camels are not the only animal you'll find in the desert city—a wildlife safari in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers a rare opportunity to spot fascinating flora and fauna of the Arabian Desert including the Arabian gum tree, oryx, gazelles and falcons. 

Where to stay: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai

Tatler tip: For the best shopping experience, don't miss out on the Dubai Shopping Festival, a one-month celebration starting from December 26, with an exciting lineup of entertainment across the city.

See also: 5 Incredible Trip Ideas For Adventure Seekers

Best for: Diving 

The Jordanian coastal city of Aqaba is home to vibrant coral reefs that are visible up to 40 metres and warm water temperature that's perfect for swimming and diving. 

With over 20 dive sites to choose from, Aqaba is best known for wreck diving—the most famous site being the Cedar Pride, which is easily accessible from the shore and home to colourful fish, sea turtles and dolphins.

Where to stay:  Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea

Tatler tip: Get a taste of life in Aqaba at the weekly street market ‘Souk By The Sea’ held every Friday evening, where you can shop handicrafts made by Jordanian artisans, try local delicacies and dance to live music. 

Best for: A bit of everything

Dubbed ‘the pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Sri Lanka is one of those rare destinations that truly has it all—a tropical paradise of lush tea plantations, rare wildlife, UNESCO heritage sites and golden beaches. The coastal city of Galle is best for soaking up plenty of sun on the sands, while Weligama and Unawatuna are go-to spots for beginner surfers all year round.

Where to stay:  Cape Weligama

Tatler tip: Hop on the train that travels from the cultural hub of Kandy to the hilly town of Ella through tea estates, waterfalls and rice terraces and watch the scenery change by the minute. 

See also: Experience The Magic Of The Eastern & Oriental Express

Best for: Culture in the caribbean 

The Caribbean’s biggest island is easily one of the most culturally vibrant places in the world. Immerse yourself in the colour-drenched streets of Havana, where the art scene is on the rise and Cuban music is everywhere—add in rum, cigars and salsa and you’re in for a treat.

Oh, and you’re not far from the beach, either. The resort town of Varadero is just a two-hour drive away, with 20km of golden sands, turquoise waters and five-star all-inclusive hotels to choose from—the perfect beach holiday.

Where to stay: Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski

Tatler tip: Head to Jardines del 1830 on Sunday evenings, where you can watch (or join in) live salsa taking place in the gardens of a colonial building next to the sea.

See also: 10 Of The Most Luxurious Villas You Can Rent In Southeast Asia