Granada, a city in Spain, is renowned for its rich Moorish heritage and stunning landscapes, including the Alhambra, Albaicín, and Sacromonte hills. The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit, showcasing Moorish architecture and design. The city's historic core blends Moorish Islamic and Spanish Christian sensibilities, with notable sites like the Catedral de Granada and the Church of San Gil y Santa Ana. The Sacromonte area is famous for its flamenco performances in cave homes. Federico García Lorca, Spain’s greatest poet, has significant ties to the city. Granada offers a variety of accommodations, from state-run paradores to charming hotels, and a vibrant culinary scene with free tapas. The city also boasts unique shopping experiences, including the Alcaicería bazaar and taracea artisans. Despite its hilly terrain, most attractions are accessible on foot.

Petra, a historic city in southern Jordan, is renowned for its ancient Nabataean architecture carved into sandstone cliffs. The city, largely hidden within gorges and canyons, offers dramatic entrances and significant landmarks like The Treasury and The Monastery. Visitors can explore Petra through various routes, including the main entrance via the Siq and an alternative path from Little Petra. Accommodations range from luxury resorts like Mövenpick Resort Petra to authentic experiences at Ammarin Bedouin Camp. Dining options in Wadi Musa include My Mom’s Recipe and Zawaya, while The Cave Bar offers a unique drinking spot. Shopping highlights include The Nabataean Ladies Cooperative and The Sand Castle. Practical tips for travelers include using Jordanian dinars, understanding local customs, and considering the Jordan Pass for entry and visa benefits.

Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a neighborhood that has evolved from a hipster haven to a more mature community while retaining its creative charm. It offers a variety of experiences from strolling along the East River at Domino Park to enjoying the culinary diversity. The area is well-connected by public transport, including the J, M, and L trains. Visitors can enjoy the local art scene, indulge in diverse food options, experience unique coffee shops, and shop at places like Brooklyn Flea. Accommodation options like The Hoxton and Moxy Brooklyn Williamsburg provide views of the Manhattan skyline. The NYC Ferry offers an affordable way to explore the riverfront, and cultural institutions like the Williamsburg Art & Historical Center and City Reliquary connect visitors to the local community.

San Sebastián, a city with a rich history and a reputation for high culinary standards, offers a variety of experiences for travelers. From its Belle Epoque architecture, such as the Hotel Maria Cristina, to the surf-friendly Zurriola Beach, the city caters to diverse interests. The Old Town is a hub for cultural exploration with museums like San Telmo and Euskal Itsas Museoa. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the Bay of Biscay or hike the Camino de Santiago. The city's food scene is renowned, with pintxos bars and Michelin-starred restaurants. Local drinks include Basque cider and txakoli wine. Shopping for gourmet Basque food and visiting markets like Mercado de la Bretxa are popular activities. Architectural highlights include the Kursaal, and the best views are from Monte Igueldo. Tips for travel include a 10% tip for service, using bus 16 for local transit, and swimming to Isla de Santa Clara. Flight-free travel is possible via Eurostar and TGV, while air travel options include British Airways and easyJet.

The French Quarter, embodying the soul of New Orleans, offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from jazz music at Preservation Hall to Creole cuisine at Mr. B’s Bistro. The area's history is preserved in the architecture and museums like the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Visitors can enjoy the Mississippi River through strolls or steamboat cruises, and indulge in the local culinary and musical heritage. Antiques and artwork can be found on Royal Street, while various hotels provide historic charm. Travel to New Orleans is accessible via direct flights from London Heathrow or indirect routes from other UK airports.

Belgrade offers a variety of neighborhoods catering to different travel preferences, from the historic and cultural Stari Grad to the modern and lively New Belgrade. Stari Grad is ideal for those interested in history and culture, featuring landmarks like the Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park. Vračar offers a more upscale experience with attractions like the Sveti Sava Church and the Nikola Tesla Museum. Savski Venac is known for its green spaces and museums, while Zemun provides a laid-back atmosphere with Austro-Hungarian architecture. New Belgrade is characterized by its modern architecture and vibrant nightlife along the riverbanks. The article highlights the best accommodations in each neighborhood, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Santander, a city in Spain's Cantabria region, offers a rich blend of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences. Known for its beautiful beaches like El Sardinero and Playa de los Peligros, the city also boasts significant landmarks such as the Palacio de la Magdalena and the Catedral de Santander. The local cuisine is diverse, featuring ingredients from both land and sea, with several Michelin-starred restaurants. Key attractions include the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, Centro Botín, and Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. Accommodation options range from luxurious hotels like Eurostars Hotel Real to budget-friendly choices like Alda Don Carlos.

The author recounts the stress of driving to visit family members across the UK during Christmas, which led to exhaustion and tension. After a particularly stressful holiday, the author and their partner Helena decided to travel to California and Mexico for Christmas 2019, which proved to be a delightful experience. The COVID-19 pandemic reminded them of the importance of family, leading to a new approach: spreading family visits throughout November and December and traveling somewhere new by Christmas, resulting in a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday season.

The author recounts the stress of driving to visit family members across the UK during Christmas, which led to exhaustion and tension. After a particularly challenging holiday, the author and their partner Helena decided to travel to California and Mexico for Christmas 2019, which proved to be a delightful experience. The COVID-19 pandemic reminded them of the importance of family, leading them to scatter family gatherings throughout November and December to reduce stress. This new approach to the holiday season allowed for more relaxed and enjoyable family interactions.

Berat, known as the White City and the Town of a Thousand Windows, is a historic and picturesque town in central Albania. The old town, with its unique architecture and well-preserved buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key attractions include the Mangalem Quarter, Berat Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and various historic mosques and churches. Visitors can stay in traditional accommodations and enjoy local cuisine at several notable restaurants. The town offers a blend of Islamic and Christian heritage, with significant Byzantine and Ottoman influences.