Fun in Bangkok, Thailand
One Night in Bangkok was a hit years ago that was played around the world. The night life in Thailand's capital, with its population of more than nine million, still caters for every taste. Although by law bars have to close no later than 9 p.m., in many places they keep going to the wee hours of the morning.
Slam – Dunk New York, USA
New York is a legendary hive of activity – so it is impossible to be aware of everything worth seeing. Even one of the world's most famous sports arenas can easily go unnoticed, though you might be right next to it.
Madison Square Garden, on 7th Avenue, hosts more than 300 events a year. Entertainment and arts events aside, you can watch the best basketball and ice-hockey in the world there. In the heart of the city, Madison Square Garden is the home of the New York Knicks (basketball) and New York Rangers (ice hockey). And there's room for almost 20,000 spectators.
Captivating Tower, Lisbon, Portugal
Just a few kilometres from the centre of Lisbon is Belém Tower (Torre de Belém). It is probably one of the world's most beautiful buildings to have served as a prison. Built in the 16th century as a fortress, it was not originally intended as a prison, and it now commemorates Vasco da Gama's quest from Lisbon in 1497 to find a sea route to India. He found one and his journey to India and back to Portugal took two years. Belém Tower is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
At Home Shopping – Stockholm, Sweden
It is easy to feel at home in Stockholm, if only because the Swedes have developed so many shopping concepts that have become successful around the world, such as H&M, Gina Tricot, Stadium, Clas Ohlson, and IKEA. The large department stores in the centre of town are great places to shop. If you are looking for designer clothes, make for the boutiques on Drottninggatan.
For Foodies: Osaka, Japan
Sushi has conquered the hearts of gourmets around the world. But the sushi bars that have sprung up across the world only hint at the delights that a true artist can devise. Osaka, on Japan's main island, is a city for lovers of food. Locals and strangers alike head for the Dotonbori district. There's plenty to choose from, but would you dare try the poisonous globefish, a real display of culinary skill?
In all its glory: Finnish Lapland
Lapland has had to adapt to extreme conditions. In summer, the sun shines for 24 hours and the vegetation absorbs the sun's energy during its short and intense growing season. In autumn, the evenings are dark but the forests are aglow with red and orange tints an incredible sight.
Text: Sami Laakso
Photos: Wikimedia