Europe has so much to offer. And while each country is great to visit throughout the year, most regions and countries are more popular during particular times of the year.

Summer and autumn are great for Mediterranean Europe, from the quaint Italian seaside villages, the glamourous French Rivera, or the pine-tree-rich Spanish islands. In contrast, the Alps and Scandinavia offer a spectacular backdrop for the Winter season. Nothing beats Spring in central Europe, with the blossoming tulips in the Netherlands and the crystal clear lakes in Germany and Switzerland.

Best for: Couples, families, and small groups

Best time: Each area has a recommended season

With 1,200 private islands, this remote archipelago in the Indian Ocean is known for the world's most pristine beaches, scenic dive spots, and colourful underwater world.

The Maldives is the ultimate luxury escape, home to the most renowned hotel brands in the world and the ideal destination for special celebrations. Throughout the year, it offers plenty of sunshine and consistent temperatures around 30°C/86°F.

Best for: Couples and families

Best time: October to April

The Middle East has so much diversity and it is a part of the world where the past is always present.

While countries like Jordan, Israel and Egypt offer a rich history, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia thrive on newness. They are known for extravagance, endless deserts, state-of-the-art skyscrapers, beaches and shopping.

The Middle East has guaranteed sunshine throughout the year, with more comfortable temperatures from October through April.

Best for: Couples, families and small groups

Best time: October to April

Africa is a magical continent and offers a wealth of diversity. Southern Africa specifically is the perfect destination for outdoor experiences as it provides excellent safari adventures and is the ideal place for golfers, surfers, sunseekers and hikers. Southern Africa has everything from cosmopolitan Cape Town to the Namib desert over to the magnificent Victoria Falls and up Mozambique’s coast.

While safari tours are best planned from June to October, summer sets in from November to March.

Best for: Couples, families and smaller groups

Best time: June to October (for safaris) and November to March (for summer)

Southeast Asia is a melting pot of different religions, traditions and cultures and is home to some of the planet’s most incredible temples, palaces and natural sights.

From Angkor Wat to Ha Long Bay, the southeast has some of the most famous attractions on the continent to add to sprawling cities, a section of the Himalayas, hundreds of beaches and pleasant tropical climates.

Best for: Couples, families and small groups

Best time: Each area has a recommended season