From the ancient Neolithic temples of Mnajdra and Hypogeum to the baroque magnificence of local palazzos, Malta is undoubtedly a world-class destination to live, work and relax.

Serving as the gateway between North Africa and Europe, the islands have a long and proud history of conquerors, and various civilizations have since their distinctive marks on the country.

Antigua and Barbuda’s gently sloping coastline and graceful harbours have long lured travellers to Antiguan waters. Landmarks such as Nelson’s Dockyard on English Harbour stand testament to bygone British maritime power in the region.

Today, the islands enjoy a rich culture, abundant wildlife and is renowned for hosting some of the world’s most spectacular sailing regattas. The tropical island boasts over 365 soft, white sand beaches – one, it is said, for every day of the year.

Blessed with a beautiful landscape and lush vegetation and lapped by azure ocean, St Lucia has geographical and cultural capability enough to exceed far larger nations. Despite such wonders, it remains pleasantly down-to-earth and displays its beauty to enthralled travellers with nonchalance.

Despite its name, St Lucia is really two islands in one. In the north of the island, Rodney Bay offers visitors lazy days in the sun along with all of the comforts a modern traveller can wish for amid a gorgeous bay. The crystal-clear water and soft blonde sand stretch out to embrace the horizon, beckoning beachgoers to soak in St Lucia’s warm sun-soaked waves.

Though it is the smallest nation in the Caribbean, St Kitts & Nevis leaves a big impression on all who travel here. Boasting warm climates year-round, world-class golf courses, ivory sand beaches and stunning tropical rainforests, there’s a lot more to these sister islands than meets the eye.

The smaller of the two islands, Nevis, is home to monkeys, originally from Africa and left here by French colonists. A thriving eco-tourism industry attracts visitors from all over the world.

Turkey’s warm, sunny climes ensure that it remains a popular tourist hotspot, but it is so much more than just a resort destination. From ancient Ephesus (Efes) to the magnificent curve of Aya Sofya’s Byzantine dome, Turkey is home to many world-famous cultural and historic monuments. Influenced by an impressive list of historical figures and civilisations – the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans – have all left their distinctive marks on this important stop along the Silk Road. Experiencing this mighty legacy for yourself from İstanbul’s sprawling Topkapı Palace to the mysterious Lycian ruins is just one of the many benefits of obtaining Turkish citizenship by investment.

Following the division of the Roman Empire some 1600 years ago, Montenegro has been a cultural and geographical gateway between East and West. Long considered the pearl of the Balkans, Montenegro’s coastline crams in some of Europe’s most spectacular seaside scenery. Mountains rise into the azure sky from clear waters that sparkle like diamonds in the dazzling sunlight. Ancient stone-wrought towns dot the mountainous landscape slope down, dipping gently into the water. In the summer, the air is suffused with the scent of fragrant herbs, conifers and flowers.

In the South Pacific Ocean lies one of the happiest nations in the world – Vanuatu. Surrounded by a pristine ocean waters and located only a short flight away from Australia and New Zealand, this tropical archipelago easily matches most peoples’ image of a paradise on Earth.

Vanuatu’s exotic landscapes are home to majestic volcanoes, virgin rainforests, a variety of beaches for all tastes and rich underwater life. The country offers a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure yet remains relatively untouched by waves of international tourism.