Where to next?

Temple gardens, geisha districts and the country's finest seasonal food.

Best time: Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov

Lake palaces, hilltop sunsets and heritage havelis at every turn.

Best time: Oct–Mar

Tiled hills, tram rides, seafood taverns and easy coastal day trips.

Best time: Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct

Base camp for waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs and northern lights.

Best time: Jun–Aug, Sep–Mar (auroras)

Rice terraces, surf beaches, temples and great value villas.

Best time: May–Sep

Table Mountain, penguin beaches and winelands within an hour's drive.

Best time: Nov–Mar

Lakeside adventure capital with alpine hikes and wineries.

Best time: Dec–Feb, Jun–Aug (ski)

World-class museums, markets and one of the best food scenes anywhere.

Best time: Mar–May, Oct–Nov

Desert safaris, souks and skyline dining with short-haul convenience.

Best time: Nov–Mar

Hawker food, gardens and theme parks — the easiest first trip abroad.

Best time: Feb–Apr

Ancient ruins, piazza life and neighbourhood trattorias.

Best time: Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct

High-altitude passes, monasteries and some of the best road trips on earth.

Best time: Jun–Sep