Arabian Nights & Egyptian Shores

Mumbai, with its natural deep harbour on India's west coast, is its most populous city as well as the richest. Comprising seven islands that once were home to communities of fishing colonies, over time, joined to form the city earlier known as Bombay. It is now the commercial and entertainment capital of India. Read more about Mumbai, India

Mahe is the largest and most important island of the Seychelles archipelago. While this spectacular island is only 27 km long it is dominated by a mountain range with its tallest peak Morne Seychellois, at 930 m in height, being central to a wonderful national park. There are also some delightful marine national parks off the island. Read more about Mahe Island, Seychelles

The capital of Zanzibar (which can refer to the island Unguja, as well as the whole Archipelago) is Zanzibar City. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of the United Republic of Tanzania. Zanzibar Archipelago is on the Swahili Coast of the Indian Ocean. Read more about Zanzibar, Tanzania, United Republic of

Located in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique, Mayotte (French Comoros) primarily consists of two islands, Grande Terre - on which Mamoudzou the capital of Mayotte is situated - and Petite Terre, as well as many other uninhabited islands. These islands are of volcanic origin as evidenced by the ancient volcanic peaks and ravines, and are endowed with breath-taking natural splendour including endemic flora and fauna. The islet of Pamandzi has a volcanic crater filled with emerald green waters known as the ‘Lake of the volcano’, while another beautiful site is in Sulu, where a waterfall falls directly into the sea. Read more about Mamoudzou, Comoros

Nosy Be (‘Big Island’: Malagasy), an island off the NW coast of Madagascar, is its largest port and Madagascar’s most popular beach-resort. Though Nosy Be’s inclination is towards mass tourism, it is still a largely peaceful place with sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries, ylang ylang bushes, and lounging lemurs. This still beautiful island offers some amazing snorkelling and diving opportunities as well as primary forests with great wildlife. Read more about Nosy Be, Madagascar

Durban is the third largest city in South Africa and is its busiest port. Its subtropical climate and extensive beaches provide excellent opportunities for sun-worshippers, surfers and swimmers. The Golden Mile, a wide stretch of golden sands, is artificially separated by various piers. Read more about Durban, South Africa

Port Elizabeth - or PE as it is fondly known - is South Africa's fifth largest city and is located on the Indian Ocean coast half-way between Cape Town and Durban. Also known as the Friendly City and the Windy City, it tends to live up to both names. The long stretches of white beach and its historical significance make PE a vibrant city, with shopping, flea markets, great restaurants and other entertainment on offer. Read more about Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Port Elizabeth - or PE as it is fondly known - is South Africa's fifth largest city and is located on the Indian Ocean coast half-way between Cape Town and Durban. Also known as the Friendly City and the Windy City, it tends to live up to both names. The long stretches of white beach and its historical significance make PE a vibrant city, with shopping, flea markets, great restaurants and other entertainment on offer. Read more about Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Located on the shore of Table Bay, Cape Town was the first European settlement in South Africa, and today is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Pristine beaches, sheltered bays and secluded coves encircle the majestic might of Table Mountain, a World Heritage Site and home to some 8,500 species of flowers. Be sure to get to the top of the mountain by taking the Table Mountain Cableway and absorb the fascinating views. Read more about Cape Town, South Africa