Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius. With a population of around 170 000, the city is the largest on the island. It is also the economic center of the country. Port Louis feels like a mixture of different countries and continents - Africa, China, Europe, the Middle East and others. Its lively streets provide a good alternative to the other part of the island filled with peaceful resorts and private beaches. Be aware that once the commuters leave the city after dark, it dies out and practically nothing is open.

The town of Pointe des Galets is located on the west side of the island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean and is the commercial and industrial center of the island. It was created around the harbour in the 1980s. Le Port's straight avenues and modern architecture are more interesting from an urban point of view rather than a tourist one. The harbour is the third largest naval base belonging to France. The town's marina provides a great opportunity to explore the underwater world.

Nosy Be is an island about 10 km off the northwest coast of Madagascar. The island is the country's number one destination for beach lovers, divers, sailors and fishermen. Despite its popularity, Nosy Be remains pretty low-key and undeveloped. It is pricier than some of Madagascar's mainland resorts, however, the 'mora mora' (literally, slowly slowly) lifestyle is worth the extra dollars. Once you have explored the seascape, head for the stunning landscapes, vanilla plantations, lakes, waterfalls and dirt tracks.

Victoria is the capital of the Seychelles, the country's economic, political and commercial centre and home to one third of the total population. Despite all of the aforementioned, it is still one of the smallest capital cities in the world and has a strong provincial town feel. Just like other provincial towns, Victoria has its charm: the beautiful botanical gardens, the busy market, the colourful colonial buildings and the city's backdrop of hills make it well worth a visit.

La Digue is the smallest of the three main inhabited Seychelles islands, its population consists of only 2000 people. There is no airport and only a handful of vehicles but thanks to its modest size, you can easily cycle around the whole island - the journey from one settlement to another won't take you longer than 10 minutes. La Digue is laid back, full of beautiful beaches, green hills and bewitching bays - a real tropical paradise. Although, not totally undiscovered by tourists, there are still deserted bays and beaches to be enjoyed.

The capital of Oman, Muscat is located in the northeast of the country on the Gulf of Oman. Muscat has many beautiful beaches, parks, and a moat, which is located next to the Great Mosque of Sultan Quabus. For a better idea of the local culture and food, go and experience the bustle of the traditional oriental markets. Muscat is a very elegant and uniform city with most of the buildings reflecting tradition - that is a requirement even for the functional new buildings.

The emirate of Dubai is home to around 1.8 million inhabitants. The majority of the population lives in the city. Dubai is known for its modern and futuristic projects. From skyscrapers on manmade islands, to amusement parks, there is hardly anything that does not exist in this city. Dubai offers endless beautiful beaches, excellent water sports, desert safaris and an almost immeasurable range of shopping facilities.