Dubai, Sri Lanka, Maldives: City sights and island vibes

Huge skyscrapers, sparkling sea and the famous Palm Islands await. It's unbelievable that you've flown to a completely different world in such a short time! Your driver is already waiting to take you to your hotel, and once you arrive and unpack your bags, there's only one question left: venture into the city of modern architecture and luxury and plunge into its vibrant nightlife or check out the breathtaking hotel pool first?

A stroll through Miracle Garden, where sculptures of all shapes and sizes come alive amidst over 70,000 square metres of colourful flowers, makes the perfect way to start the day. Continue on to the Burj al Arab, one of the tallest luxury hotels in the world, then pop over to a place that's no less spectacular: the world's largest shopping mall! In addition to around 1,200 shops, there are tons of other highlights to discover, such as huge aquariums with glass tunnels, a chamber of horrors, an ice-skating rink and a dinosaur skeleton! Just around the corner, you'll find the city's landmark, Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on Earth, where viewing platforms with spectacular views await you on floors 124, 125 and 148 (optional, bookable online). And in the evening, there's one thing you of course cannot miss: the famous Dubai Fountain water show. To get the best view of it, head to the terrace of the Apple Store on the first floor of the Dubai Mall.

Good morning, Dubai! Today, you're waking up in the metropolis of millions one last time. If you've got anything left on your Dubai bucket list, now's your final chance to tick that box. Still haven't taken a selfie in front of the Burj Khalifa yet? Then go for it! It's a pic you'll definitely want in your collection. Stomach growling? How about a delicious lunch in one of the many restaurants (optional, payable on site)? Sit back and enjoy the beautiful, almost royal view of the city skyline.
Having enjoyed the day to the full, it's time to leave Dubai behind and head for the airport. And where are you staying tonight? Above the clouds! As Dubai's sea of lights diminishes below you, you close your eyes and drift into slumberland.

Wakey, wakey and welcome to Sri Lanka! You're greeted by the country's bright green landscape, and after landing, you head straight to your accommodation in Kandy. The last of Sri Lanka's royal cities casts its shadow before you, and you can hardly wait to find out more about its legends and traditions. But more on that tomorrow. For now, explore the streets of Kandy on your own as you stroll past the charming colonial buildings. And if you're up for a bit of time travel, at the Queen's Pub Royal, you'll feel like you've travelled 200 years into the past. What more exciting way to enjoy a drink than that?!