Las Vegas is all about glamour for its own sake: over-the-top hustle and flash as means and end. Its crowds of people in polyester pantsuits, big hair and gold chains, staring at neon signs and spinning cherries like deer hypnotised by headlights.

Los Angeles is a micro universe. You can find everything from rags to riches, from Tinseltown to East LA. Head south to visit Orange County´s Huntington Beach for the ultimate experience in Surf City USA or head to the Californian Riviera city of Laguna Beach to check out the famous art scene.  LA is also home to a little thing called Hollywood. More remote wilderness style trips await in Colorado. The Rocky Mountains boast world class white-water rafting,scenic vistas, and old west charm.

Hong Kong has the big city specials like smog, odour, 14 million elbows and an insane love of clatter. But it's also efficient, hushed and peaceful: the transport network is excellent, the shopping centres are sublime, and the temples and quiet corners of parks are contemplative oases.