Bitesized guide: Great escapes

India

Delve into the past or laze around in the present; the choice is yours in Goa. There's a wealth of history in this former Portuguese colony plus an abundance of beaches for sun worshippers. Goa is also the land of mangos and mangroves, so those looking to tantalise their taste buds or get acquainted with the region's wildlife, such as flying foxes, will be spoilt for choice too. If you're in the mood for some people-watching or want to stock up on holiday souvenirs, Anjuna market provides the perfect opportunity to see local life at its bustling best. Just don't forget to haggle.

Egypt

There's far more to Egypt than the classic images of looming pyramids and sweeping deserts. With year-round sun and world-renowned scuba-diving, head to Hurghada on the Red Sea where you can take the plunge and explore ghostly wrecks and exotic marine life. Anyone wanting to delve into the blue without getting wet can jump aboard the Sinbad submarine, which takes passengers down to depths of up to 22m (72ft). If you can't resist the urge to experience some of Egypt's more infamous attractions, Luxor is only a day trip away.

Thailand

The coast of Thailand is hardly a well kept secret, but if you're looking to get to know it without the full moon parties or swathes of unwashed backpackers, then Hua Hin is the place to be. This family-friendly hotspot boasts calm waters and watersports to keep the children safe and entertained, while the short road journey from Bangkok will keep tantrums to a minimum. As the sun goes down, watch the tantalising array of lobsters, crabs and oysters brought ashore from Hua Hin's fishing pier, then sample them in one of the many excellent local restaurants.

Morocco

Morocco has a timeless quality that few other destinations can match. A heady combination of cultures and religions, with one foot in the past and another in the future, Marrakesh is guaranteed to stimulate all the senses. By day, explore the city's famous souks and by night, head to Jemaa el Fna square where storytellers, snakecharmers and performers offer entertainment unique to Morocco. When you tire of the crowds, Essaouira, once the hang out of hippies and rock stars, is a popular coastal alternative.

Vietnam

Beach huts and long sandy beaches are the order of the day in Vietnam. Anyone who has time to explore the coast may be lucky enough to find one all to themselves: but those on a tight schedule should head to the white sandy expanse of China Beach, near to historic Danang. The nearby Marble Mountains contain a wealth of caves and tunnels to explore as well as a series of Buddhist sanctuaries scattered amongst the hills. So when you've finished resting your head, there's no better place to stretch the legs and broaden the mind.