If you’re a golf fan, there’s no greater place to tee off than the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland, golf’s holiest venue. Writer Gary Mason got a chance to visit the hallowed ground earlier this year in a bucket list trip, which included a stay at Rusacks St. Andrews, a luxury hotel located alongside the 18th fairway. Writes Mason: “It felt a bit like being at Disneyland, where all these make-believe places had come to life. But then slowly the awe began to dissipate, replaced by a growing sense of trepidation. I was playing at the cradle of golf.” Read more.

And if you think you know all about blinged-out Dubai, my recent visit was an eye-opener. A 90-minute drive outside the city revealed a whole other side: a place of rugged mountains, kayaking, hiking and loads of outdoor adventures. Read more.

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