We only get one life so we owe it to ourselves to see as much of this beautiful world as possible. As we work longer hours our leisure time becomes more and more valuable and increasingly it's how we spend it that gives meaning and value to our lives. That's not to say that we are unhappy with our lot but, in the absence of religion, personal fulfilment is the new god and for growing numbers of people this comes from new experiences and sights. Holidays are what we live for - whether it's to see endangered wildlife, ancient monuments, modern architecture, art, foreign cultures, extraordinary scenery or whatever, holidays offer us the chance to grow and expand our horizons. For many of us today lying on a beach for two weeks is just not enough any more.

Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die is the first in a new series of books that will help you search out some of these essential places and experiences. These books are not travel guides and they're certainly not definitive, but they will introduce you to a host of spectacular places that can all be visited in a regular two-week holiday or less.

Compiled by the people who really know, each book will be written by an expert writer and photographer who will visit each location in person. In the first title, international travel writer and photographer, Steve Davey, draws on his years of experience and selects 40 of his personal favourite destinations that will inspire you to think beyond your office walls. (...)