Often overlooked by natives for nearby Viña del Mar, Valpo (as goes its local nickname) is more than just gorgeous seaside views, colourful houses and easy-going lifestyle. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, its popularity has grown in the past few years and travellers far and wide have been known to set up camp for months on end here. It might have something to do with the beckoning coastline, but there must be something in the water here: it won't be the countless museums holding you back (there's only a small handful), but rather the enticing atmosphere.

Puebla, Mexico - conquistadores, unexpected, charming, friendly, social

I loved Puebla from the moment I arrived, it was full of really friendly people, with a really good vibe to it. As the city's got about 4 different unis, it's full of students, and even though I was working as a language assistant, I felt it was really easy to make friends. I didn't work that many hours when I was there, so I got the chance to travel across the South and in the Central regions of Mexico - it was a really incredible experience, I met some amazing people and I really enjoyed what I was doing (even though I don't really want to go into teaching). The people are really friendly and a lot of opportunities arise from knowing the right people - I got my flat because I had a friend of a friend, and most of my mates were made through contacts and saying yes to things. A word of warning: Mexicans are real party animals, so don't expect to get away from the aptly named 'cruda' that easily!