This cultural centre, named after one of the country's best and most beloved authors, Jorge Luis Borges, hosts an astonishing variety of performances and exhibitions. From ballet and tango to experimental theatre and orchestras, indie films, photography and art expos, you are sure to find something interesting during your visit.

What appears as a satellite dish or a radio telescope at first sight is actually a sculpture resembling a gigantic flower. Floralis Genérica has become a landmark in Buenos Aires' Plaza de las Naciones Unidas and was created and donated by Eduardo Catalano in 2002. Every morning, the 23 meters high petals open - moved by an electrical system. Supposedly, Floralis Genérica was the world's first mobile sculpture controlled by such a system. At sunset, the petals then close again, emitting a red glow from inside.

Al-Shafi'i Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Jeddah, with foundations dating to the earliest centuries of Islam. While much of the current structure reflects 16th-century Ottoman style, its historic mihrab (prayer niche) is believed to be nearly 1,400 years old. The mosque is named after Imam Al-Shafi'i, a foundational scholar of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence. The building has been carefully restored, revealing intricate carvings and vibrant colour details. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to enter outside of the five daily prayer times. Appropriate attire is required, and shoes must be removed before stepping onto the carpeted prayer areas.

The Bayada Islands form a chain of small coral formations in the Red Sea, roughly a 40-minute boat journey from Jeddah. Known for their clear, shallow turquoise waters and surrounding reefs, they are a popular local destination for snorkelling and diving. Several operators in Jeddah run day trips to the area, typically lasting around six hours and often including opportunities for swimming and water sports. While the "Maldives of Jeddah" nickname suggests a certain level of tropical splendour, the islands are best appreciated for their accessibility and the chance they offer to experience the Red Sea's marine environment on a half-day excursion.