Völklinger Hütte, one of the world's largest iron works spreading across six hectares, was established in 1873, and has remained remarkably intact during its operation spanning the next hundred years. Today, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it functions as a museum and science centre, offering interesting insight into the industry's history.

Banana boats are a lot of fun, and a very popular water activity among tourists. The boats come in different sizes. You can fit 3 to 10 people on one banana boat per ride. You find these boats on almost all of the beaches across the island, where they can be hired.

Flamands Beach stretches across St Barts’ northwestern coast as the island’s widest crescent of sand, where gentle slopes meet the Caribbean’s playful surf. Unlike more secluded shores, this beach balances public access (via a signed coastal road pathway) with pockets of exclusivity — think billionaire-owned villas and hotels renting loungers at the eastern end. The north-facing bay delivers consistent waves for bodyboarding, framed by hilly headlands and views of offshore islets like Île Chevreau. Come hungry: La Langouste’s grilled lobster and Chez Roland’s Creole dishes are both a short stroll away. Just don’t expect shade — the beach’s pearly expanse promises uninterrupted sunshine, with the occasional celebrity sighting as a bonus.

Laze away the day at Cataract Gorge Reserve only a few minutes from the centre of Launceston. There are peacocks and wallabies, rock climbing and a swimming pool at this popular urban playground. Follow a pathway along the cliff face looking down onto the South Esk River. On the shady northern side, known as the Cliff Grounds, is a Victorian garden with ferns and exotic plants. Wander across the footbridge and take a chairlift ride across the river.