Xi'an’s largest Taoist temple, the Temple of the Eight Immortals, dates back to the Song Dynasty and remains an active place of worship. The temple was supposedly built on the site of an ancient wine shop and is said to have been constructed to protect against subterranean divine thunder. As you explore the temple, you'll notice vivid scenes from Taoist mythology painted around the courtyard. The temple also has an intriguing historical connection: in 1901, Empress Cixi, mother of China’s last emperor, sought refuge here after fleeing Beijing during the Boxer Rebellion.

The Royal Opera House, opened in 2011, is a relatively recent yet critical addition to the Omani cultural scene where the Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said himself is a regular. Sleek on the outside, the white-stone building boasts elaborate inner décor that serves as the backdrop to some of the world’s finest performances.

Witnessing the age-old craft of leather treatment at the Bab Debbagh tanneries is a fascinating experience. Situated near a river for water supply, these tanneries have been operating for centuries. The distinctive odour, resulting from ammonia used in the leather-softening process, will let you know you've arrived. Unlike some other Moroccan tanneries, the focus here is on treating leather in its natural state; the dyeing happens elsewhere. Visiting the site can be a bit tricky due to the presence of unofficial 'guides' demanding payment. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider hiring a certified guide as part of a medina tour. Otherwise, prepare to navigate past these unofficial attendants by offering a small tip and insisting on entering without their assistance.