Gulangyu Island, just a quick five-minute ferry ride from Xiamen, is a living museum of 19th-century trade and culture. Once a hub for merchants and diplomats, it became home to grand mansions built by Chinese and foreign traders taking advantage of Xiamen’s open port status. The island’s car-free streets are a joy to wander, weaving through colonial-style villas, leafy gardens, and striking architecture that blends European and Chinese influences. Ferries can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so booking your ticket two to three days in advance is a smart move. Once you’re there, take your time exploring the quieter corners, enjoying the local seafood, or visiting attractions like the Piano Museum or Sunlight Rock for panoramic views.

One of the largest and most interesting museums in the world, the British Museum is home to some of the most treasured historical artefacts ever found. The extensive exhibition includes the Rosetta Stone, Assyrian treasures, Egyptian mummies and the museum's spectacularly illuminated Great Court, where you can find the museum's new restaurant. This restaurant is an ideal spot for taking afternoon tea under the court's spectacular roof. Free tours of the museum and guides are also available. The tours are led by knowledgeable experts in their field of study — don't miss this amazing learning opportunity.

Dubbed the architectural jewel of Luxembourg, the town of Esch-sur-Alzette boasts an incredibly diverse architectural landscape featuring buildings in Art Nouveau, Art Deco, French Neo-Gothic, Modernist and Post-modernist styles. It's an open-air museum of European architectural efforts with guided tours on offer.

London's Chinatown is a vibrant neighbourhood full of authentic Asian restaurants, shops, supermarkets and secret bars, adorned with red lanterns and red arches. Try some authentic buns at BaoziInn Romilly Street, Cantonese staples such as roast duck on rice at Café TPT or drop by Gerrard’s Corner for a generous portion of nostalgia and the adorable retro vibe. There is always something new to explore here!