In Bali, dance isn’t just for show—it’s how stories are told, spirits honoured, and traditions passed down. You’ll see hypnotic Legong and Joged dances, the dramatic Barong show (good vs. evil, Balinese-style), and scenes from the Ramayana brought to life through movement and gamelan music. For a classic experience, head to Batubulan for open-air Barong performances each morning. Wayang kulit (shadow puppet theatre) still pops up at art centres and during special festivals. Many hotels also host traditional shows most evenings—so it’s easy to catch one without much planning.

Pearl collecting has long been a central tradition in Bahrain, and the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Center brings this heritage to life. Located in the former capital, Muharraq, the site tells the story of the village’s roads, houses, and daily life during the pearling era. The restored historic homes provide a glimpse into how people once lived, while the trail itself reflects the cultural and economic importance of pearling, which once dominated the Gulf. Today, the Pearling Path offers a walking route through some of Muharraq’s oldest and most atmospheric neighbourhoods.

Lake Atanasovsko, located just north of Burgas, is a coastal salt lake known for its vivid pink hues. The Instagram-ready colours are caused by the microalgae Dunaliella salina. Spanning a vast area, the lake is divided into two sections. The northern part is a protected nature reserve, home to over 300 bird species, including rare and endangered waterfowl like Dalmatian pelicans and white herons. The southern section is used for traditional sun-and-shovel powered salt production, yielding around 40,000 tons annually. The lake’s high salinity and mineral-rich mud are believed to have therapeutic properties, attracting visitors seeking natural remedies for skin conditions, arthritis, and other ailments. A designated birdwatching shelter near the lake’s edge offers observation spots for wildlife enthusiasts. Access is restricted to marked paths to preserve the delicate ecosystem. With its unique blend of natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural significance, Lake Atanasovsko is a remarkable destination on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast.

The Lighthouse at the Port of Burgas, the first Bulgarian port lighthouse, has guided ships since the late 19th century. Designed by Sabi Denev and unintentionally looking like a red-and-white candy cane, it stands as a symbol of the city, visible from Central Beach and the Pier. While public access is restricted, the walk to the lighthouse offers panoramic sea views, though the route is unshaded, making early morning or late afternoon visits more comfortable. The surrounding area, with its wave-breaking concrete structures, provides a striking contrast and a peaceful spot to enjoy the sea.