For adrenaline-pumping rides, head to Happy Valley Beijing, Beijing’s main theme park, with six themed zones, around 40 rides, an IMAX theatre, and a shopping area. It’s popular with both locals and tourists, so weekends and holidays can be very busy.

With its stunning natural beauty, the island's north coast should be on every Dominican itinerary. The landscape here is woven with a tapestry of lush rainforest, towering cliffs and otherworldly red rocks, embraced not only by heavenly beaches — such as Batibou — but also freshwater pools fed by rivers. Snorkelling gear and hiking boots are a must. BNe sure to also linger in the village of Calibishie, for a trip to the Pointe Baptiste Chocolate Factory or a savoury meal on a terrace overlooking the sea.

Undoubtedly one of the world’s top tourism destinations — and officially one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — the Great Wall stretches for thousands of kilometres across northern China. From Beijing, the easiest section to reach is Badaling, about 70 km from the city. It’s well restored and has a cable car, but it also draws the biggest crowds. Mutianyu is another popular choice with fewer tour groups if you go early. For a wilder feel, head to Simatai or Jinshanling, where much of the wall is original and the hikes are longer. Huanghuacheng is partly submerged by a reservoir, so you get the unusual sight of watchtowers half surrounded by water.

Just behind the Forbidden City, Beihai Park is one of Beijing’s oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens. It’s quieter than some of the larger tourist spots, with lakes, pavilions, and tree-lined paths perfect for a stroll — the central White Dagoba on Qionghua Island is a highlight here.