Once a year, generally in the first week of September, Bird & Nature week participants will be invited in small groups to help catch Abbott’s Boobies high in the rainforest canopy, assist to colour-band Brown Boobies and monitor their colonies on the remote and secluded rocky coasts. Participants will work with our internationally renowned guides to study the nesting biology and foraging ecology of Christmas Island Frigatebirds and Red-tailed Tropicbirds. Depending on interest and demand, there will also be opportunities to assist in the colour-banding of Christmas Island Goshawks, a Christmas Island Hawk-Owl survey, seabird identification workshops, territory mapping of Island Thrushes and closer looks at the island’s other wildlife. Nightly pre-dinner seminars will showcase the results of all the seabird research, the status of the endemic landbirds, the rarities of Christmas Island, and the marine and terrestrial ecology of the island.

GSA Gallery (Gallery Andersson / Sandström) is situated in the old hospital area of Umedalen and specializes in displaying international contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on sculpture. For more information about the current exhibitions, take a look at their website.

This busy square sits at the southern end of Bordeaux’s Old Town and is a popular hangout, especially among students. The 18th-century Porte d’Aquitaine marks one of the city’s old entrances, while a tall obelisk and two bronze tortoises — added in 2005 by Czech sculptor Ivan Theimer — celebrate Bordeaux’s wine culture. Look closely and you’ll spot grape clusters and appellations carved into the sculptures. Around the square, you’ll find casual bars, kebab shops, and small boutiques. It’s more a spot to grab a drink or soak up the atmosphere than a must-see, but it’s a good place to get a feel for local life.

The Athens War Museum is run by the Greek Armed Forces. The exhibitions cover the history of war in all ages, from Mycenaean conflicts all the way to the present day. Great displays of battle grounds, weapons, uniforms, heroic figures and personal items.