Havana's vibrant Old Town is where the Cuban capital of today took root in the mid-16th century. UNESCO World Heritage Site status has brought about comprehensive restoration work to many of the city's crumbling architectural treasures, built in styles as wide-ranging as Cuban baroque and art nouveau (Plaza Vieja at the heart of Old Havana is where the eclecticism is most evident and best admired from a sidewalk cafe). The Old Town's two main pedestrian thoroughfares – Obispo and Mercaderes – are lined with government-run shops and attractive paladars.

In the Southwest of Mauritius lies the island's biggest natural reserves, the Black River Gorges National Park. Covering an area of 6,754 hectares, it dates back to 1994, when it was established to safeguard what remained of the native Mauritian forests, and to protect the island's endangered species, like the Mauritian flying fox and the Mauritian parakeet.

La Romana's unlikely dining scene champion is Shish Kabab, a Middle Eastern restaurant serving a wide array of delectable dishes of world cuisine (with an emphasis on Lebanese and local Dominican fare). Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Inside the Maritim Resort & Spa Hotel, you will find fascinating ruins that, back in the early 18th century, were built as a fortress by the first French governor of Mauritius, Mahe de Labourdonnais, in order to protect the island from possible incursions. The fortress, which also housed an arsenal, exploded in 1774 and since then remains as a remnant of Mauritian history. Visitors are advised to contact the Maritim Resort & Spa before visiting in order to check availability.