If you’re a fan of crystals and minerals, the MIM Mineral Museum in Beirut is a must-visit. Its collection displays gemstones from all over the world in a setting that feels magical. Highlights include the interactive fossil theatre, a 3D installation featuring a flying dinosaur, and even four pieces of meteorite rock. With over 2,000 minerals currently on display, it’s one of the most impressive collections in the region. Even if minerals aren’t usually your thing, the museum presents everything in such an engaging and creative way that it’s easy to get absorbed. Entry is free, though a donation box at the entrance lets you show your support.

Set in the Aosta Valley with spectacular views of Monte Bianco, the traditional alpine village of Courmayeur is one of the most picturesque Italian ski resorts. The range of skiing options makes it suitable for all abilities, be it the gentle beginner’s slopes of the Checrouit-Val Veny or the more demanding upper reaches of Monte Bianco which are more suited to experienced skiers. Other activities to be found around the town include snowshoe walking excursions, indoor climbing, ice skating and a cinema, whilst for those who like their entertainment to be a little more cerebral, there is the nearby ancient town of Aosta and a myriad of medieval castles to explore. After a hard day on the piste head to the atmospheric cobbled alleyways in and around Via Roma and sample the delights of Courmayeur’s restaurants, renowned as the best of any Italian resort. Slope Life: Standing in the shadow of the Monte Bianco-Mount Blanc massif, the beautiful alpine resort of Courmayeur offers 100km of pistes and caters for all levels and abilities. The main hub of the mountain is the Plan Checrouit, but most skiers will use this as a starting point to access more challenging runs on the mountain as can be found at Mount Chetif, Col Cherout and Cresta Youla. At the top of the range there is Cresta d Arp, strictly for high level skiers, offering the chance to experience some good off piste guided skiing. Ski passes are available from 1 to 14 days. All passes valid for 6 to 10 consecutive days may be used for 2 days in one of the other ski resorts of the Aosta Valley, which include the resorts of La Thuile, La Rosière, and Champoluc-Gressoney-Alagna and also include access to Chamonix (lifts on the French side not included, though). Scuola Sci Monte Bianco +39 0165 842477 www.scuolascimontebianco.com Interski +39 0165 304711 www.interski.co.uk If you want to kit yourself out with some go faster skis or if you're looking to keep up with the Courmayeur fashionistas, then there are a number of outlets which can provide what you’re looking for! 4810 Sport 106 Via Roma +39 0165 844345 www.grivel-courmayeur.it Alpineve Loc Plan Checrouit +39 0165 846357 www.alpineve.it

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque is Beirut’s most important and largest mosque, instantly recognisable by its blue dome and four minarets. Built in the Ottoman-Turkish architectural style, it dominates the skyline around Martyrs’ Square and is regarded by locals as a symbol of Lebanese unity. Inside, the mosque is just as impressive. You will be captivated by its chandeliers, intricate Islamic calligraphy, and warm lighting. Tourists are welcome, but it’s essential to respect the dress code and worshippers. Keep in mind that entry is limited to the five daily prayer times.