In front of the Cathedral, the touching statue by Batist Vermeulen commemorates Nello and Patrasche, characters from the 1872 novel "A Dog of Flanders". Set in Antwerp, this tale of enduring friendship between a boy and his dog, culminating in their tragic end at the cathedral, resonates globally, especially in Japan. The statue captures their final, poignant moments together, symbolising unconditional loyalty.

From this spot, with a little stretching and bending, you can see the tops of all five of Old Town's spires. Today, the square remains the social heart of the city, a venue for open-air concerts, handicraft fairs and Medieval markets. Each winter, it's home to the town's Christmas tree — a tradition that stretches back to 1441 — and a buzzing Christmas Market. In spring it hosts the Old Town Days festival, a modern version of a medieval carnival, where traditions from the Middle Ages are kept alive.

Sian Ka’an, meaning ‘where the sky is born’ or ‘gift from heaven’ in the Mayan language, is a remarkable destination renowned for its diverse cultural and biological preservation. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this pristine area is home to over 500 species of birds and the historic Muyil archaeological site, making it a haven for nature and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore Sian Ka’an through Community Tours Sian Ka’an, a non-profit Maya co-op program offering a variety of immersive experiences. From kayaking through serene waters to visiting a local Maya community and learning the traditional art of chewing gum making.

Lie back and watch the stars and constellations dancing spectacularly across the sky. Head towards the city of Dhahran for great sand dunes.