Let's travel back in time. Tai O once was one of the major fishing ports in Hong Kong. Because of its traditional stilt houses above the water, many have called it the "Venice of Hong Kong", though the smell of shrimp paste and dried seafood everywhere might break your fantasy of a romantic seaside village. The market, fishing boats, and age-old dwellings make Tai O a great place for photographers. Don't eat too much lunch, make some room for local snacks: egg waffles, big fish balls, tofu pudding, and grilled seafood.

The unique colour of the sand and the breathtaking volcanic landscape make this beach a must-see destination. Its particular rock formations treat travellers to stunning views, and the smooth, mirror-like sea creates a contrast with the bold red of the shore. The beach is pebbly and not ideal for lying, though its rock formations make it perfect for snorkelling.

Schloss Benrath (Benrath Palace) was built as a pleasure and hunting palace for the Elector Carl Theodor. Today, the ensemble in its artistic unity of buildings, interior and gardens, 60 hectares in all, is considered one of Europe’s rare complete works of art of the late baroque period. The main palace building (corps de logis), with its furniture, porcelain, paintings, etc., gives an impression of court life in the second half of the 18th century. The eastern wing houses the “Museum für Europäische Gartenkunst” (Museum of European Garden Art) and the western wing the “Museum für Naturkunde” (Museum of Natural Sciences).