Winner of the European Museum of the Year award (2013), the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel contains some rare example of vintage vehicles, ranging from old-model trams to cars and even chariots. The state-of-the-art interactive displays and exhibits are guaranteed to appeal to various age groups.

The Bremer Geschichtenhaus offers a distinctive take on Bremen's history through interactive storytelling. Actors in costumes recount some of the most popular stories in the city, bringing history to life before your eyes. Although the stories are only in German, the museum still provides a worthwhile experience, even for those who may not understand the language, thanks to its engaging approach.

On the appropriately named island of Sal (salt in English), just to the east of Espargos, is the 1.8-kilometre wide crater of Pedra de Lume, an extinct volcano crater which is now home to the Pedra de Lume Salt Flats. Though salt extraction is now inactive, it is still a fascinating visit and an interesting view, with white fields of salt and a natural lake filling the crater.

Colombier Beach is St Barts’ crowning escape — a crescent of white sand accessible only by boat or two scenic hiking trails, ensuring its pristine seclusion. The Flamands Trail (20-30 minutes) starts past Petite Anse, winding along cactus-dotted cliffs with glimpses of rocky shores. For panoramic vistas, take the Colombier Lookout Trail (30-45 minutes) from the viewpoint parking lot, descending past iguanas sunning on volcanic boulders to reach the shore. Protected by a hilly peninsula, the bay’s calm waters reveal sea turtles and coral. Don’t forget to pack your snorkel! History lingers at the western edge, where hurricane-topped ruins of Laurence Rockefeller’s 1950s villa stand guard. No facilities mean packing sun shelter and water; early mornings reward hikers with empty sands and gentler heat.