The Beitou area of Taipei is renowned for its high concentration of thermal spa centres. There are establishments to fit any budget, from the low-priced open-air Public Hot Spring (modest swimwear required) to private hotels and resorts uphill, all offering hot spring baths at various price points. One option most resorts offer is renting a private room with a large bath that can be filled with hot spring water. The Spring City Resort in Beitou is a great mid-range option. A session here includes access to about a dozen thermal pools of varying water temperature (from seemingly boiling-hot to rather chilly), plus robe, towel, and slipper rental. They even offer a free shuttle bus to the metro station. For a luxurious spa treatment, look into the offerings of Hotel Regent Taipei, for example. Wellspring Spa offers a wide range of relaxing treatments including massages, body wraps, skin polishing and facials. Take the elevator to the top floor and unwind at this urban sanctuary.

Carthage, the fabled fallen city, lies partially excavated among the whitewashed villas of the most affluent suburb of Tunis. A short drive from the city centre, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a Mediterranean powerhouse — a wealthy trading hub that stirred ancient myths, poems and rivalries. The archaeological park reveals remnants of the Carthaginian Empire and later Roman rule: 2nd-century BC theatres, baths and residential ruins stand testament to its layered history.

The Japanese Garden, a peaceful retreat near the city centre, offers respite from urban heat and dust. Its shaded paths wind past a tranquil lake, arched bridges and quiet corners ideal for walking, cycling, or yoga. While lacking modern playgrounds, the park’s calm atmosphere attracts locals relaxing or roller skating through its greenery.

Travelers who have time to leave Aberdeen for a day trip should head out to Castle Fraser. A magnificent building dating back to 1575, featuring historic furnishings, paintings and embroidery, the impressive Great Hall, and a library filled with family books, as well as concert space, parks, woodland walks, a tea room and a children’s adventure playroom.