Pico do Fogo, Cape Verde's youngest and most active volcano, towers beautifully but menacingly over the island of Fogo. The mesmerising black volcanic soil is reminiscent of similar fiery peaks in Hawaii and Iceland and is used to grow coffee. A small community, Chã das Caldeiras, is precariously located in the caldera very near the peak, and adventurers can hike up the imposing 2,829 metres for unparalleled views of the island.

The Jordan Museum offers a chronological journey through 1.5 million years of history, from Paleolithic tools to modern Jordanian culture. As the country’s premier cultural institution, it houses globally significant artefacts like the 9,700-year-old ‘Ain Ghazal statues — the world’s oldest human figurines — and fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Exhibits pair these treasures with bilingual (English/Arabic) narratives that contextualise Jordan’s archaeological legacy without overwhelming casual visitors. The museum’s modern galleries balance education and aesthetics, with interactive displays and temporary exhibitions ensuring fresh perspectives. Allot two hours to appreciate its dual role as research hub and national showcase.

Once a federal prison housing dangerous and notorious criminals, Alcatraz (The Rock) now welcomes tourists into the cell blocks once occupied by the likes of Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelley, and the Birdman of Alcatraz. Self-guided audio tours have dramatic narratives of Alcatraz’s grim history, including realistic sound effects one would hear in prison. Apart from the prison complex itself, Alcatraz Island essentially operates as a national park. You can spend a full day hiking, taking in the view from multiple observation points and appreciating the natural beauty.

The spectacular Roman Theatre, although restored in the late 20th century, remains largely true to the way it was once conceptualised in as early as 2nd century AD. It's a highlight for most visitors to Amman, used as a venue to house open-air concerts and shows in the summer.