Adjacent to a famous beach with basic amenities, this aptly named diving spot offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Dominica's colourful marine life. Underwater exploration is made unique by the incessant bubbling of water thanks to the volcanic hot springs, complemented by a coral reef of golden (well, champagne) colour. Snorkel highlights include octopuses, water lilies, eels, sea horses — and a centuries-old shipwreck.

Situated at the foot of Morne Bruce, Roseau's favourite lookout spot, this 40-acre botanical garden is a convenient option to explore Dominica's indigenous species. Doubling as an event venue today, it nonetheless offers an educational and no less spectacular walk among palm trees, orchids, medicinal plants and the parrot sanctuary — keep an eye out for the Sisserou parrot, Dominica's national bird. As a curious testimony to the park's hurricane-stricken past, you can even find the remains of a bus at the foot of a baobab tree.

Emilia Romagna might be the best region of Italy for culinary exploration. Visit a prosciutto producer like Salumificio Conti — one of the local family-run ham factories producing the mythical Prosciutto di Parma PDO. Spend some time with the makers of Parmigiano Reggiano, who have kept the traditional methods alive since the Benedictine monks invented the process 10 centuries ago. Curdling into the typical copper heaters, salting and the final ageing in the so-called wheel cathedrals. Taste the savoury masterpiece in the end, of course. Make your trip longer and learn the secrets of the best balsamic vinegar at Tenuta Medici Ermete. Parma is the gateway to Italy's culinary heritage. With many tours, you can choose to drive yourself or get a driver for a more sit-back experience.