Beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge lie a network of 18th-century chambers known as the Underground Vaults. Originally used for storage by bridge merchants, these damp, lightless spaces later descended into slums, illicit taverns, and hideouts for criminals and body snatchers. A one-hour guided tour will lead you through this spooky labyrinth, with costumed guides sharing dark tales of the city’s past inhabitants, from the desperate poor to the infamous Burke and Hare body snatchers. For daredevils seeking a stronger thrill, the same operator offers themed variations. These include ghost tours focusing on paranormal activity, tales of persecution and witchcraft, or visits to a nearby cemetery, often incorporating displays of historical torture devices.

The Bronx keeps evolving while holding tight to its roots. It’s home to some of New York’s best green spaces, from the vast Bronx Zoo and Van Cortlandt Park to the New York Botanical Garden, where seasonal displays draw visitors year-round. The borough’s Little Italy on Arthur Avenue is a must for old-school bakeries and family-run trattorias, and Yankee Stadium remains a top stop whether you’re catching a game or taking a behind-the-scenes tour. Literature fans can visit the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, where the author spent his final years, while the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum offers a look at 19th-century life inside one of the city’s most elegant estates. For something more contemporary, explore the Bronx’s creative side through its growing street art scene and deep ties to hip-hop, which was born here in the 1970s and continues to shape its identity today.

The National Gandhi Museum has numerous exhibits depicting the life of Indian political activist Mahatma Gandhi. Going back to 1948 when his assassination took place, the exhibition intends to give a fresh insight into the life of the leader of the Indian independence movement and his non-violent opposition and philosophy.

The Antwerp Zoo was founded in 1843, which makes it one of the oldest zoos worldwide and the oldest in Belgium. About 5,000 animals from 950 species call this zoo their home. They live in monumental buildings and an impressive, meticulously maintained garden. A visit to the Zoo is a dose of pure relaxation in the middle of the city.