Perched atop the stark white cliffs of Pamukkale lies Hierapolis — an ancient city that's as rich in history as it is in thermal springs. Once a Phrygian cult centre and later a flourishing Greek city, Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved amphitheatre, an array of atmospheric ruins, and the famed Sacred Pool — a thermally heated delight where you can immerse yourself amidst submerged Roman columns, scattered by an ancient earthquake. Just a stone's throw away, the terraces of Pamukkale steal the show. These gleaming white formations, made of travertine — a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich hot waters — give the town its name, meaning 'Cotton Castle'. With temperatures ranging from 35°C to a steamy 100°C, these hot springs have been creating an expanding landscape of terraces for centuries, as calcium carbonate from the waters crystallises into the soft gel of travertine. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, Hierapolis and Pamukkale offer a unique fusion of cultural history and natural wonder that should not be missed.

Located near Shuiwantou Bay, Design Society is China’s first cultural and design centre, a cutting-edge space dedicated to promoting creativity and design. In collaboration with London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, this art centre showcases a diverse range of contemporary design exhibitions and fosters the rapidly growing design scene in Southern China. Beyond the exhibits, the building itself is a work of art, with a lush roof garden offering a peaceful escape.

The fluted minaret Yivliminare Mosque was built by the Sultan Ala ad-Din Kay Qubadh I in the 13th century. Decorated with dark blue tiles, is a landmark and symbol of the city. Just a stone's throw away lies the bustling city centre, along with an evocative equestrian statue of Kemal Atatürk, adding to the location's vibrant appeal.