Tucked away in the heart of the Barri Vell, the Escales de Sant Martí (St. Martin’s Steps) form one of Girona’s most iconic and photographed scenes, also featured on Game of Thrones. This timeless corner blends medieval romance with Baroque grandeur, framed by the 17th-century façade of the former Convent of Sant Martí and the striking Casa-Palau Agullana. The palace’s skewed arch stretches over the steps, creating a covered passage that feels both intimate and theatrical — a favourite backdrop for artists and Instagrammers. Even though often busy with visitors, the spot retains a quiet magic, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Sit on the steps with a coffee, and watch as the city’s history unfolds in every shadow and angle.

About 80 km from Hangzhou city and just an easy hour bus ride away, Wu Zhen is a town where time passes without notice. More and more tourists have discovered the time-worn cobbled stone streets, crow-stepped gable, wooden doors and long, narrow alleys of Wu Zhen. Still, the life of the locals seem undisturbed. They still keep to their traditional customs, like drinking Sanbai Wine, making traditional maltose and sipping morning tea until 9.30 am, the same leisurely and pleasing way their great grandfathers did. With the newly created Wu Zhen International Theater Festival, the town shows also a touch of modern culture.

The Lake Constance Festival, better known as Bodensee-Festival, annually and under changing topics displays about 80 events at up to 35 venues. The festival sees itself primarily as an interdisciplinary arts event that every year presents orchestral, chamber and organ orchestras, jazz, theatre, dance and literature as essential parts of its unique program.

World Heritage-listed Fraser Island has a traditional name, given to it by the native people — K'gari, which literally means Paradise. The world's biggest sand island is a haven for wildlife. Make sure you take a dip in Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby.