This is an exquisite early 1900’s Art Nouveau palace – the most ornate in Poland – with stained-glass windows, gorgeous wood detailing and glamorous chandeliers. A small art gallery (part of the Municipal Gallery of Art) is currently housed inside.

The Marine Science Center is a hands-on hub for wildlife conservation and education. Visitors can explore the turtle rehabilitation area and watch as staff care for injured and endangered sea turtles. The seabird rehabilitation sanctuary is a haven for birds recovering from injuries. For a truly interactive experience, don’t miss the stingray touch pool, where you can get up close with these interesting creatures.

Brooklyn blends history with constant reinvention. Williamsburg draws crowds with its mix of independent shops, vintage finds, and late-night spots, while the borough’s landmarks never lose their pull. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge for skyline views, head to Coney Island for a classic boardwalk experience and a Nathan’s Famous hot dog, and spend time at the Brooklyn Museum, home to one of the country’s most impressive art collections. Next door, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers a calm break from city life. Down by the waterfront, DUMBO’s cobblestone streets and bridge views make it a favorite for photos and coffee breaks, while nearby Prospect Park offers a quieter, more local version of Central Park. And for a different type of culture, check out the 150-year-old Brooklyn Academy of Music and its calendar full of avant-garde plays, dances, music, literary events, and lectures.

Ships have been docking here since the 11th century and Ghent wouldn’t have it any other way. It is like the song of the Lorelei. The beauty of the Graslei in Ghent brings everyone and everything to a standstill. This is the place where beautiful façades are reflected in the River Lys. Tourists and residents alike relax on either side of the water, whether dangling their legs over the quay, or sitting comfortably at a café terrace. Lovely Grasbrug This bridge is positively poetic. And it’s every Ghent native’s pride. On your visit to Ghent, it would be a sin to miss this little bridge just around the corner from the Korenmarkt. Cross the river at the Grasbrug and soak in the scenery. There are still boats moored at the quays today. Even better, nowadays you can take a boat ride yourself! There’s nothing that will immerse you more in the history of Ghent. Façades on the Graslei The houses by the water live and breathe history. The Cooremetershuys is now an accessory store. In the Middle Ages, however, the official corn measurer presided over the grain trade there. Have a good look at the completely restored façade of the Guild House of the Free Sailors as well. A lot of money has been invested in this building over the centuries, and it shows! The stately stepped gable from the old corn store has been watching over the town since the 13th century. The corn store—also known as ’t spijker—has been redefined. It’s come a long way from those old sacks of grain. Of course you don’t have to push the boat out quite that far. You can also try a cosy brasserie on the Graslei or Korenlei. Or why not just buy finger food and sit down on the quayside! Because sometimes, appreciating the little things is the most romantic. Aperitif in the sun Tempted by all those café terraces? There is nothing more blissful than enjoying an aperitif—or two—by the waterside. When the sun is shining, this is a delightful spot to hang out ensconced by beautiful old buildings. Enjoying the first warmth of a spring day with a chilled white wine, putting the world to rights…but anyway, we digress.