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.

This educational museum tells the fascinating story of silk - from silk worms to finished product (some exquisite exhibits are on display), with demonstration of traditional weaving techniques. Admission is free, and explanations in English are provided.

Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, the picturesque Lake of the Restored Sword, or Hoan Kiem Lake, captivates travellers with its beauty and rich cultural significance. According to the legend, Emperor Le Loi was gifted a magical sword by a divine turtle, which he later returned to the lake, earning it its evocative name. Today, visitors flock to this iconic landmark to stroll along its scenic shores, admire the Turtle Tower standing sentinel in the water, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of its surrounding streets.

A romantic hotspot par excellence! Once people believed that water nymphs ('minnen' in Flemish) lived here, and thus the lake got its name. Add to that a tragic love story, mysterious trees and an abundance of greenery and you get a place overflowing with romance. How about an Instagram post? The finest photos can be taken from the Lake of Love bridge, or by the Lockhouse. A hit even without filters.