Experience the history and adventures of the Swedish ship Götheborg, the world's largest ocean-going wooden sailing ship, which sailed three times to Asia and sank outside of Gothenburg in 1745. Come on board this replica of the original Götheborg, where guides, dressed in 18th-century costumes, tell the story of the harsh life on board the ship, the expeditions of today, and the tremendous art of shipbuilding.

There are two annual major events that bring international acts to the city and attract a large number of visitors. Dontaku takes place at the beginning of May and Yamasaka is a huge event lasting two weeks in July. If you are around at this time of the year make sure to check out what's on the programme.

Samarra is a small yet historically rich city located approximately 125 kilometres north of Baghdad. Founded in 836 AD by the Abbasid Caliph al-Mu'tasim, it holds deep significance for Sunni Muslims and features some of Iraq's most iconic Islamic architecture. The easiest way to visit Samarra is on a day trip from Baghdad. Head to the Alawi garage to catch a shared taxi or minivan. A one-way journey in a minivan costs around 10,000 Iraqi dinars. Shared taxis are slightly more expensive but offer a faster and more comfortable ride. Samarra’s most famous landmark is the spiral minaret of the Great Mosque, which was once among the largest mosques in the world. The minaret stands at 52 metres and features a distinctive spiral ramp that winds its way to the top. Climbing the minaret is not always allowed and it is unclear when it's possible to climb it and when it's not. There's also another similar minaret nearby called the Abu Dulaf Minaret, located 28 kilometres from the Great Mosque. Samarra is also home to the Askariyya Shrine, an important site that is sacred to Shia Muslims due to the tombs of the tenth and eleventh Imams. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed inside, but modest dress, respectful behaviour, and compliance with local customs are expected. Due to the shrine’s religious importance, security is very tight and includes several checkpoints. As a predominantly Sunni city in a complex religious landscape, Samarra maintains strict security protocols, particularly for foreigners. If you're not part of an organised tour, expect to be the only foreigner on the journey. This may result in added scrutiny at checkpoints, including detailed passport checks and questions about your travel plans.

Bačvice is the closest beach to downtown Split and, though it gets extremely crowded in summer, is a delightful spot to relax under the hot sun. Hide from the heat and rehydrate at any of the numerous quaint cafes frequented by locals playing picigin, a ball game that sees its origin here in Split.