In the days of the tsars, the people who enjoyed themselves in the Riviera’s casinos until late on Saturday night, were not exactly short of money. They went here, to church though, on Sundays. After the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe, things are much as they were in the old days, but thick wads of dollars now rain down on the Riviera — and the beautifully restored cathedral. Strict dress code applies.

The Linnaeus Garden is a lush oasis with a beautiful orangery, right in the centre of Uppsala, where you can find over 1,000 species arranged according to Linnaeus’ ‘Systema Naturæ’. Wander amongst the plants and enjoy the profusion of flowers whilst relaxing with a coffee or some lunch in the restaurant and café. The garden is also home to Linnaeus’ residence, which now features a museum where you can learn more about the so-called King of Flowers and the period in which he lived. The Garden and Professor’s Residence (Linnaeus Museum) is open from May through September.

San Juan Botanical Garden has more than 200 species of tropical and subtropical vegetation, and it is the Universidad de Puerto Rico's main attraction. Stroll around the lotus lagoon, walk along the bamboo promenade and admire the orchid and palm gardens.

This mansion, built in 1521, was designed to protect governor Ponce de León, who, ironically, never lived there. The Spanish militia seized the house in 1779. Almost 100 years later, the U.S. military took it over and kept it until 1966, after which it was transformed into a museum.