White Pines Park and Lake, adjacent to the town of Arnold on scenic Ebbetts Pass, provide families with a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake itself is quite the hidden gem: plan a picnic by the lakeside for a lazy Sunday. For those seeking an active weekend, take to White Pines Community Park for BBQs, paths, a playground, a group area, a beach, and a softball field.

Marzipan's triumphal march began in Lübeck. The factory - still headquartered in Lübeck - was established by Georg Niederegger (1777 - 1856) and is still owned by the Niederegger family. Directly opposite the Town Hall in the heart of the Old Town is the famous Café Niederegger with the marzipan salon. The history of the "harem confectionery" can be found on the second floor and takes the visitor back through the centuries tracing the origins of the almond speciality on its long journey from the orient to Lübeck.

Right outside the Dadar station, the crowd of people flows into this tiny street filled with vendors and their red, blue and yellow bouquets of flowers. If you're up for it, you can also bargain with them to get a chance at an even lower price.

Dominating the skyline from its hilltop perch, the Shwedagon Pagoda is a must-see in Yangon. As one of the most significant Buddhist sites globally, it remains a vital part of daily life in the city. The pagoda is adorned with nearly 80,000 precious stones, including 5,448 diamonds, 2,317 rubies, and a stunning 76-carat diamond atop its golden crown. Open from dawn, it draws worshippers from early morning until late evening, making it a truly dynamic and sacred space. As a living, practising religious site, visitors should observe certain customs when visiting. Shoes and socks must be removed, and respectful attire, such as no shorts, is required. When exploring the pagoda, remember to walk clockwise, beginning from the left. This is a common practice at all Buddhist sites and shows respect for the tradition. While at the pagoda, be mindful of how you sit—avoid pointing your feet towards any Buddha images, and instead, tuck them underneath you. Observe how the locals sit, often cross-legged, and follow their lead. In addition, try to minimise disruptions while taking photos, as the people around you are engaged in worship and may prefer not to be photographed. A gentle approach ensures a respectful visit to this sacred site.