Tōfuku-ji Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Zen temples in Kyōto for its wonderful and extensive gardens. The original buildings were burnt down but rebuilt faithfully to the original in the 15th century. In 1881, a blazing fire destroyed the Buddha hall, which was never again rebuilt. The complex' main gate is the oldest sanmon in Japan and a National Treasure. Today, the temple welcomes thousands of visitors throughout the year; to make their experience even more unforgettable, it offers regular Zen meditation sessions for beginners (only in Japanese). Note that the temple is overcrowded during autumn as a favourite haunt to witness kōyō (the falling of colourful leaves).

At the foot of Kyōto's eastern mountains, Ginkaku-ji (Temple of the Silver Pavillion) was completed in 1490 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, and, much like its sibling Kinkaku-ji, it belongs to the Rinzai Zen sect. Despite still being known as the Silver Temple, the Shogun's goal of covering the building in leaf silver was never accomplished. Today, the wooden building is considered a prime example of the Japanese concept of 'wabi-sabi' (embracing imperfection).

Any road trip in Ireland will invariably pass through the Shannon region. If you find yourself in Limerick, start at the river’s end and arrive in rugged north Kerry by following the southern coastline of the estuary. It is thanks to the river’s water that this region is so green, so enjoy the scenery by taking your sweet time on a scenic tour from Kittycloghar to Mohill in County Leitrim. The Shannon Erne Tour starts in Carrick-on-Shannon, Ballinamore, Carrigallen, Dromod, Jamestown and returns to Carrick-On-Shannon in the end, with a length of approx 92km. Carrick-on-Shannon, the cruising capital, is home to the smallest chapel in Europe, while Ballinamore is an angler’s paradise with 40 lakes in a 10 km radius. The Lough Rynn estate in Mohill features 100 acres of rare woodland and exotic walled ornamental gardens, whereas Dromod houses the Cavan and Leitrim Railway. Jamestown, in the and, and named after King James 1, was a walled and fortified city that still holds one of the gates until today.

Located in the southeastern part of Varna, the Roman Baths are the largest ancient public building discovered in Bulgaria. This remarkably well-preserved site offers visitors a chance to walk through history and admire the intricate details of the original structure. The affordable entrance fee makes it an excellent value, and it is considered one of the most important historical sites in Varna. After exploring, visitors can relax at the museum café.