The Arab Baths are a striking example of 12th-century Romanesque architecture, inspired by Roman and Islamic bathhouse traditions rather than built by them. Designed during a period of Christian rule, they served as public baths for Girona’s diverse medieval community, blending functional elements from Roman thermae, Muslim hammams, and Jewish purification rituals. The centrepiece is the apodyterium (changing room), a sublime octagonal space crowned by a dome and supported by slender columns, where a central pool reflects light from above. Other rooms — the frigidarium (cold bath), tepidarium (warm room) and furnace-heated caldarium (sauna) — showcase sophisticated hydraulic engineering. Despite damage during sieges and later use by Capuchin nuns, the baths were meticulously restored in the 20th century. Today, they offer a quiet glimpse into medieval daily life and the cross-cultural exchanges that defined the era.

Every corner of Hanoi's Old Quarter offers a unique and immersive experience that invites travellers to uncover the heart and soul of the city's ancient charm. Get lost in its narrow alleys lined with centuries-old buildings, where roadside stalls and bustling markets offer tantalising street food delights and handcrafted souvenirs. Discover hidden temples and pagodas nestled amidst the labyrinthine streets. Take a break with a cup of fragrant Vietnamese coffee. And why not finish your day by watching the historic Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?

The Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol is a Gothic fortress transformed by Salvador Dalí into a secluded shrine for his wife and muse. Acquired in 1969, the medieval structure became a stage for their unconventional relationship — Dalí could only visit with Gala’s written invitation. He personally designed the interiors, blending Baroque furnishings with surreal touches: trompe l’oeil radiators, spindly-legged elephant sculptures in the garden, and celestial frescoes honouring Gala as a divine figure. After Gala’s death in 1982, the castle became her mausoleum (she lies entombed in the crypt) and Dalí’s final studio. Today, you can explore rooms frozen in time, from Gala’s lavish wardrobe to the artist’s melancholic paintings. Part love letter, part psychological portrait, it completes the “Dalí Triangle” alongside his Portlligat home and Figueres museum.

Embark on an exhilarating tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, where history and natural beauty intertwine harmoniously. Begin your adventure by visiting Hoa Lu, once the capital of Vietnam. Then, explore Mua Cave and take in views from the mountain above. Next, glide through the mystical Tam Coc caves on a scenic boat ride. For a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, savour a tasty lunch by the Ngo Dong River. Finally, cap off your day with a bike ride through lush fields to the Bich Dong Pagoda cave temples.