The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offer a rare, up-close look at Ice Age fossils still being uncovered in the heart of Los Angeles. Tens of thousands of years ago, tar trapped mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves, preserving their remains for modern paleontologists to study. Today, visitors can explore these discoveries in the museum, watch scientists at work in the Fossil Lab, and even see active excavation sites like Project 23, where new fossils are unearthed daily.

There are two waterfalls in the vicinity of Nha Trang, both of which make for excellent excursions into nature. Ba Ho Falls, at a distance of roughly 30km north of central Nha Trang, are the falls that attract most visitors. You will need a ride to reach the entrance to the natural area (get a taxi or Grab). Bring swimwear, sturdy shoes (not flip-flops), and your own water. Note that water volumes may vary dramatically depending on whether you visit during or outside the dry season (January through August). Another option is Fairy Spring Waterfalls (Suối Tiên), mostly favoured by local youth. These are much smaller compared to Ba Ho, but there is still an opening fit for swimming. There is a small admission fee to visit both falls.

The Daciensi Temple complex, anchored by the striking Daciensi Tower, stands as one of Xi’an’s most treasured landmarks. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty by Emperor Gaozong in memory of his mother, this historic site carries the weight of centuries. Legend has it that after the famed monk Xuanzang's epic journey to India to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures, he returned here to translate them, setting up the temple as one of the earliest centres of Buddhist learning in China. Within the temple grounds, the iconic Dayan Pagoda (also known as the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda) draws most of the attention. Built in the 7th century, it’s an enduring symbol of China’s first female ruler, Empress Wu Zetian, and her devotion to Buddhist teachings. Architecturally, the pagoda is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty design, and climbing its steep, stone steps rewards you with sweeping views of Xi’an below.