In addition to being the centre for Bucharest’s intellectual and political events and the most popular meeting place in the city, the University of Bucharest has a dramatic history. During the 1989 Revolution, some of Romania’s fiercest fighting took place here. Close by you can find the University of Bucharest’s School of Architecture, the National Theatre, the Coltea Hospital and the Sutu Palace (History Museum). A Christmas market is held at the University Square every year, but you can find excellent restaurants and cafes in the area all year round.

The Beitou area of Taipei is renowned for its high concentration of thermal spa centres. There are establishments to fit any budget, from the low-priced open-air Public Hot Spring (modest swimwear required) to private hotels and resorts uphill, all offering hot spring baths at various price points. One option most resorts offer is renting a private room with a large bath that can be filled with hot spring water. The Spring City Resort in Beitou is a great mid-range option. A session here includes access to about a dozen thermal pools of varying water temperature (from seemingly boiling-hot to rather chilly), plus robe, towel, and slipper rental. They even offer a free shuttle bus to the metro station. For a luxurious spa treatment, look into the offerings of Hotel Regent Taipei, for example. Wellspring Spa offers a wide range of relaxing treatments including massages, body wraps, skin polishing and facials. Take the elevator to the top floor and unwind at this urban sanctuary.

This 377.36 km2 park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Wooded areas cover over 40% of the park, with species such as brown bears, dear, chamois and wolves roaming free. Rare flora and fauna can be admired on one of the 3 walking routes: Ruta del Alaba (4 hours) - Easy Starting at the hamlet of Soto de Agues 5 kms from Rio Seco, this walk runs parallel to the River Alba. Desfiladero de los Arrudos (5 ½ hours) This walk starts from Caleao, following the gorge. Bezanes to Brañagallones (+/- 5 ½ hours) This walk climbs up a track from the village of Bezanes to the meadows of Brañagallones in the site of an old glacial lake.