County Kildare is home to the windswept Bog of Allen, and to a leisurely section of the restored Royal Canal. There’s a masterpiece of an 8th-century High Cross in Moone. Maynooth Castle anchors the leafy university town of the same name. Kildare is also home to one of Ireland’s great driving routes. Following the course of the Gordon Bennett Cup, which saw racing daredevils whizz through Kildare, Carlow and Laois in 1903, the 104-mile circuit recalls a time when Ireland’s speed limit was just 12mph. The county is a marvellous mix of old and new, of natural landscapes and precisely manicured gardens, of horseracing competitions and stylish fashion events.

Marvel at intricately crafted puppets as they come to life on a shimmering stage of a water-filled pool, depicting age-old tales of rural life, mythical creatures, and historical legends at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Water puppetry is a long-established and prestigious artwork in Vietnam, especially in the northern parts of the country. Experience beautiful performances accompanied by live traditional music, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Vietnamese folklore and storytelling.

Despite its small stature, New Providence island boasts the second-most Bahamian, as well as Caribbean specialty birds, after Abaco. Many of the sites are accessible only by vehicle, so consider utilizing a birding guide. While the Bahama Woodstar is the only endemic species present on the island, there are still a wealth of other colorful, exotic birds to see. Look to the Cuban Grassquit and the Caribbean Dove as examples.