If you’ve got a day to spare, spend it exploring Egypt’s second city by the sea. Alexandria feels like a world apart from Cairo — cooler, breezier, and full of Mediterranean character. Wander through Roman ruins, stroll the corniche, check out the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and stop by the Citadel of Qaitbay. It’s an easy change of pace, with plenty of history, sea views, and fresh air.

For a superb view over Penang and the Straits, take the funicular railway to the top of Bukit Bendera hill. The ride takes 30 minutes and the summit, 830 m (2,727 ft.) above sea level, is, with an average temperature of 3 degrees Celsius, cooler than the steamy coast.

This non-profit institution comprises many talented artists and sculptors who have been adding to the cache of contemporary art in the Hague since 1847. Whereas the studio started as a workshop where artists could come together and share their work with other artists, it now hosts around sixty exhibitions every year, which are open to members of the association and the public upon request. It is advisable to contact the studio for more information about memberships and guest access as some events are listed as members only whilst others are available for everyone to enjoy. The café/restaurant area is a good place to start as it is open to the public during the daytime.