In the days of the tsars, the people who enjoyed themselves in the Riviera’s casinos until late on Saturday night, were not exactly short of money. They went here, to church though, on Sundays. After the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe, things are much as they were in the old days, but thick wads of dollars now rain down on the Riviera — and the beautifully restored cathedral. Strict dress code applies.

Maitland is a thriving business centre surrounded by charming countryside. A rich cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture dating back to the early years of colonial Australia. Visit the Maitland Regional Art Gallery or National Trust Property Grossmann House for a taste of Maitland’s cultural offerings.

Cessnock developed as a private village on the road that is now known as The Convict Trail, the original Sydney – Hunter Valley road hand-built by 3,000 convicts. Originally a service centre for travellers, Cessnock became a major mining centre at the turn of the century, however wine and tourism have since become the major local industries.

The most well-known branch of the Soumaya Museum on Plaza Carso houses the eclectic $700 million private art collection of one of the world’s wealthiest men. The glistening facade of the building with its swooping lines is a must for your Instagram feed. Inside, a spiralling ramp will lead you though several floors filled with works of European and Mexican masters. The museum's collection spans 30 centuries of art including sculptures from Pre-Hispanic Mesoamerica, Mexican art, works by European old masters and masters of modern western art such as Auguste Rodin, Salvador Dalí, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo and Tintoretto. It is called one of the most complete collections of its kind.