Inside the grounds of Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium is one of the largest inland aquariums in the world. Its seven exhibition halls cover everything from tropical fish and coral reefs to Chinese river life and endangered species, such as the Chinese sturgeon. There are also daily dolphin and sea lion shows. It’s a popular stop for visitors with kids, though if you’re mainly after wildlife, the zoo itself is the bigger draw.

George Dyer has become one of Branson’s premier entertainers, famous for his rich tenor voice and incredible versatility. His performances span a diverse range of genres, including timeless classics, Gospel, love songs, Broadway hits, opera, and even modern chart-toppers. With a blend of charisma and talent, Dyer consistently delivers shows that leave audiences in awe. Not just Dyer takes the stage, though—he features an array of equally talented artists throughout his performances.

Lake Taneycomo is accessed by way of Downtown Branson, south of Highway 76 in Hollister. The lake is clear and coldwater, restocked each year with around 750,000 rainbow and brown trout. There are full-service marinas, outfitters, resorts, campgrounds, and RV parks on Lake Taneycomo, making it a great vacation destination.

This spectacular urban Buddhist temple (the head temple of the Jogye Order) is a highlight on any Busan itinerary. A pleasant uphill hike through quiet nature will take you to temple grounds, with beautiful ornate pavilions, Buddhist statues and worshippers, which include both temporary visitors and monks who reside here permanently. Temple grounds tend to get busy during holidays and weekends. You can either make a few hours' trip or – for full cultural immersion – book an overnight stay that includes an introduction to monastic life, complete with joining a formal dinner and pre-dawn chanting. Stays must booked in advance via the website, and there are several different programmes available. If you opt for the full experience, do mind that the (silent!) wake-up hour is at 5am.