Cheong Fatt Tze, the Blue Mansion, was one of the wealthiest merchants of the 19th century, and Penang Straits Settlement imported artisans from China to build this opulent 38-room mansion. With its five courtyards, carved woodwork, Gothic louvered windows and cast iron, the mansion is a fascinating fusion of East and West culture. The building was restored at a cost of 7.6 million ringgit, and it is crammed with sculptures, antique furniture and tapestries, while now being a unique boutique hotel. However, it is also open for non-residents during guided tours, so book one ahead.

The historic cloth factory of Księży Młyn was once an entire self-contained residential district, encompassing worker housing, a school and hospital. Much of it was destroyed during WWII, but parts of the former glory still remain intact, including the Herbst Palace where the industrialist families who one ran Księży Młyn used to reside.

This fortress was ordered to be constructed by the legendary Richard Lionheart. It boasts spectacular views over the Seine River and will keep both adults and kids entertained while exploring the area. The château still stands 8 centuries after its inauguration, and is a major attraction despite the grim stories of its involuntary residents.

Discover some of New Zealand’s rarest native wildlife just ten minutes from downtown Wellington, in a unique sanctuary where native bush is being restored and endangered species are breeding once again. Visitors can roam freely inside the sanctuary or take advantage of guided day or nighttime tours.