St Barts Airport (SBH) thrills aviation enthusiasts with its dramatic 650-metre runway with one of the world's most challenging approaches. Landing aircraft must dive steeply right after clearing the hillside, then immediately pull up just a few seconds before touching down. The distance between the edge of the hill and the plane can be less than two meters! Prime viewing spots include St Jean Beach (where planes appear to skim sunbathers), the western runway perimeter, and the airport terminal cafeteria with its panoramic windows. For a grand perspective, the hills east of St Jean Bay frame the runway against turquoise waters. Note: never linger directly beneath flight paths — these low-flying aircraft leave no margin for error.

Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the real heart of the city is, and always will be, the creek. The saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled, and its waters were vital for what used to be Dubai's main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. The area is home to the Dubai Museum and Shindagha Museum, the waterside heritage retail area Al Seef, as well as the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks. While at the Creek, a ride across the water on a traditional abra is a must.

This horse rescue farm, located only a short drive away from Blackpool city, is a great choice for a family day out. At the farm, visitors will get the chance to stroke and interact with the adorable residents - there are about 65 of them at any given time. The stables stay open even in bad weather.

Colombier Beach is St Barts’ crowning escape — a crescent of white sand accessible only by boat or two scenic hiking trails, ensuring its pristine seclusion. The Flamands Trail (20-30 minutes) starts past Petite Anse, winding along cactus-dotted cliffs with glimpses of rocky shores. For panoramic vistas, take the Colombier Lookout Trail (30-45 minutes) from the viewpoint parking lot, descending past iguanas sunning on volcanic boulders to reach the shore. Protected by a hilly peninsula, the bay’s calm waters reveal sea turtles and coral. Don’t forget to pack your snorkel! History lingers at the western edge, where hurricane-topped ruins of Laurence Rockefeller’s 1950s villa stand guard. No facilities mean packing sun shelter and water; early mornings reward hikers with empty sands and gentler heat.