Located in southern Iraq, the cities of Karbala and Najaf are among the holiest sites for Shia Muslims worldwide. Karbala lies approximately 114 kilometres south of Baghdad, while Najaf is around 177 kilometres away, offering a day trip opportunity to the beating heart of Shia Islam. Karbala's golden-domed shrine marks the resting place of Imam Husayn, Prophet Muhammad's martyred grandson, while Najaf's magnificent mosque entombs Imam Ali, the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law. The 80-kilometre pilgrimage route between the cities sees millions of faithful muslims annually retracing Imam Husayn's final journey in a procession. Walking this path represents both spiritual renewal and solidarity with Husayn's stand against oppression.

This splendid Midcentury modern white marble mosque can accommodate 5,000 worshippers and is reportedly the largest single-domed mosque in the world. Bear in mind that visits may only be arranged by prior appointment and are restricted to male visitors.

Immerse yourself in beautifully manicured gardens, delightful royal abodes, and the serene calm of this classic Khmer palace. The throne, used for coronation and important ceremonies, sits in a finely decorated room. At its side stands a small delightful ornate maisonette offered by Napoleon III to King Norodom. Walk across to the Silver Pagoda and observe the golden Buddha, encrusted with 9,584 diamonds, the largest one weighing 25 carats. Please remember to dress a bit formally when visiting the Silver Pagoda—wear long trousers or a long skirt.

Ostuni, about 32 km (20 miles) west of Brindisi, where a labyrinth of whitewashed lanes and alleys surrounds a hilltop crowned by a medieval cathedral, is the most impressive of Apulia’s "white towns", with sweeping views across the surrounding farmlands to the east coast.