Nestled between the bustling Bull Ring Shopping Centre and the vibrant markets, St Martin's stands as a serene haven amidst the commercial buzz. As the oldest of Birmingham's churches, it has held the heart of the markets area for centuries. Step inside, and you'll discover a breathtaking interior, adorned with the city's oldest monument—a magnificent 1325 effigy of Sir William de Bermingham, the Lord of the Manor.

Oudayas Kasbah near Rabat's nedina has kept its old cannons placed on a bastion. Its massive gate is entirely carved, while its blue and white walls give it a Mediterranean atmosphere. Cobbled streets lead to the El Atiqa Mosque, the oldest in the city, and on to the old semaphore platform. The view from here, or the terrace of the neighbouring Café Maure, is splendid: Rabat, nearby Salé and Bouregreg river meeting the ocean. The Oudayas Palace, further on up, which now houses the National Museum, has conserved its markedly simple and balanced original decor. The Andalusian Gardens below are a heaven of peace full of fruit trees, rose-laurels and cascades of bougainvilleas.

Manhattan is an island packed with some of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Spend time in Central Park, see a Broadway show, and experience the bright rush of Times Square. Each neighborhood here has its own rhythm, from the historic streets of Harlem to the cobblestones of SoHo and the towering skyline of Midtown. The borough is also home to major art institutions: the Guggenheim, with its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright design and collection of modern masterpieces, and the New Museum on the Lower East Side, known for its focus on contemporary art. Down by the harbor, the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration tells the stories of those who came to America seeking new lives, right next to the Statue of Liberty, still one of the city’s most powerful symbols.

Brooklyn blends history with constant reinvention. Williamsburg draws crowds with its mix of independent shops, vintage finds, and late-night spots, while the borough’s landmarks never lose their pull. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge for skyline views, head to Coney Island for a classic boardwalk experience and a Nathan’s Famous hot dog, and spend time at the Brooklyn Museum, home to one of the country’s most impressive art collections. Next door, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers a calm break from city life. Down by the waterfront, DUMBO’s cobblestone streets and bridge views make it a favorite for photos and coffee breaks, while nearby Prospect Park offers a quieter, more local version of Central Park. And for a different type of culture, check out the 150-year-old Brooklyn Academy of Music and its calendar full of avant-garde plays, dances, music, literary events, and lectures.