There are multiple local companies offering scooter tours of the Vietnam capital. These tours range greatly in thematic focus (street food to historic landmarks) and duration, and depend on the individual provider, but details can often be agreed upon on an individual basis. On these tours, an individual driver is normally assigned to each visitor, who then hops on the back of the scooter as a passenger. Helmets should normally be provided. One motorbike tour of Ho Chi Minh personally tested out by the editor is Non-profit Student Tour, an incredible initiative that works surprisingly well. The coordinator links up tourists with available local student volunteers, allowing the students to practice their English and bringing overseas visitors into contact with locals. Each traveller is assigned an individual driver (this even works with larger groups). Drop them a WhatsApp message to arrange the date and time.

Qasr Al Watan is Abu Dhabi’s Presidential Palace, open to the public and worth a visit for its grand interiors and insight into the UAE’s political and cultural heritage. The building blends traditional Arabian craftsmanship with monumental scale, featuring vast halls, towering domes, and a 350,000-crystal chandelier. Exhibits cover everything from the country’s governing institutions to ancient manuscripts, and an evening light show on the palace façade wraps up the visit.

Only 20 minutes by bus, and you will find yourself in the midst of unspoilt greenery without even setting foot out of the capital. Start your trip by taking the bus to the Normafa parks, and try the best strudel in the city with scenic views over the Buda hills. From here stretches a short hiking trail all the way up to the lookout tower with cafés, playgrounds, and a funicular. From the top of the lookout tower, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views that at clear times even encompass the peak of the High Tatras.