This original 15th century Gothic mansion is an outstanding example of bourgeois grandeur in the Old Town, in later years richly decorated with stuccos. The house is named for Sebastian Helbling, who operated a small Café in there in 1833. The historic structure was completely refurbished in the years 1979 and 1980.

Crossing the streets in front of the Shibuya Station is an experience on its own. Approximately 3,000 people cross the road at a time. Many street artists gather in this area to show their performances. You can also find the statue of the famous and loyal dog Hachikō between the station and the intersection. The crossing is most electrifying after dark, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, when neon signs and enormous screens bathe the crowds in a kinetic glow. For the best perspective, head to Mag’s Park, the rooftop observatory atop the Shibuya 109-2 department store, which offers a panoramic view of the human tide below.

If you really want to dive into the Japanese culture, you can't miss out on getting to know local cuisine and culinary traditions that go back centuries. Classes focusing on making sushi are the most popular ones, but you should consider learning to make a proper bowl of umami-rich ramen, crunchy gyozas, or a variety of healthy side dishes.

Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sank off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.