Just behind the ruins of Memphis, this 8-metre-long statue was carved from a single block of alabaster. It’s smaller than the Giza Sphinx but still impressive up close. No one’s entirely sure who it represents — maybe Hatshepsut or Amenhotep II — which just adds to the mystery. It’s a quick stop, but worth it if you’re already in the area.

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.

The National Marionette Theatre invites you to a puppet show — they are huge in Prague, and have a long history in the Czech Republic. Do not mistake it for a show only for children, as they also are aimed at adults.

Grand Fond reveals St Barts’ untamed Atlantic coast — a pebble-strewn beach where surfers challenge the crashing waves, and swimming is wisely avoided amid the rocky shallows. This wild counterpart to nearby Toiny offers raw drama: wind-sculpted vistas stretch to offshore islets, while the relentless surf soundtrack drowns out all traces of the island’s glamour. A 15-minute hike west along slippery coastal trails leads to the Piscines Naturelles Grand Fond, where volcanic rocks cradle seawater pools. Time it right (avoid midday sun and check tides) for safe dips between sea urchin colonies. The full 3-kilometre out-and-back trail offers panoramic ocean views. Just be sure to pack sturdy shoes and water for the scramble over jagged terrain. Shellfish hunters take note: collecting is prohibited, but the beach makes a spectacular picnic spot for those craving salt-sprayed solitude.