The only active volcano in Continental Europe, Mount Vesuvius is a popular destination for excursions, and offers a stunning panorama over the Naples bay, as well as a thrilling opportunity to look inside its crater. Infamous because it destroyed Pompeii 2,000 years ago, Vesuvius is now carefully controlled by geologists. An interesting choice can be visiting it in the morning — it's only 20 minutes away from Naples — and then heading to the Pompeii archaeological site in the afternoon.

Have a playful day in this indoor water park where the weather is always sunny. Sandcastle Waterworld is UK's largest indoor water park, and a true favourite among children with its over 18 rides, wave machines and different fun pools. Opening hours vary by date (consult the website for details).

Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary is a protected nature area in north Canberra with several trails for walking, running and cycling. The sanctuary's primary function is as a fieldwork site for researchers studying native ecology. It is Australia’s largest box-gum grassy-woodland and is the only area of its kind free from invasive foxes, rabbits, goats, deer and hares. With the help of partners and dedicated volunteers, the natural habitat is restored and protected.

It’s hard to imagine a more visually tantalising place to photograph than Christmas Island. All around you are sights, colours, textures and landscapes you’ll want to capture, so bring nature to life through your lens. From soft, pastel sunrises to glorious sunsets, Christmas Island is bathed in ever-changing tropical light. Vivid colour is everywhere, from the crabs’ rich reds to the rainforest’s deep greens, to turquoise waters. Catch the robber crabs on film, zoom in on gentle orchids and twisting vines, and train your lens skywards to capture the elegance and freedom of rare birds in flight. Underwater photographers have a kaleidoscope of colours and shapes to shoot. On land, the imposing, inspiring and detailed architecture of temples and other built forms keeps the shutters clicking. Videos capture the sights and sounds of millions of scurrying red crabs, or the hauntingly musical call of the island’s thrush, and the stirring call to prayer from the mosque. Best spots for best shots: - Martin Point, for staggeringly beautiful sunsets and seabirds; - Blowholes capture the energy of the water on a rugged coastline; - Dolly Beach has impressively large robber crabs plus turtle tracks; - Hughes Dale Waterfall is an iconic island place for your unique shot; - Blowholes Road lets you get creative with a special tree along the road; - Greta Beach hosts nesting turtles all year round; - Island temples boast rich colours fused with wisps of incense smoke; - Tai Jin House invites you to capture the detail of this building and its gardens; - Flying Fish Cove is a must for underwater photography.