The Jardin de Balata, situated slightly inland from Fort-de-France, is a lush, 3-hectare expanse of green that contains a beguiling range of flora, comprising over 3,000 different species. The grounds are carefully landscaped, tailored, and looked after, and the view from the suspended rope bridges is enchanting.

No stay in Protaras-Paralimni would be complete without a visit to a traditional tavern. In the taverns of Protaras and the main town of Paralimni you can enjoy authentic, traditional Cypriot cooking. The local cuisine is rich and has a huge diversity of dishes. Most of the chefs use locally grown ingredients, a multitude of herbs and vegetables and recipes that have been passed on from generation to generation, always adding new touches. Meze, the national speciality, is in essence a culinary cross section, consisting of a variety of dishes. It starts with dips and salads followed by grills, side dishes and desserts. Koupepia are vine leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice, and Tava is a tasty stew of meat, herbs and onions. Enjoy your meals while sampling an excellent selection of local wines. So “Kopiaste”, relax and discover the flavours of Protaras.

Tobe was once a separate town to the south of Matsuyama. It's home to many potteries producing ceramics known collectively as Tobe-yaki. These tend to be white with navy blue decoration, although there are many varieties. You can purchase very serviceable tableware for everyday use at the potteries, and you can also try your hand at making your own ceramics. Tobe is also home to a number of interesting museums and a sake brewery.

Most visitors transfer to Zanzibar without even paying a visit to the metropolis on Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coast. However, Dar es Salaam — arguably the epicentre of Swahili culture — is well worth a visit. The multicultural and diverse city of 4 million is known for its beaches, seafood and music. Sights include the National Museum, the Village Museum, the Kivukoni Fish Market, and the city's very own marine reserve on Bongoyo island.