The Hassan II Mosque commands a dramatic presence on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Its vast prayer hall and 210-metre minaret make it one of Casablanca’s most recognisable sights. Join a guided tour to see the detailed woodwork, marble floors, and the small glass section set over the water, and take your time walking the esplanade outside for long views along the coast.

Nestled along Shenzhen’s coastline, the Mangrove Nature Reserve is a peaceful retreat and a crucial stop for migratory birds travelling the East Asia-Australasia Flyway. The park’s serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for nature lovers, especially birdwatchers hoping to catch glimpses of over 200 species of migratory birds, including rare sightings like the black-faced spoonbill. But this place isn’t just for wildlife enthusiasts—locals love to visit on weekends for a different kind of escape. With its scenic sea views, the park is often filled with families and groups playing cards, enjoying picnics, or simply unwinding by the water.

When the tide recedes, mud flats are exposed allowing you to walk between islands. Trekking across the Wadden Sea is so evocative that it has even got its own verb, Wattwanderungen (mudflat hiking). However, in order to avoid the quicksands and the tides, you must go with a guide.