The Victoria Baths complex was designed by Manchester's first City Architect Henry Price, and opened in 1906. No expense was spared — the façade has multicoloured brickwork and terracotta decoration, the interior spaces are clad in glazed tiles and most of the windows have decorative stained glass. At the opening ceremony, the Lord Mayor described Victoria Baths as “a water palace of which every citizen of Manchester is proud”. For 86 years the baths provided both essential and leisure facilities. Private baths and a laundry were housed there alongside three swimming pools and Turkish Baths. In 1952 the first public Aeratone (Jacuzzi) was installed. Even though the baths were closed in 1993, the Grade II listed building is remarkably intact with most of the stained glass and original tiling remaining. Victoria Baths opens from March/April to October/November each year for weekly guided tours, public open days and special events.

In this Queensland rural town, the Historical museum is worth visiting, as is Proserpine Lake — or Peter Faust Dam, as it is better known. Ideal for water sports and fishing for the popular barramundi (Asian sea bass), you may also fancy a local eco-tour. To put the cherry on top, take one of the Whitsunday Crocodile Safaris up the Proserpine River.

Experience tropical beaches and relaxed days in the sun on the 74 islands along the coast. While some of them have holiday resorts you can just check in (e.g. Hamilton Island, Hayman Island), others are rather untouched and provide the ideal opportunity for a getaway. Just choose your match!

In the middle of Bangkok’s busy streets, Lumphini Park is where locals come to breathe and move. Covering over 140 acres, it has lakes, shady paths, and open lawns, perfect for walking, paddling, or just watching the city go by. Early mornings and evenings are busiest, with people practising tai chi, jogging, or joining group aerobics, while monitor lizards and birds add a touch of wildlife. It’s a good spot to see a slower, local side of Bangkok.