Sidi Bou Saïd stands out as one of the highlights of a trip to Tunis. Reach this hilltop village by taxi or suburban train, where cobbled lanes wind between Santorini-esque white houses, their doors and shutters painted vivid blue. The sea views dazzle at every turn. Best enjoyed with mint tea at Café des Nattes or Kahoua El Alia as the sun dips low.

Al Dar Island is often regarded as home to some of Bahrain’s finest beaches. By day it is quiet, calm, and family-friendly, while by night it transforms into a lively spot with DJ parties. Access is arranged through the reservation office, where you take a bus followed by a boat transfer to reach the island. Although small, it has its own restaurant and a shop selling food, drinks, and gifts. Note that bringing your own food is not permitted.

Tunis reveals its scholarly heritage through a collection of beautifully preserved madrasas, each bearing witness to centuries of intellectual pursuit. Over 20 madrasas are spread over the Medina of Tunis, some of them seven centuries old. The role these madrasas played has evolved over time. The Madrasa Slimania, founded by 18th-century ruler Ali Pasha, stands out with its ornate prayer hall and elevated entrance porch. Where student cells once housed scholars, medical professionals now work beneath the same vaulted ceilings. Nearby, the Madrasa El Bachia has transitioned from Quranic school to artisan workshops, its courtyard fountain silent but its creative spirit alive. The Madrasa Palmier (or Madrasa Ennakhla) maintains its original purpose as a centre for Quranic studies, its namesake palm still shading the courtyard behind formidable studded doors. Meanwhile, El Khaldounia represents a bridge between tradition and modernity. Established in 1896 near Souk Al Attarine, this progressive institution now serves as a bilingual library, honouring Ibn Khaldoun’s legacy of critical thought.

This large public park, Tirana's "green lung", offers a peaceful escape from the city. You can relax on the grassy areas by the artificial lake, enjoy a jog along the scenic paths, or explore the beautiful flora at the Botanical Gardens of Tirana, where various plant species and flowers are showcased. It's an ideal spot to unwind and soak in nature within easy reach of the urban environment.