Once a prayer hall, the Ribat Museum showcases a varied collection of traditional fabrics and objects such as coins, jewellery and pottery that will transport visitors back to a time when Islamic art was highly coveted the world over. It also displays an astrolabe (a device which measures the distance between stars) dating all the way back to the year 927, right at the time when pivotal discoveries in astronomy and mathematics were taking place. The museum is accessible from the south wing of the Ribat.

White sand and turquoise water are the key ingredients to Monastir's beaches. The most obvious choice would be to head straight to Karaia (Qaraiya) beach, which is one of the focal points of the city. However, it does get very busy in high season. For those willing to venture a little further afield for some R&R, the beaches of Sousse such as Bou Jaafar and Las Vegas Beach are particularly beautiful. The coast between Monastir and Sousse is a bit more utilitarian but could prove to be an interesting adventure as the locals will often come there to cast a fishing line on the beaches and for all horse lovers, there is riding and racing further inland at the Monastir Hippodrome and the Eki Club. Just beware that there is not a lot of shade on offer along the waterfront, so be sure to pack the SPFs.

Surrounded by coral gardens and with the water so clear in places you can see 40 metres down, the islands of Tonga offer premium diving and snorkelling experiences. Swim inside the Swallows Cave and dive into Mariners Cave from the island of Vava'u. From Ha'apai, view captivating marine life and colourful corals. Discover the "The Green Wall" of Ha'ano Islands — a long drop-off that plunges towards the great Tongan trench.