Little Havana is Miami’s beating heart of Cuban-American culture, where vibrant murals, the aroma of Cuban coffee, and the rhythms of salsa music fill the air. This iconic neighborhood offers a sensory overload—colorful streets, authentic eateries, cigar shops, and even free-roaming roosters bring its character to life. On the last Friday of every month, the neighborhood turns up the energy for Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), a street party with live music, dancing, food, and art. For an even bigger celebration, don’t miss the legendary Calle Ocho Music Festival in March, one of the largest Latino festivals in the U.S.

The Daciensi Temple complex, anchored by the striking Daciensi Tower, stands as one of Xi’an’s most treasured landmarks. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty by Emperor Gaozong in memory of his mother, this historic site carries the weight of centuries. Legend has it that after the famed monk Xuanzang's epic journey to India to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures, he returned here to translate them, setting up the temple as one of the earliest centres of Buddhist learning in China. Within the temple grounds, the iconic Dayan Pagoda (also known as the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda) draws most of the attention. Built in the 7th century, it’s an enduring symbol of China’s first female ruler, Empress Wu Zetian, and her devotion to Buddhist teachings. Architecturally, the pagoda is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty design, and climbing its steep, stone steps rewards you with sweeping views of Xi’an below.

Al-Shaheed Martyrs Memorial is one of Baghdad’s most recognisable landmarks, commemorating the courage and sacrifice of Iraqis who fought in various wars. Designed by renowned Iraqi architect Ismail Fatah Al Turk, the monument was built between 1981 and 1983. Located about 4.5 kilometres north of Tahrir Square, near the Tigris River, the site forms part of a larger complex that includes well-maintained green spaces, trees, and an indoor park. Although the memorial is currently closed for renovations, as is the case with several historical sites in Iraq, you can always negotiate with the on-site guards for a closer look past the gate.