The Prague Botanical Garden in Troja is a haven for nature lovers. It features a vast collection of over 15,000 plant species, a serene Japanese Garden, and the Fata Morgana Greenhouse, which offers a journey through diverse tropical ecosystems. With areas like the historic St Clara Vineyards and the Peony Meadow, it's a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration throughout the year.

Phuket and beaches go hand in hand; whether it’s surfing, people-watching, or just sinking into quiet sand, there’s a stretch of coastline for every mood. Freedom Beach stays quiet for a reason: it’s tucked behind the jungle and can be reached either by longtail boat or by a steep trail for those willing to hike. The effort pays off with soft sand, clear water, and almost no facilities. Kata Beach has more going on, with surf lessons, cafés, and plenty of space, while Kata Noi, just around the corner, is calmer and more relaxed. Patong Beach is the opposite end of the spectrum: long, busy, and lined with bars, shops, and nightlife. Somewhere in between, Karon, Nai Harn, and Surin offer long stretches of sand without the chaos, still with enough restaurants and sunbeds if needed.

In the late 1800s, a passionate collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh amassed an amazing art collection. He purchased paintings by Peter Brueghel for a pittance, and managed to beat major museums purchasing stunning medieval sculptures. Mayer van den Bergh had an eye for the best quality in almost every genre. After his death, his mother finally managed to make her son’s dream come true: she built a museum, which showcased his collection. Today, the museum stands largely uncharged: it is still a museum of one man... and his mother. Highly recommended in the Great smaller museums of Europe.

At Grote Markt, the Brabo Fountain stands as a striking centrepiece amidst the historic architecture of Antwerp's central square. This celebrated monument is based on the legendary tale of Brabo, a local folk hero who defied the giant Antigoon, probably inspiring the city's name by throwing the giant's hand ("werpen" the "hant" in Middle Dutch) into the Scheldt River.