Many of the archipelago's islands are populated by giant Aldabra tortoises, and bird species number 250, 12 of those being unique to the islands. Mahe Island's Port Launay Marine National Park is the place to head for whale shark sightings, and Praslin Island is home to the country's national bird - the Seychelles black parrot. Cousine Island is where visitors are encouraged to take part in wildlife conservation projects (and spot free-roaming giant tortoises and rare bird species along the way). A mere 3km away from there is Fregate Island, known especially for its chelonian inhabitants.

The tower, a long-standing symbol of Vilnius, is located on the 48-metre-high hill. It is named after the city’s founder, Gediminas, the Grand Duke of Lithuania. This is the only remaining part of the Upper Castle, which stood here from the 10th until the late 14th century. There is an observation deck on the top of the tower, a great place to appreciate a magnificent panorama. Gediminas Tower can be reached by foot or a funicular.

As a gift to foster political bonds, Kew Gardens London sent one of four highly sought-after Japanese Camellia sprouts (brought to London by a Swedish botanist after a Japan excursion) to Pillnitz, Germany. But, the sprout had a hard time adjusting to the cold central European winters. Today, it is housed in a glass house built on railways that can be moved back and forth to shade the sensitive plant as needed.