At the junction of Nezavisimosti and Zakharava is this huge square, with a giant victory obelisk emerging from the centre. The monument has an eternal flame at its feet, which has been burning since 1954, and is accessible from an underground passageway.

It is an engineering marvel, the world's steepest steam-operated railway. This is Tasmania's West Coast Wilderness Railway, and it is 28 tonnes of special. Today, passengers are moved by the same locomotives that began the run from Queenstown back in 1896. They take a comfortable 16-kilometre run through the wildlands, uphill through spectacular landscapes and down to a place called Dubbill Barrill, with stops for a little gold panning and sightseeing. These locos were originally built to move copper ore for the Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company, delivering the mine's deep riches out of a massive, landlocked deposit at Queenstown to the port of Strahan, and from there, to the world. And every passenger is greeted by one of the line's original workhorses, a 28-tonne steam locomotive that's ready to roll — and guaranteed to raise a smile.

Few places on Earth remain that feel so remote, so raw, so removed from the ordinary. This cliff top walk atop Australia's highest sea cliffs in the Tasman National Park on the Three Capes Track will refresh your senses. Three Capes is a self-guided walk with three cabin sites providing maximum comfort with minimal impact on the environment. Pellet heaters also keep walkers comfortable year-round.

The Aachen Town Hall, a distinctive example Gothic architecture, is a historic symbol of the city's rich past. Originally built in the 14th century on the ruins of Charlemagne's palace, this iconic building has witnessed numerous coronations and remains a testament to Aachen's medieval grandeur. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its regal history.