Situated on a small hill in the southern part of the city, Malabar Hill represents one of the highest vantage points in central Mumbai. Surrounded by upmarket residential areas, it is home to the ruins of the world heritage Walkeshwar Temple, with almost a thousand years, is one of the most ancient temples in town. The popular Baganga Festival of Music is usually held here in January.

Inaugurated in 2009 to honour Buddha, this golden pagoda has become a major attraction in Mumbai. Loved for its golden decor and massive stone dome, the Global Vipassana Pagoda is surrounded by nature, and the Dhamma Pattana meditation centre offers free 10-day meditation courses.

Just outside Piazza Duomo lies one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe. The cemetery presents an extraordinary historical artistic repertoire: from the parallelepiped burial mounds of Hebrew tradition dating from the 17th to 18th centuries to the Liberty styles dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries.

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.