For a splendid day out that the entire family is bound to enjoy, head to Rotterdam’s famous zoo: Diergaarde Blijdorp. The Zoo is situated in the district of Blijdorp, in Rotterdam Noord. Stroll across the African Savannah and stand face-to-face with the giraffes. Walk on the seabed in the indoor Oceanium and meet stingrays and sharks. Discover the Amazon in the largest butterfly paradise of Europe: Amazonica. Experience tropical temperatures, fragrant flowers, hundreds of colourful South American butterflies and greedy piranhas.

The narrow alleyways of the Jewish quarter contain homes of many ancient Hebrew families. Here, while tourists take pictures, Jewish teenagers head to their Yeshivas, schools for Torah studies. Near the Cardo you will find the Hurva Synagogue: recently restored, it offers beautiful views over the roofs of the quarter. Built by Ashkenazi Jews in the 16th century, the synagogue has been destroyed and banned several times; for Jewish people it's a symbol of their tormented history.

Of course, you could get all the best Australian wines without leaving Brisbane's city limits, but what could be better than meeting the people whose hands made the wine and taking in the atmosphere of a lush winery. Book a tour or get into a car with a designated driver, and don't forget to pack a picnic basket. We suggest heading south to discover the Scenic Rim’s wine, beer and spirit makers.

In Haugesund you can come close to the essence of Norway with the beautiful fjords, rivers and lakes. A variety of trails give a splendid view of the landscape that can be explored all year around.