1. Fjärilshuset - Stockholm, Sweden
Pining for a tropical rainforest in Stockholm? Make for the Fjärilshuset in Haga Park. Modest from without, it’s a moist, steamy wonderland of Mediterranean and jungle plants, populated by an assortment of reptiles, fish, tropical birds and hundreds of brightly-coloured butterflies. Best leave your sweater at the door.
2. Campbell Apartment – New York, U.S.A.
Next time you’re at Grand Central Station, pay a visit to the lovely Campbell Apartment. Originally the office of one of New York’s legendary tycoons, financier John W. Campbell (whose massive safe sits in the equally enormous fire place) this gorgeous period 1920s space is now a sophisticated cocktail bar. Dress to impress.
3. Surgeon’s Hall Museum – Edinburgh, Scotland
Once one of the world’s leading medical schools, Edinburgh was known for its cutting-edge investigations into anatomy, some of which was carried out on bodies stolen from local cemeteries. A treasure trove of skeletons, dental monstrosities, anatomical models and other oddities, like the death mask and book bound in the skin of infamous grave-robber William Burke.
4. Yerebatan Sarayi – Istanbul, Turkey
Pack a fishing rod next time you visit Istanbul. But instead of the Bosphorus, make your way underground to the Basilica Cistern, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, and angle for the fish that swim in its waters. Make sure not to miss the Medusa head carvings supporting 2 of the cistern’s 366 marble pillars.
5. The Hong Kong Trail – Hong Kong
Like to hike but don’t have the time to hit the Himalayas? Next time you’re in Hong Kong, don’t pack your boots. The Island’s 50km long distance trail takes you from Victoria Peak to Big Wave Bay - surfer central – and permits the occasional panoramic peak of the city through its lush rainforest canopy.
