WRECK BAR, FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

We discovered the fabulously kitsch Wreck Bar after chatting to a local couple about tiki culture. It’s an original tiki bar, a popular culture craze that spread across America in the 1950s. It's exotically decorated with a nautical theme. The best thing about this place are the mermaid shows on Friday and Saturday nights. Grab a seat at the bar and watch the mermaids swim past the ship’s windows – just amazing! There’s a choice of family-friendly or late-night burlesque shows plus Aquamen on Thursday nights. Entry is free but you must spend at least $30 on food or drink.

MARQUEYSSAC'S CANDLELIGHT NIGHT, DORDOGNE VALLEY, FRANCE

As the sun begins to fade over two thousand candles are lit in the clifftop gardens of Marqueyssac. It’s an extraordinarily beautiful setting in its own right, but come twilight this magical event makes for the most romantic night. Live musicians serenade guests, hot air balloons often pass in the distance, and fairies and poets add to this enchanting evening. Considering this event only runs on a Thursday evening during summer, I feel very lucky that my short visit to the Dordogne Valley happened to match the date. Next time I'll plan my visit around this captivating candlelight night... because there will be a next time. It's that spectacular.