U.S. citizens still need to jump through a few hoops to visit Cuba, but as visitors from around the world know, this island offers some amazing opportunities for cultural exchange. Havana is a mix of old-world architecture and of-the-moment culture. Head out of the capital city to the small town of Trinidad to see more Spanish colonial architecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fantastic home base for a visit to the Valley of the Sugar Mills, a pocket of land that formerly served as the centre of Cuba’s sugar industry.

With 26 UNESCO-declared world heritage sites, charming colonial towns and dozens of thrilling cities, there's plenty to explore in this country of 109 million. Outside the cities, stunning Pacific beaches, stark deserts, mangrove swamps and swimming holes provide all you need for a relaxing, romantic or adventurous vacation. Captivating, cosmopolitan and chaotic Mexico City and the 32 states offer an incredible abundance of experiences, from laid-back and leisurely to upbeat to adrenalin-charging.

There are no two identical Bahamas holidays. With options as diverse as its 700 islands, the Bahamas may seem schizophrenic: is it a family destination, a place for lovers to sneak away, a gambling mecca, a cruise-afficianado’s chief port of call or a shopper’s world market? The answer is, yes. It’s that, too.

Those looking for stunning but ecologically conscious holidays need look no further. The misty rain and cloud forest teems with toucans. Encounters with rare wildlife, from quetzals to leatherback turtles, await. Activities such as surfing and whitewater rafting are available on gorgeous beaches and splendid rivers. Arenal Volcano puts on mighty shows almost daily, and nearby hot springs soothe stresses away. San Jose, the capital and largest city, is vibrant and packed with Victorian mansions.

The Caribbean, with its tropical climate and diversity of islands, is a prominent destination for tourists. Mention the Caribbean and its tropical climate, crisp clear blue waters, and pristine sandy beaches seem to be the biggest draw. Some of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean are the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Aruba.

With more than seventy-five per cent of its terrain covered by forests, Vermont is a state with wonderful scenery, in particular its autumn foliage. Its State parks with their mountains and forests offer endless opportunities for cycling, hiking, fishing, and in winter, skiing and snowboarding. If you are not the sporty type, Vermont has interesting historic sites as well.

Romance and adventure are in the air on this lush West Indian island in the Caribbean, depending on your coast. To the west, you'll find calm waters and good swimming. To the east, there are massive, competition-caliber waves. Wherever you stay, expect turquoise waters, fine soft sand beaches, catamaran cruises and delicious island fare.

Stretching from the fishing village of Puerto Morelos to the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka'an, the Mayan Riviera offers an unforgettable Caribbean coastline experience. Divers and snorkelers will be dazzled by the wrecks of Xcaret and the Puerto Morelos reef. Use a zip line to descend into the sacred subterranean caverns of LabnaHa Eco Park, where you can snorkel an underground river under a canopy of stalactites. The nearby Tulum Monkey Sanctuary will put you in a playful mood.