Home to palm-lined beaches, tranquil coral reefs, and several top-tier hotels, it’s no wonder why Bavaro is one of the Dominican Republic’s most popular destinations. This resort hub combines convenience and Caribbean culture with an impressive range of activities across its expansive coastline.

Just 10 miles east of La Romana lies the fishing town of Bayahibe. Here, divers will find spectacular coral formations and three shipwrecks: the Atlantic Princess, St George and Coco. In the national park, nature enthusiasts will find lagoons and wildlife, including a variety of birds. There is much to do, but the inviting, soft white-sand beaches are perfect for travelers seeking relaxation.

The ideal destination for families, honeymooners, divers and golfers alike, La Romana is home to the famous Casa de Campo resort, internationally renowned golf courses, a world-class marina and Altos de Chavón, a beautiful replica of a 16th-century artisan village. Nearby, the Bayahibe area offers picturesque beaches, chic accommodations, desirable attractions and splendid opportunities for ecotourism. Visitors can enjoy stunning Saona Island, Cotubanamá National Park and more.

The farther you go from Grand Cayman's busy docks, the more peace and quiet you'll find. At Stingray City (actually a sandbar), stingrays swim alongside you in the tranquil waters. Closer to town, travellers report finding some of the best massage and spa services anywhere in the Caribbean.

The Atlantic coast of New Jersey, with its beaches and boardwalks, stretches from Sandy Hook in the north to Cape May in the south. Fresh ocean breezes fan 127 miles of sandy beaches. Drive between cities or catch a NJ Transit bus or Atlantic City jitney bus. Atlantic City packs people in to nightlife venues and casinos. Wildwood's boardwalk is well-trod. Asbury Park is once again popular, particularly with gays and lesbians. Cape May's restaurants and Victorian inns lure tourists to the historic town.

For a weekend of fun and relaxation, you don't have far to go. North Dakota's largest city gained a certain measure of modern fame with its 1996 film namesake. But Fargo is more than a city of friendly folks and flat accents. Local museums will please art lovers, children and baseball enthusiasts. After a family visit to the Red River Zoo, parents can unwind at local area lounges, many of which offer casino gaming. In Fargo's sister city of Moorhead, Minnesota, The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Centre has replicas of a Viking ship and a Norwegian Stave church. Back in Fargo, Bonanzaville USA gives modern visitors a taste of pioneer life.

Centrally located near all of Southern California’s major cities, Temecula Valley is the region’s wine country — with 40+ wineries offering everything from tours and events to restaurants and early-morning hot air balloon flights featuring panoramic views. Visitors also enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational activities; the largest casino in the state at Pechanga Resort Casino; and a historic Old Town featuring wooden boardwalks, artisanal shops and restaurants, and a bustling nightlife.

Long the home of Portugal’s monarchs, Sintra is a magnificent town of marvelous historic mansions, all set against the backdrop of lush hills. Sintra’s many castles include the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (a main abode of Portuguese royalty until the early 20th century), the hilltop and storybook Palácio da Pena, Quinta de Regaleira (incorporating several architectural styles and with gorgeous surrounding gardens), the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle), and the Palácio de Monserrate.

Once a shipbuilding city, Newcastle's flashier claim to fame is nightlife. Throw in a heap of premium restaurants serving foods from all over the world and it's no wonder young partiers choose to blow their hard-earned (or not-so-hard-earned) cash in Newcastle. While these amenities are certainly a draw for the hipsters and culture-seekers, it's the locals that make Newcastle a truly special place to visit. "Geordies," as they are often called, embody the pride, industriousness and resilient spirit of their city.

Getting sick on holiday is a major drag, but if you have to be under the weather, Montpellier is an ideal place to do it. People have studied medicine here for centuries—the Moors established medical schools in the 9th century, and the Université Montpellier’s school of medicine was founded in 1220. Once the local docs give you a clean bill of health, explore the cathedral, mansions and opera house.

Wandering the narrow caruggi alleyways of Genoa is a bit like solving a medieval labyrinth. In the heart of the Italian port city lies Piazza de Ferrari, a main square with a beautiful fountain and a perimeter lined with historic buildings, including the Palace of the Doges the Teatro Carlo Felice, which was destroyed during WWII and subsequently rebuilt. The seaside neighborhood of Boccadasse is vision of pink and yellow buildings that brighten up this lovely fishing village.