Saratoga Springs is one of those special escapes where everything is just, well, pretty close to perfect. The city's lovely tree-lined streets and grand old Victorian homes, porch swings swaying and gardens brimming with colourful flora, bring to mind a gentler era. World-class horse racing, renowned performing arts and natural-springs spas, plus 13 golf courses, 10 museums, a historic battlefield, fabulous boutiques, antiques and restaurants mean there is something for everyone. Relax at the Lincoln Mineral Baths, window shop in town and then it's off to the races. Walk everywhere, it's that kind of place. One of the oldest tourist destinations in the United States, Saratoga offers ample accommodation choices in elegant hotels, historic bed and breakfasts or comfortable inns. The only drawback is you may never want to leave.

The Welsh capital may have begun its life as a Roman fort, but it's since become a bustling city. Where the fort once stood, Cardiff Castle has held court since the 11th century. It remains a central presence in the city, now full of lively art and music venues, hip boutiques, fun bars and modern hotels. Even with so many new and exciting things to see, the National History Museum is still the most visited attraction in Wales. Don't be the only visitor who plays hooky!

So-called because of the honey-coloured stone used to build its villages, the Cotswolds offers visitors the quintessential English experience. The area spans five counties and boasts some of England’s most impressive country houses, castles, and landscapes. Plus, plentiful pubs make it easy to experience authentic English hospitality.

After a stint as the UK City of Culture in 2017, the port city of Kingston-upon-Hull has stepped into the limelight as one of the cultural hubs of the north, crammed with museums, architectural landmarks, and maritime attractions.

This bustling transport hub, site of the terminal for ferries to and from Norway, is a city of 25,000. Primarily a hectic ferry port and shopping pit stop, it's popular with Swedes and Norwegians, who visit to stock up on appealingly priced meat and alcohol. If you miss your ferry or tire of edible and potable on-shelf options, visit Bangsbo Museum, an open-air attraction full of 18th-century buildings, 14th-century ruins, antique farm equipment and handicrafts created from hair and WWII relics.