Gentle green mountains frame white-sand beaches and clear water in Arraial do Cabo, whose fishing village roots help set the sleepy pace of life. Find locals dining on fresh-caught seafood by the beach, or strolling winding streets that all seem to lead to the shore.

Puebla lives in the shadow of the active Popocatepetl volcano, which provides a spectacular backdrop to one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (magic towns). Characterized by its colorful, Talavera-tiled buildings and hailed as the birthplace of mole poblano, Puebla is Mexico at its best.

Florida's Southwest Gulf Coast contains a constellation of enticing coastal gems. Stunning beaches, including Fort Myers Beach, Tigertail Beach and Pensacola Beach, fringe the Gulf, down the I-75 from Tampa to Naples. Sanibel Island's shells attracts thousands. Cape Coral's waters are paradise for fly-fishing. Golfers adore spectacular courses in Marco Island and Naples. Glorious sunny days and deliciously warm turquoise waters beckon in this often overlooked corner of the Sunshine State.