Though often overshadowed (especially for tourists) by its much larger and more famous neighbor Amsterdam about ten miles east, Haarlem’s history actually goes back further. And with about 150,000 people, it’s the capital of the Noord-Holland region. The Teylers Museum, with its unique collection of art and artifacts, is the oldest museum in the Netherlands. The fantastic Frans Hals Museum has many works by the artist and other Haarlem schoolers. Grote Markt, the main town square, is a must-see.

Mostly jutting northward from its largest city of Amsterdam and its capital of Haarlem, the Noord-Holland region has much more to offer beyond those two wonderful cities. At Muiden is the magnificent Muiderslot Castle, as if it stepped out of a fairy tale. Showing more wear but no less interesting is Brederode Castle at Santpoort. At Zaanstad is Zaanse Schans, one of Holland’s top tourist destinations and a family-friendly open air museum of windmills, traditional buildings, crafts and shops.

Amsterdam is truly a biker’s city, although pedaling along the labyrinthine streets can get a little chaotic. Stick to walking and you won’t be disappointed. The gentle canals make a perfect backdrop for exploring the Jordaan and Rembrandtplein square. Pop into the Red Light District if you must—if only so you can say you’ve been there. The Anne Frank House is one of the most moving experiences a traveller can have, and the Van Gogh Museum boasts a sensational collection of works.

This former unofficial capital of France sits just 10 miles from Paris and is easily reachable by train. Even though the Chateau de Versailles has been known as the epitome of indulgent luxury for centuries, seeing it in person is a jaw-dropping experience. The chateau's magnificent gardens are free, but it's worth shelling out for a day ticket to see the interior—although it does make going back to even a fancy hotel seem rather humdrum.

Home to the oldest university in Germany, Heidelberg was hit hard during 17th-century wars and rebuilt in the 18th century with baroque buildings. For a pleasant walk, stroll through the historic city centre's Gothic streets. Be sure to take in Heidelberg Castle, the symbolic heart of the city; Alte Brucke, a beautiful 18th-century bridge; and the Student Jail. Built as long ago as the 16th century, it was used to keep mischievous students off the streets for three days to a month at a time. And they say Penn State is the number-one party school!

Bristol is a quirky British city with beautiful hilly vistas and plenty of historic sights to explore. Anyone interested in ships will have a blast aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first great oceanliner, and the Matthew, a replica of the ship upon which John Cabot sailed to America in the 15th century. The graceful Clifton Suspension Bridge is another must-see.

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.

Not the sporting type? You’ll still enjoy a trip to Stowe—just plan on hitting the spa instead of the slopes or the golf course. The area’s big ski resorts offer huge spas with pretty much any treatment you can think of—try all of them and pick your favourite!

Don’t be fooled by Bermuda’s small size; this 21-square-mile Atlantic island is big on history, personality and charm, from pink-sand beaches to historic forts. It’s known for aquatic adventures like shipwreck scuba diving, cliff jumping and deep-sea fishing. On land you’ll find an eclectic island culture of vibrant neighbourhoods, brightly coloured shorts and delicious fish chowder.

It seems like most folks have a grandmother, great-uncle or some other distant relative that used to live in Brooklyn, or perhaps a friend that lives there now. In the early 1900s, it was a mecca for immigrants arriving via Ellis Island. A hundred years later, young professionals and artists left pricey Manhattan digs for Brooklyn's cheaper and more expansive space. Neighbourhoods like Brooklyn Heights and Park Slope, which had fallen into disrepair over the years, were restored and reborn as funky enclaves. Walk or bike over the historic Brooklyn Bridge (or ride the subway) to Brooklyn Heights for a stroll along the Promenade and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Meander through Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens for a taste of nature in the urban wilds. Catch a performance at the world-famous Brooklyn Academy of Music. From the delicious Italian restaurants of Bensonhurst to the Irish bars that line the avenues of Bay Ridge, from the hotdogs and rollercoasters of Coney Island to the bagels and handball courts of Greenpoint, Brooklyn is a state of mind as well as a dynamic community. Discover why, no matter where people move on to, they remain Brooklynites at heart.

Isn’t it romantic? The Caribbean island of St. Croix is practically the backdrop of a Hollywood love story. White sand beaches and lush rainforests set the scene for tropical bliss. Take in the historic small town charm of Christiansted and Frederiksted, sip your way through a spirited tour of the Cruzan Rum Distillery or explore the ruins of a sugar plantation. And the diving…oh, the diving. Think shipwrecks, think vibrant ocean life, think endless underwater possibilities.