A gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blue Ridge is home to beautiful lakes and spectacular mountains. Part of the Appalachians, the Blue Ridge range was aptly named for the bluish color that is most obvious when viewed from a distance. Great for hiking, relaxing or just enjoying the serenity, the mountains are a treat for anyone interested in a peaceful getaway.

Rock Hill, the largest city in South Carolina's York County, is a charming college town, with the campus of Winthrop University making up one of its five historic districts. The surrounding area of York County is home to the Carowinds amusement park, an entertainment destination so large that it spans two states. The York County Library hosts the annual Patchwork Tales Storytelling Festival, featuring musicians, storytellers, and artists from all over the world.

While resorts continue to spring up, "Zihua" remains determined to maintain its small-town flavour. The brick-paved "fisherman's walk," a nod to the region's seafaring roots, stretches along the town centre. Because the nightlife is mostly informal, Zihua is particularly appealing to couples and those seeking an escape from coastal party towns.

Kilkenny is over 400 years old, but it sure doesn’t show its age. Yes, it's an awe-inspiring throng of medieval cathedrals, castles, abbeys and other massive stone buildings, but Kilkenny loves to party. An endless stream of arts festivals celebrating theater, comedy, bluegrass and dance is constantly pumping the city with new life, toe-tapping energy and international flavor.

Take the train from Brussels and in less than an hour you'll arrive in Namur, the capital of Wallonia overflowing with charm and intimate little streets made for walking, shopping and people watching. Around every corner are quaint tea rooms, antique storefronts, jewelry stores, and boutique shop, but don’t let the size fool you, Namur is also a fashion city with classic and trendy deals. Namur must-sees include Namur Citadel, Felicien Rops Museum, Museum of Ancient Namur Arts, Chateau d'Annevoie, and the Museum of Groesbeeck de Croix.