The first time you go to New York, go ahead and be a sight-seer—everyone should visit the Statue of Liberty, the Met, Times Square, etc. But on a return trip, pick a neighbourhood and go deep. You’ll find hole-in-the-wall bars, great delis, quirky shops… exploring the non-touristy side of New York is an incredibly rewarding experience for a traveller.

Westchester County, a collection of towns that serve as a popular suburb for the bordering New York City, is also the gateway to the Hudson River Valley, an area that promises a plethora of outdoor activities, from sailing to bird-watching to cross country skiing. The County also contains Rye Playland, a popular children's amusement park, historic sites from the American Revolution, the African American Heritage Trail and several famous houses, including Lyndhurst, a Gothic Revival mansion.

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.

Historic Domburg has been a destination for seaside vacationers since the mid 18th century. Wide beaches, sandy dunes and bustling boardwalks make this a popular summertime vacation spot. Renowned artists like Piet Mondrian have taken inspiration from the picturesque scenery. The beach-weary can walk or bike around De Manteling nature reserve, which opens serendipitously onto Westhove Castle.

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.