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.

Named after Abraham Lincoln, this state capital is a great place for children, history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. Soak in the panoramic view of the city from the observation tower of the 400-foot-high capitol building. The white stone Art Deco spire can be seen from miles around. Then take a tour of the building and its grounds, where you'll find a Lincoln monument created by the same artist who sculpted the famous Lincoln statue in Washington, DC. While you're on a history roll, visit the Governor's Mansion, whose Georgian Colonial exterior belies the varied architectural styles inside, and make sure and see the collection of dolls representing the state's first ladies dressed in their inaugural gowns. Kids will love the Folsom Children's Zoo & Botanical Gardens, where they can circle the zoo in a miniature train and see over 300 animals living among spectacular gardens. For some outdoor fun, head to one of the city's beautiful parks, the largest of which is Wilderness Park. The hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails will keep you on the move for hours.

While it may sound like a French village, Coeur d'Alene (pronounced core-da-lane) is decidedly all-American. Located in northern Idaho, this lakefront resort offers five-star amenities in a beautifully rugged setting. Visitors enjoy everything from pristine golf courses and professional quality tennis courts to hiking on pine-forest trails and cycling through nature reserves. The sparkling Coeur d'Alene Lake is the centre of most of the action: sunbathe on the beach, water-ski, kayak or tour the area by seaplane. At night, dine in fine restaurants and see top-rated shows. With upmarket attractions in an unspoiled setting, Coeur d'Alene offers visitors the best of both worlds.

At the crossroads of the Columbia and Wenatchee Rivers, Wenatchee is tucked away in a rugged valley full of natural and manmade wonders, from challenging golf courses to rocky trails. The Wenatchee Valley's numerous orchards, fruit stands and annual Apple Blossom Festival have garnered the area the title of "Apple Capital of the World." With the snow-capped Cascades to the west and the mighty Columbia to the east, the Wenatchee area offers no shortage of activities for the adventurous traveler.

A long sandy beach dotted with blue and white beach chairs... a stroll down Germany's longest promenade or by the sailboats in the marina... a romp with your best canine friend on a dedicated dog beach... a glass of wine with an ocean view... your seaside vacation in Ostseebad Kühlungsborn is a series of relaxing moments like these.

History lovers should know that Milan is not all about trendy shops and designer clothes. Among the city's many historical attractions are La Scala Opera, the Milan Cathedral, the National Museum of Science and Technology and Santa Maria della Grazie, the church that preserves da Vinci's "Last Supper".