Cheltenham was just your average, sleepy town until the discovery of a spring in 1716, after which it became Britain's most popular spa town. (Like Palm Springs without the casinos.) Local Cheltonians have a reputation for being wealthy and respectable, and a walk along the Promenade will give you a first-class view of their wonderful houses, shops and gardens. After taking in the waters at the Pittville Pump Room (great name for a spa), check out the Art Gallery and Museum to learn about the social history of Cheltenham.

Traces of Preston’s industrial past can be seen in its historic Docklands district and steam train railways, while the city centre mixes the old and new, with glass-fronted shopping malls flanked by elegant Georgian townhouses.

Funchal, the capital of the Madeira archipelago, was declared a city in the 1500s, and became an important point between the old and new worlds. The laid-back city owes much of its historical prominence to the white gold, the Madeiran sugar. Today Funchal is known for its appealing temperatures, wine and crafts. Top spots to visit include the open Worker's Market, Blandy's Wine Lodge and the Sacred Art Museum. Friendly locals, walkable streets and cheap taxis make the city easy to get around.

Located in the very Northwest corner of Pennsylvania, Erie is the State's only Great Lakes port city. The Lake is the main attraction in Erie, with the sparkling water giving Erie its nickname, "Gem City." The nearby peninsula of Presque Isle State Park provides residents and visitors ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as sailing, swimming, hiking, and biking. The city is also part of the Snowbelt, famous for the winter wonderland created by the lake effect.

From the Magic Kingdom to magical spa treatments, Orlando sparkles with the promise of adventure. Spend a day exploring the world-famous Disney theme parks or screaming your head off on a Universal Studios roller coaster. For a less adrenaline-pumping afternoon, enjoy the quiet natural beauty of the Harry P. Leu Gardens or enjoy a seaweed scrub at a luxury day spa. Savor fresh and local ingredients at one of Orlando’s James Beard-nominated restaurants.