Boasting Medieval fortresses, Roman aqueducts, Mediterranean coastline, endless vineyards and expansive national parks, a visitor could spend a lifetime exploring sunny Languedoc-Rousillon. Sitting on the geographic divide between the Iberian peninsula and mainland Europe, the regions towns and cities, including beautiful Carcassonne, Nimes and Montpellier, are connected by paths both ancient and new. Hike Via Domitia, a Roman road, or rent a barge for a trip down the Canal du Midi.

Within easy reach of both the Mediterranean and the Spanish borders, Perpignan blurs the line between French and Catalan cultures. The meandering, palm-dotted Old Town is anchored by a rust-coloured, Romanesque palace—a relic from when the city ruled the Kingdom of Mallorca.

The Mediterranean town of Argeles-sur-Mer is proud of its Catalonian roots, and the Catalan influence has left its mark on everything from architecture to local cuisine. The lively harbour, long sandy beach, and tree-lined walkways are even more idyllic against a backdrop of the Pyrenees.

It's easy to understand why Vincent Van Gogh was so charmed by Arles, with its sun-kissed stone houses, cobbled squares, and Roman ruins. Set on the banks of the Rhône River, the city also harbours a robust contemporary arts scene.

Just as lovely as its name, the former Ancient Greek colony of Roses is set on a scenic bay amidst striking natural surroundings. As well as white-sand beaches, this resort town is home to 16th-century fortifications, megalithic tombs, and plenty of modern amenities.

Dubai is a destination that mixes modern culture with history, adventure with world-class shopping and entertainment. Catch a show at the Dubai Opera, see downtown from atop the Burj Khalifa and spend an afternoon along Dubai Creek exploring the gold, textile and spice souks. If you’re looking for thrills, you can float above the desert dunes in a hot air balloon, climb aboard a high-speed ride at IMG Worlds of Adventure or skydive over the Palm Jumeirah.

Montreal, c’est si bon! This French-speaking city is considered the cultural capital of Canada, and is a cosmopolitan celebration of Québécois style. A horse-drawn carriage ride around the cobblestone streets and grand buildings of Vieux-Montréal will give you a taste of European flavour. The Basilique Notre-Dame is a confection of stained glass, and the Plateau Mont-Royal district will delight you with its quaint boutiques and cafés. Dig in to a massive plate of poutine to fuel up for a tour of the epic Olympic Park.

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.

We've heard Toronto described as "New York City run by the Swiss," and it's true—you can find world-class theatre, shopping and restaurants here, but the sidewalks are clean and the people are friendly. The best place to start is literally at the top—the CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere.

Among the best golf destinations in the world, Punta Cana is the very picture of leisure. Several of the courses have been designed by professional golfers, making for the perfect sort of kicked-back challenge that you want on a golfing vacation. The beaches here are simply perfect: calm, warm waters that gently lap at stretches of fine white sand. Thrill yourself with a zip-line adventure, clap along with traditional Dominican music at a cultural performance, or explore the magical lagoons of the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park.

The Dominican Republic lies in the same waters as Cuba and Puerto Rico, taking up the eastern two-thirds of the island it shares with Haiti. Offering a lush interior with a mix of caves, Victorian gingerbread houses and the lore of pirates, plus 900 miles of coastline along its brim, island highlights include riding a cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres and basking on stunning Saona Island. Oh, and did we mention the D.R. is family-friendly, has just about perfect weather and is affordable?