Glamourous Santorini is deliciously different. Geographical newness is in part to thank. The island’s popular black volcanic Perissa and Kamari beaches are big draws, as is its arguably most famous Red Beach near Akrotiri (which is the place to go for archaeology buffs). Santorini curves round a giant lagoon in the Cyclades islands, offering stunning views from sky-high towns, eclectic cuisine, lovely galleries, thriving nightlife and excellent wines.

A spot of white in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, the island of Naxos is a unique blend of ancient ruins and beach culture. The largest of the Cycladic Islands, Naxos is the childhood home of none other than Zeus, king of the gods. Upon arrival in Naxos, hike over a causeway to Palatia, where the Portara, a stone gateway to an ancient temple that no longer exists, stands alone, the symbol of the island. At sunset, the views of the island, and the sea beyond, are breathtaking.

There are beaches for everyone on Paros—families, partiers, watersports enthusiasts, honeymooners. Anyone can find their perfect stretch of golden sand. The same breeze that rustles orange and pomegranate trees will power your kitesurfing or windsurfing session. In the capital city of Parikia, make sure to pay your respects at the Byzantine “church of 100 doors” (Panagia Ekatontapillani) and visit the seaside ruins of a medieval castle built from the marble remains of an ancient temple.

While its footprint in the Aegean Sea may be small, Paros has more than enough beauty to take up a big spot on travellers’ must-see lists. Most stay in the island’s biggest town (although biggest is a relative term), Naoussa — where they can explore the labyrinth-style streets, explore shops filled with local goods, dine in the seaside cafes serving up fresh-caught octopus, and soak up all the Greek islands scenery they’ve lusted after on social media.

The Cyclades are a group of Greek islands with beautiful, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains and lush valleys. Glamorous Santorini and Mykonos attract the jetset, while lesser-known islands such as Milos and Naxos, are perfect for beach lovers. Ruins, including the 11th-century Dorian settlement and volcanic ash-preserved ancient Akrotiri in Santorini, amaze those with a bent for ancient history. Sifnos' cuisine wins it admirers. Hydrofoils, ferries and catamarans connect the islands.

If the mention of Mykonos doesn’t immediately bring to mind bright white buildings, turquoise skies and tanned bodies lining golden sandy beaches, you’ve been living under a rock. The most popular Greek Island in the Aegean Sea is all about energy and attracts a diverse and upscale crowd that thrives on its stylish nightlife. During the day some privacy can be had in the more secluded north beaches, but the south beaches are all party. Ski, jet-ski, windsurf, horseback ride, parasail or just save up your energy for the evening ahead, like most of your fellow travellers in Mykonos.

Classic whitewashed buildings line the labyrinthine streets of Mykonos, the largest town on the Greek island of the same name. Matoyianni Street is particularly charming. Iconic 16th-century windmills keep watch over the village from the hills above, and the fully functional Boni Mill is part of the Mykonos Agricultural Museum. The Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum will give you a proper introduction to the area’s rich cultural and economic history.

travellers say Halifax is best seen on foot, so park the car and start walking. Immerse yourself in Halifax's rich history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and be sure to survey the city from the 18th-century Citadel National Historic Site. Then walk into any of Halifax's great bars and restaurants and catch some live music to round out your day.

New Brunswick's transportation hub is vibrant Moncton, one of the country's fastest growing cities and a community steeped in history. Its storied past is brought to life in its many cultural institutions and museums, from the Acadian Museum to Le Centre Culturel Aberdeen. The city's largest green space, Centennial Park, includes many attractions and activities, from hiking and skiing trails to an artificial beach to an aerial treetop obstacle course and zip line.