Chile's fourth largest city, Vina del Mar in Valparaiso, is also a popular summer beach resort. A Mediterranean climate prevails and an appealing array of sandy strips beckons, including Renaca, Miramar, Las Salinas and Casino. Renaca's calm waters and great waves make it a hit with families.

Only 70 miles northwest of capital Santiago, Valparaiso is Chile's main port and known for its bohemian, artistic vibe and lovely vistas. Its UNESCO-designated historic downtown offers charming colonial architecture, great seafood restaurants, markets and stores. Take 100-year-old funicular Ascensor Artilleria or climb Cerro Concepcion for stunning ocean and city views. Back at street level, visit writer Pablo Neruda's house.

Deep in the Patagonian Andes, Pucon is a picture perfect town accessed by plane in summer or by a nine-hour drive or train ride from Santiago. A great base for adventure vacations, Pucon is crammed with visitors during summer months December, January and February. Watch molten magma ooze down Mount Villarrica, hop between hot and cold thermal pools at Termas Geometricas or take the reigns of Criollo horses to explore the Andes on horseback. For other expeditions, rent a car or mountain bike.

Jamaica’s most energetic city, Montego Bay is both a raucous spring-break party town and a destination for those seeking a more low-key adventure. Known equally for its duty-free shopping, clear-water snorkeling, diverse nightlife and natural beauty, Montego Bay makes for a perfect Jamaican weekend getaway.

Laid-back colonial gem San Jose Del Cabo is picture-postcard perfect. This gorgeous getaway, with its palm-lined lagoons on the hem of the ocean, is full of the magic of Old Baja, where secret courtyards and unhurried days promise intrigue and romance. Fine hotels abound, including the elegant, world-renowned One&Only Palmilla.

Though famously home to Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, is more than just a college town. Nasher Museum of Art and the Museum of Life and Science show off Durham’s cultural side, while pretty parks and a dynamic dining scene add to its appeal.