Propelled by Latin rhythms, with a bold style all its own, Miami is a spicy melting pot of cultures. Immerse yourself in the colorful Art Deco district, vibrant nightlife, and beaches for sun-worshipers and water sport enthusiasts alike. Put some money on the horses at Hialeah Park, one of racings oldest and most prominent tracks, right next to a lake full of pink flamingos. Go adventuring in the Everglades, looking for ‘gators and manatees, canoeing through mangrove tunnels, or paddling a sea kayak through the “10,000 islands”. Flashy and full of life, it’s a great place to play.

The capital of this island paradise is steeped in history and blessed with British charm. One might think Hamilton’s historic architecture would be at odds with its climate and topography, but it isn’t. The result is an eclectic hamlet with all the charms and refinement of a European town.

Almost 900 miles from the coast of Portugal and over 3,000 miles from the US, the volcanic islands of the Azores are, literally, out in the middle of nowhere. And it’s a spectacular place to be. The stunning beauty of the wild blooming hydrangeas backed by stark black volcanic cliffs would be enough on its own. But there’s incredible hiking, world-class fishing, and whales to watch as well. The latter is best done from the island of Faial, at the marina of Horta. There’s a passage between two of the islands here that’s part of the sperm whale migration route you could be on a rubber raft up close to pods of them surfacing right next to you

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its magnificent harbor made it a logical trading port as far back as the Phoenicians, as well as a departure point for 15th century voyages sponsored by Prince Henry the Navigator, patron of Portuguese explorers. The city is rich in architecture, from Romanesque and Gothic to Post Modern, and criss-crossed by monument-studded grand boulevards. Today it is seeking a place on the world stage by hosting, in addition to its own active cultural calendar, film festivals, art, fashion, and design shows, book fairs, marathons, and rock concerts.