U.S. citizens still need to jump through a few hoops to visit Cuba, but as visitors from around the world know, this island offers some amazing opportunities for cultural exchange. Havana is a mix of old-world architecture and of-the-moment culture. Head out of the capital city to the small town of Trinidad to see more Spanish colonial architecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fantastic home base for a visit to the Valley of the Sugar Mills, a pocket of land that formerly served as the centre of Cuba’s sugar industry.

Gulfport, Mississippi, one half of the Gulfport-Biloxi section of the Gulf Coast, was very nearly destroyed during Hurricane Katrina. The city has been gradually reconstructed, and the surrounding natural areas have been rebuilding themselves as well. Visit the barrier islands that form Gulf Islands National Seashore, a parkland along the Mississippi Sound. A ferry runs from Gulf Port to Ship Island, with unspoiled white beaches and tidal pools, boardwalks and historic sites to explore.

There's more than one way to enjoy the spa experience in St. Lucia. One is to book a treatment at any of the luxury spas or resorts on the island. The other is to visit Sulphur Springs, inside the bowl of an extinct volcano, where you're welcome to try a volcanic mud bath or the 31°C/88°F Roman bath.

Oceanside is a seaside oasis of recreation and beautiful beaches. Centrally located between San Diego and Los Angeles, Oceanside is frequently referred to as “the hub of Southern California.” From here, it’s easy to access a variety of amusement parks and family activities such as Disneyland, Legoland, Sea World and the San Diego Zoo. If you’re looking to educate as well as entertain, you won’t be disappointed. Take your kids to visit Mission San Luis Rey. Founded in 1798, Mission San Luis is often called “The King of Missions” a