Blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills, and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters – the nine islands of the Azores, situated in the middle of the Atlantic, just 4 hours from Boston and 2 hours from Lisbon by plane, are a paradise for nature-lovers. Choose a holiday on these beautiful islands and you’ll rediscover the peace of the countryside in a stunning and unspoilt natural environment.

Festivity carries in the air as much as the sounds of saxophones and trumpets in New Orleans. Despite the damage inflicted by Katrina in 2005, NOLA hasn't lost any of its charm, spark, magic, and its people's inextinguishable joie-de-vivre–none of what makes it a unique city in the U.S. and the world. From the ever-lively Mardi Gras to the eclectic mix of cultures to the rich cuisine reflecting its Cajun, Creole, and French roots, New Orleans is a constant celebration of the human spirit.

Sitting near the confluence of two great North American rivers — the Mississippi and the Missouri — the St. Louis region has been a favored destination since Lewis & Clark began their historic westward discovery here in 1804. Dubbed the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis welcomes its visitors with the world’s tallest arch (630 ft.) which was completed in 1965 as a monument to Thomas Jefferson and the westward expansion of the United States.

Overlooked by spectacular heights of Table Mountain and surrounded by stunning beaches, lush farmland, and superb vineyards, Cape Town has established itself as South Africa’s cultural capital and one of the most vibrant cities on the continent. This is where African, European, and Asian cultures meet in a multi-ethnic rainbow reflected in its music, architecture, visual arts, as well as in its amazing choice of cuisines. Cape Town is great for partying as well, with a year-round calendar of festivals, parades, and world-class sporting events.