Despite being Slovenia’s second largest city, Maribor has the charm of a small town where nature and city live in close proximity. Embraced on all sides by lush green hills which in winter turn white and are excellent for skiing, forests and vineyards, most within an easy walk from the centre, you can sample the cafes and restaurants and stroll through the vibrant streets of the old town. But the nearby hills are a constant reminder that nature is just a few steps away and a whole world of leisure awaits you.

European explorers took what today is Praslin Island's nature reserve to be the original Garden of Eden, and no wonder — the primeval forest of Vallee de Mai has changed little over millions of years, and giant Aldabra tortoises still roam the archipelago populated by an incredible diversity of endemic plant and animal species. Out of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles, only 12 are inhabited by humans, making for splendidly pure natural landscapes, unspoilt beaches, and some of the world's most fantastic diving spots.

Fort Lauderdale is a destination that will satisfy the well-traveled with a discriminating taste. The year-round mild temperatures make its sandy beaches an ideal relaxing spot during the daytime. At night, however, the long boulevard turns into a vibrant party mile with clubs, bars and pubs as far as the eye can see. With some of the best restaurants, shops, and boutique hotels in the state, this city is a hip explorer's paradise.

With its unique mix of Creole culture and European cosmopolitanism, the French overseas territory of Martinique, and in particular its capital Fort-de-France, has just the right blend of tradition and sophistication. A fast-developing city boasting first-class shopping and dining as well as a bustling urban life. But the main draw to this Caribbean island remains its surrounding natural beauty made up of lush tropical rain forests, an active volcanic mountain, and picture-perfect beaches, which have captivated visitors for centuries.

Lake Tahoe is a masterpiece straddling the border between California and Nevada. The basin of glistening waters and palatial mountains was formed out of calamitous volcanic activity roughly a million years ago. Divided into North and South, both parts of equal beauty, Tahoe keeps locals and visitors occupied all year round with ski resorts, warm-weather activities, casinos, reputable nightlife venues, and fantastic food.