The Algarve's sunny shores offer perfect escapes for all types, from those seeking the hot nightlife of flashy, energetic Lagos to those desiring secluded stays in rambling Sagres. Portugal's most southerly region offers historical attractions in former Moorish capital Silves and fascinating Tavira, great golf, fabulous beaches from Praia da Luz to Armacao de Pera, thermal springs at Caldas de Monchique, and miles of limestone caves and grottoes, cliffs and bays along its rugged coastline.

The biggest resort town on what's called the "Russian Riviera," Sochi is preparing to step onto the world stage as the host of the 2014 Winter Olympics. Somewhat ironically, Sochi is really quite temperate for most of the year, with its Black Sea waters warm and swimmable well into October. The Arboretum and Riviera Park are among the city’s most popular destinations. Serving as a beautiful backdrop for Sochi are the Caucasus Mountains, home to the nearby snow skiing resort of Krasnaya Polyana.

Playa de las Americas, near Tenerife's southwestern tip, is a lively, upbeat resort built in the 1960s. Today it's crammed with British restaurants, bars and hotels and North European tourists. Its white sands attract hordes of sun worshippers, while nearby El Medano is famed for its windsurfing. Top attractions include sailing, golf and dinner theater shows, but it's the nightlife on Veronica's Strip that is the top draw for the crowds of young tourists who flock here to party around the clock.