Cairo’s an ancient city that also happens to be a modern metropolis—it’s one of the biggest cities in the Middle East and has the traffic and noise issues to prove it. But as long as you’re not looking for solitude, Cairo—the City of the Thousand Minarets—is a splendid place to explore Egyptian history and culture. (Editor's note: Our list was compiled before political unrest prompted many countries to issue travel warnings for Egypt. If you're currently planning a trip to Egypt, please consider the risks and monitor your government's travel alerts.)

The borough of West Chester is proud of its long history of hospitality, having hosted its first visitors way back in 1769. These colonial roots still show, with over 3,000 surviving structures dating from before the Revolutionary War. The tree-lined downtown area is listed on The National Register of Historic Places, with such a large collection of Greek Revival buildings that the town was named Athens of the West. It's the perfect place for a relaxing day spent walking and window-shopping.

Looking for world class powdery white quartz sand beaches, 100 golf courses within driving distance, and an endless selection of cultural and family activities? Siesta Key is the laid-back beach town that goes above and beyond. Right nearby in Sarasota, you'll find museums, art, wildlife, circuses, opera, ballet, symphonies, theater, film festivals, botanical gardens, baseball spring training... the list goes on.