Vancouver was founded as “Gastown” by an Englishman with a penchant for beer and storytelling. Today Gastown is a historic section of the Canadian metropolis, and the lively pubs still reflect the area’s former status as a sort of community drinking center. The city’s forests, grand parks, and impressive suspension bridge beckon travelers to explore them, as do the city’s shops and museums. Relive the glory of the 2010 Winter Games with visits to Olympic venues and the marvelous Olympic Cauldron.

Magical, historic, cultural, intimate – these are but a few of the words that best describe the balmy and magical escape that is Manzanillo on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. A lush, tropical environment welcomes travelers – verdant hillsides make way for sandy beaches, a setting that just begs for outdoor adventures and lazy days by the ocean. Visit between December and April and you’re likely to glimpse one of the playful whales swimming in Manzanillo Bay. By night, the village is full of energetic nightlife and restaurants are full to the brim. It’s all the charm of old world Mexico with every 21-century creature comforts you could want. While the crashing Pacific surf is sure to capture your attention for much of your time in Manzanillo, be sure to check out the countless other outdoor pursuits. Take an ATV off-road adventure, go deep-sea or sportfishing, head out hiking on an eco tour or take to the sea by kayak. Go sailing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving and surfing, then head back to shore for some shopping. Lace up your tennies for a volcano or waterfall tour.

Omaha is home to the world’s largest indoor desert under the world’s largest geodesic dome above the world’s largest nocturnal exhibit next to one of the world’s largest indoor rainforests! Climb aboard history at The Durham Museum, explore 100 acres at Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha’s Botanical Center and discover priceless works of art at the Joslyn Art Museum. Explore the Old Market, Omaha’s historic entertainment district, where boutiques, antique stores and restaurants line cobblestone streets.

One of the top diving destinations in the world for its bright storybook coral reefs, the island of Cozumel is also home to a variety of natural beaches. Choose a beach with soft white sand for relaxing, or snorkel off a rockier vista. A destination for both adventure and romance, Cozumel has a year-round Caribbean climate, untrammeled jungle and abundant nightlife.

Clermont is a small city in Florida, west of Orlando. Clermont, which is known as the “gem of the hills,” is surrounded by gently sloping hills in an otherwise flat state. The historic downtown has not changes much in 50 years. Clermont is also home to one of the first constructed landmarks in Florida: the Citrus Tower. When you are settled into Clermont, plan a visit the Citrus Tower. It was built in 1956 on one of the highest hills in the area and serves as a monument to Florida’s citrus industry. It stands 226 feet high and has a glass-enclosed observation deck at the top. You can also visit the Showcase of Citrus to pick your own oranges or take an eco-tour in a giant swamp buggy and enjoy a glimpse into Florida’s past. The entire family will enjoy a perfect day in the citrus groves. When visiting Clermont, be sure to visit Revolution: The Off-Road Experience. It is a unique off-road motor and sports venue perfect for families staying in vacation rentals in the area. You can ride ATVs and dune buggies, water ski, or go bass fishing. In Clermont, you can hike, bike, go boating, or drop your line in a lake and wait for the fish to bite. Play a round of golf on one of the many world-class golf courses in the area. Lakeridge Winery is Florida’s largest premium winery and offers winery tours and wine tastings seven days a week. A visit to the President’s Hall of Fame, with wax figures and White House memorabilia, is a perfect afternoon trip. A short drive away from Clermont, is Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, and the bustling city of Orlando.

The powdery sands of Varadero are as seductive as the soft lapping of the Kawama Channel waves. Famed gangster Al Capone used to frequent the shoreline resorts, and the city still maintains that glamorous luster that’s been historically appealing to high rollers. Mansions-turned-museums are favorite destinations for curious Cuban history buffs. Nature lovers can embark upon a day of adventure, exploring the area’s caves, keys, and virgin forests.

Discover an essential chapter of America's history in the cobblestone streets, river walks and monuments of Richmond. Originally a colonial settlement, Virginia's capital is now a thriving hub for culture, shopping and outdoor fun. Explore Civil War history at the American Civil War Museum, stroll along the canal downtown or test your nerve whitewater rafting on the James River. With lively neighborhoods and a vibrant restaurant scene, Richmond is perfect for a quick break or an extended getaway.