It seems like most folks have a grandmother, great-uncle or some other distant relative that used to live in Brooklyn, or perhaps a friend that lives there now. In the early 1900s, it was a mecca for immigrants arriving via Ellis Island. A hundred years later, young professionals and artists left pricey Manhattan digs for Brooklyn's cheaper and more expansive space. Neighborhoods like Brooklyn Heights and Park Slope, which had fallen into disrepair over the years, were restored and reborn as funky enclaves. Walk or bike over the historic Brooklyn Bridge (or ride the subway) to Brooklyn Heights for a stroll along the Promenade and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Meander through Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens for a taste of nature in the urban wilds. Catch a performance at the world-famous Brooklyn Academy of Music. From the delicious Italian restaurants of Bensonhurst to the Irish bars that line the avenues of Bay Ridge, from the hotdogs and rollercoasters of Coney Island to the bagels and handball courts of Greenpoint, Brooklyn is a state of mind as well as a dynamic community. Discover why, no matter where people move on to, they remain Brooklynites at heart.

Newark has been welcoming guests since its first hotel opened in 1670. From the largest number of cherry blossoms in the U.S. to one of the country's highest grossing arenas, from Shaquille O'Neal's supersized cinema to the biggest collection of Tibetan art outside Southeast Asia, it's all still happening in Newark. Just eight miles from New York City, Newark offers travelers quick access and easy connections. Jump in and discover pro sports, fine arts, urban retail and outdoor adventure.

Wilkes-Barre serves as the county seat for Luzerne County, an area containing not one, but four of Pennsylvania's State Parks. Whether its fishing in Frances Slocum State Park, whitewater rafting through Lehigh Gorge State Park, cross-country skiing across Nescopeck State Park, or exploring twenty-two waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park, there is something for every outdoors enthusiast. If the indoors is more your thing, the city is also home to the Mohegan Sun Pocono Downs casino.

Pittsburgh has been remade and reimagined. Think 24 miles of riverfront trails, beautiful parks and historic attractions. Home to 90 neighborhoods, the ‘Burgh feels authentic and unpretentious. No visit is complete without a trip to the Strip District or PNC Park, a ride up the Duquesne Incline or a stop at The Andy Warhol Museum. Architecture buffs love Pittsburgh for the amazing downtown buildings. Hollywood producers, do, too—the city has even been called the “Hollywood of the East."

The best way to cap off a day of pristine Roatán reef diving and heart-pumping adventure is to sip a sunset cocktail by the beach. From zip-lining to deep-sea fishing to exploring the military-protected archipelago of Cayos Cochinos, the Honduran island is a playground for lovers of water sports and ecotourism. Landlubbers will adore the Carambola botanical gardens, touring the Stone Castle Cameo Factory, or exploring the beaches on horseback.

Romance and adventure are in the air on this lush West Indian island in the Caribbean, depending on your coast. To the west, you'll find calm waters and good swimming. To the east, there are massive, competition-caliber waves. Wherever you stay, expect turquoise waters, fine soft sand beaches, catamaran cruises and delicious island fare.

"Playa Blanca" means "white beach," and indeed, travelers flock here to swim and sunbathe. Huge yachts bob up and down at the marina, where you'll also find many shops and restaurants and a lively market. TripAdvisor travelers say Montana Roja is not "particularly strenuous" and offers amazing views from the top.

If there’s a "beach economy," Buzios is its Wall Street. Its more than 20 beaches, world-class galleries, clubs and boutiques draw an elite set of travelers. Surfers love Geriba Beach, snorkelers enjoy Ferruda, hip Ossos Beach offers upscale beachside cafes and laid-back Ilhabela Beach offers a more down-to-earth Buzios experience.

California’s desert regions fascinate visitors with the unexpected. Vast expanses, wide salt flats and ghost towns are on full display in In the quintessential desert at Death Valley National Park. Visit Joshua Tree National Park to see both the Mojave and Colorado desert landscapes, where wildflower blooms offer a spectacular sight every spring. Don’t miss the sculpture gardens and hiking trails of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.