Every neighborhood in San Francisco has its own personality, from the hippie chic of the Upper Haight to the hipster grit of the Mission. The Marina district boasts trendy bistros and postcard-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge, while Noe Valley offers quaint and quiet boutiques. Wave hello to the sea lions at Pier 39, and sample local cheese and charcuterie at the Ferry Building. Sit in on a yoga session in Dolores Park or marvel at the Dutch Windmill across from Ocean Beach.

Located in the sunny Coachella Valley area of California, Rancho Mirage offers the perfect place to enjoy nearby Palm Springs, Palm Desert and Cathedral City, but it’s also a fabulous destination in its own right. With four courses in Rancho Mirage, not counting the surrounding areas, we guarantee you’ll find something you like. Like the late Bob Hope in days gone by, you’ll love teeing up among the palms! Rancho Las Palmas Country Club and Spa features three nine-hole courses designed by Ted Robinson. The Rancho Mirage Country Club has a PGA clubhouse, views of the San Jacinto Mountains as well as first-class driving ranges and practice facilities. Or put your clubs at the condo for the day and attend one of the many pro-golf tournaments in the area, including the ANA Inspiration. Rancho Mirage welcomes families in a big way! You and your children can explore the abundance of activities for all ages. Try the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert or Joshua Tree National Park. At the Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens, get up close and personal with desert animals from North America and Africa of every shape and size. Book a tour or explore the grounds on your own time table. Ride a camel, see an eagle and pet a turtle.

The Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys both make their home in Arlington. Midway between Dallas and Fort Worth, the city has long been home to Rangers baseball and now also hosts the Cowboys. Their state-of-the-art structure is the world’s largest domed arena. Visitors looking for other adventures can enjoy the original Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor water park, along with shopping, golf and nightlife. Arlington also has a vibrant culture of live music, symphony, museums and theater.

This resort community is known for its bright white beaches and soothing warm water. Daytime activities include scenic cruises, dolphin-watching and hiking. A great place for families, Gulf Shores has The Track, a family recreation center with bumper boats, and also the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

Quebec City may be the only fortified city north of Mexico, but it welcomes visitors with open arms. Explore the Citadel, where you might catch Canadian troops staging a military ceremony. As for food, you could splurge on afternoon tea at the Chateau Frontenac, or do as the locals do and snack on poutine—french fries with gravy and cheese curds.

Far from the north coast resort towns, Kingston is Jamaica at its most authentic, a sprawling city of contrasts spread between the east coast and the Blue Mountains. Kingston's diversity is reflected in its disparate neighborhoods, from the wealthy northern suburbs to the less affluent downtown. Travelers can discover the spirit of One Love at the Bob Marley Museum, or sample delicious ice cream at Devon House. Nearby, the former capital of Spanish Town offers insight into the area's history.