At the foot of the Swiss Alps lies Valais, "the valley." This fabled region is a year-round favorite, with spectacular skiing in the winter and superb hiking in summer. The Matterhorn, the Great St. Bernard Pass and Zermatt are the stars of the area, but glaciers, lakes, mountain paths, castle-churches and a wealth of resorts also beckon. Visit L'Hospice du Grand St. Bernard to see the animals who helped the monks rescue travelers or the Fondation Pierre Gianadda, Roman ruins that now house modern art.

Glitzy Lech is one of Austria's most moneyed resort towns. Pricy, posh palaces abound, but this ostentatious, old-school winter wonderland has accommodations and a place on the pistes for all budgets. Popular since the 1920 and 1930s, this former farming town has managed to retain its original character and charm. Its somewhat isolated location forces an often tricky drive in inclement weather but also is part of what appeals to celebrity admirers. Nearest airports are Zurich and Innsbruck.

A rich blend of the historic and modern, Zaragoza sits on the banks of the Ebro River. Stroll in the center of town near San Miguel's pedestrian ways or around the Plaza de los Sitios, where you find boutiques, markets and souvenir shops. A center for gastronomy, Zaragoza offers food and drink for every budget and taste. But tapas is a must! In 2008, Zaragoza hosted the International Exhibition; the Water Tower, Bridge Pavilion and River Aquarium show off of the city's avant-garde architecture.

As one of England’s most haunted cities, Derby is awash with ghost-hunting opportunities. The city’s historic cathedral quarter serves as the gateway to the Peak District National Park, where rolling hills, babbling brooks, and traditional country pubs are reminiscent of a Romantic painting.