Expert skiers will love Snowbird, which offers some of the steepest and most exhilarating runs in the United States. However, there are also less intimidating slopes for less experienced skiers, and even those who don't ski will enjoy the mountain's breathtaking views.

Only 35 minutes from the SLC Airport, Park City's rugged beauty is complemented by over 100 restaurants and bars, open air concerts, numerous spas and health clubs, plays, independent film screenings, a series of world-class events and festivals, and as many kinds of lodging as there are people. If you're into thrills, try out the summertime version of the bobsled at the Utah Olympic Park or challenge yourself at one of several area golf courses.

The city was named after fearless fur-trader and adventurer, Peter Skene Ogden, who explored the untamed area in the 1820s. Since then, Ogden has seen poverty and prosperity, conflict and celebration. Today, although a more subdued and modern place, the city is still big on action and adventure the whole family can enjoy. Take the kids to ogle the more than 100 life-size replicas of pre-historic creatures at the Ogden Dinosaur Park and Museum. Or head to the Tree House Museum, one of the best of its kind in the U.S. Adults will find plenty to enjoy on local golf courses or hiking trails in the summer, and everyone will love the local winter ski resorts. A grand old depot, Union Station is a must see for history buffs and anyone interested in trains and railroads. Be sure to stroll along 25th Street downtown. This historic block was the center of activity in the early 20th-century and is home to many restored buildings from the railroad era. The street also boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, one-of-a kind shops, antique stores and art galleries.

Kemah has a boardwalk with amusement park rides, waterfront restaurants and shopping. Take a boat ride on the bay, or a carriage ride through town. There are also walking tours through the historic, haunted Kemah Light House District. The family-friendly city is halfway between Houston and Galveston.

Laid-back colonial gem San Jose Del Cabo is picture-postcard perfect. This gorgeous getaway, with its palm-lined lagoons on the hem of the ocean, is full of the magic of Old Baja, where secret courtyards and unhurried days promise intrigue and romance. Fine hotels abound, including the elegant, world-renowned One&Only Palmilla.

Stretching from the fishing village of Puerto Morelos to the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka'an, the Mayan Riviera offers an unforgettable Caribbean coastline experience. Divers and snorkelers will be dazzled by the wrecks of Xcaret and the Puerto Morelos reef. Use a zip line to descend into the sacred subterranean caverns of LabnaHa Eco Park, where you can snorkel an underground river under a canopy of stalactites. The nearby Tulum Monkey Sanctuary will put you in a playful mood.

Chiriquí Province is a mountainous wonderland, located near the Barú Volcano. If you’re an adventure and nature lover, you’ll be right at home here, as the region offers everything from white-water rafting and kayaking to zip-line rainforest rides and hiking. More relaxed activities, such as coffee plantation tours and bird-watching, also are available here. To reach Chiriquí, you’ll likely pass through David, Panama’s third-largest city. If you choose to visit the Gulf of Chiriquí, you’ll find first-rate scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports that take full advantage of its marine location.

Kapolei, named for the volcanic cone Pu'u o Kapolei (loosely meaning "hill of beloved Kapo"), is locally known as Oahu's "second city" after Honolulu. Built on former sugarcane and pineapple plantations, Kapolei is an affluent and vibrant city that is growing rapidly. It has an ever-changing urban scene as well as the Ko Olina resort and marina community and the Disney Aulani Resort. Sportsmen can play a round of golf at the Ko Olina Golf Club before a sophisticated evening on the town.