Sunny Florida skies, year-round warmth, nightlife, and a diverse culture define this cosmopolitan city. South Beach draws crowds, while the Art Deco District is the world's largest collection of Art Deco architecture. Shop from Bal Harbour to Lincoln Road and Coconut Grove, enjoy Cuban culture on Calle Ocho, or visit the historic Venetian Pool. There's something for everyone in this "Gateway to the Americas."

The 700 islands of the Bahamas Islands begin 50 miles off the coast of Florida, stretching 760 miles to the southeast. The heritage of Old Nassau blends the Southern charm of British loyalists from the Carolinas, the African tribal traditions of freed slaves, and a bawdy history of blockade-running during the Civil War and rum-running in the Roaring 1920s. Over it all is a subtle layer of civility and sophistication, derived from three centuries of British rule.

Savor the unparalleled natural wonders of this splendid volcanic island located at a crossroads in the Atlantic. See its stunning landscape, thermal pools, natural steam vents, volcanic lakes, subtropical flora, plantations and picturesque towns filled with perfectly preserved 17th and 18th century buildings.

Madeira is described as the "Island of Eternal Spring." Entirely volcanic in origin, the soil combines with the mild climate to produce an abundance of green as well as multicolored vegetation. The rugged landscape, scenic fishing villages, magnificent vistas and ideal climate bring the island fame as a year-round resort. Before leaving this panoramic Atlantic isle, be sure to sample a glass of the famous Madeira wine.

Cádiz, Andalusia's famed capital, has been beautifully restored. Palm trees, elegant squares, flower-filled parks, red-tile rooftops, and lively markets give the port a charming feel. Its old town sits on the peninsula tip, full of lively plazas, while the new town is an elegant modern city with excellent beaches. Cádiz is also a good base for a day trip to Seville, home to the Alcazar, Seville Cathedral, and the Giralda Tower.

One of Europe's most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona's passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

Experience Costa Brava and understand why Salvador Dalí and others have long been inspired by its beaches and coves. Spend a day in the warm sand of La Fosca or learning about the history of this fishing village in Museu de la Pesca or simply taking in the Mediterranean air while walking down the promenade. Just an hour north of the city, you can visit the extraordinary Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres. The museum holds works done from his adolescence to the last years of his life.

Spend a glorious day in the Provençal countryside; see magnificent Carcassonne with its towers, turrets, half-timbered houses and superb nave of the 11th century Basilica de Saint-Nazaire, beautiful hilltop Les Baux or Arles, where Van Gogh found so much inspiration. Or explore fortified Aigues Mortes in the heart of the Petite Camargue surrounded by ponds, marshes and saltpans.

Tiny but packed with fun, Monte Carlo blends history, beauty, entertainment, and leisure. Monaco's wealthiest district, it's known as the international capital of luxury, with celebrity sightings, casinos, and nightlife. Yet its old-world charm remains in art and architecture: palaces, cathedrals, and museums in a historic old town. Don't miss the daily changing of the guard and the public areas of the Palais du Prince, home to the royal family and once to Grace Kelly.

Picturesquely set in a narrow cove, this tiny port is famed for its beautiful setting, mild climate, and lush vegetation. Crowded around a small harbor, it is among the most beautiful Mediterranean ports and a longtime haunt of the wealthy, artists, and actors. Don't miss Chiesa di San Giorgio and Castello Brown with its garden and harbor views.

Livorno in Tuscany is a gateway to Florence and Pisa. From the 13th to 16th centuries, Renaissance freedom inspired Dante, Donatello, Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, da Vinci, and Machiavelli. In Florence, see the Galleria dell'Accademia and Michelangelo's David, plus the Uffizi, Italy's famed art gallery. Visit Pisa's Campo dei Miracoli, Siena's medieval charm, and Lucca, where you can bike through the Tuscan countryside.

Rome offers endless choices: enjoy street performers at the Spanish Steps, wine and people-watching in colorful Trastevere, or the city's rich history and architecture. St. Peter's Basilica is a full-day visit, with the Sistine Chapel and panoramic views from the dome. Don't miss the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and Aventine Hill, which overlooks the Imperial Palaces ruins and the Circus Maximus.