The unique and ubiquitous island of Tahiti is world-renowned for its Polynesian charm, colourful culture and romantic ambiance. The grass-skirted hip shaking of Tahitian dance is sure to get your toes tapping and heart thumping—let the celebratory vibe of this magical locale rejuvenate and excite you to the core. Warm-water lagoons and crystalline ocean tides are host to a rainbow’s worth of colourful marine life, and the food, drink, spas and dramatic nightlife provide an experience to stimulate all the senses.

Lounge in style on the white beaches of the California coast. Pismo Beach offers premium ocean views, a 1200-foot pier perfect for fishing, and choice surfing. If you've had enough of bumming on the beach, check out the shops on the boardwalk or at the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets. Golfers will find plenty of desirable courses, and nature lovers will enjoy horseback riding or riding an ATV through the scenic sand dunes.

Yearning for the laidback feel of a rural fishing village with white sand beaches, combined with the luxuries and mild year-round weather of the Mexican Riviera? Punta Mita has all this plus championship golf, diving, sport fishing, surfing, sailing, sea kayaking, whale watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, Jeep tours, and rainforest excursions. Walk into town for beachfront restaurant dining and Pacific Ocean sunsets. Kids can safely swim at Playa El Anclote, where the rock jetties calm the shallow waters near restaurant row. Surf El Anclote’s long slow waves. Or seek out those special surfing spots along the coast, like near Punta Sayulita. Enjoy kayaking. Take the family sailing. Tee off overlooking the breezy blue waters of the Pacific Ocean at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Pacifico Course, rated among the best in Latin America. Pacifico is renowned for its optional 19th hole, the “Tail of the Whale,” a 199-yard par-three where you tee off over the Pacific Ocean onto a large island green. The Bahia, another Nicklaus-designed championship course, has six ocean holes, and is lined by beach sands and gated resort properties controlling course access. The Bahia Banderas (Bay of Banderas) and north towards Sayulita is great for fishing and diving volcanic tunnels, or just watching whales, dolphins, turtles, and ocean birds. Snorkel colour-splashed shallow reefs. Spend a day on a ponga, a motorized open-bow fishing boat in search of mahi-mahi (dorado), pugnacious pargo (big cubera snapper), Pacific sailfish, fighting roosterfish, yellowfin tuna, and bonita. From Islas Marietas and El Morro to La Corbetena and El Banco, the diving opportunities are numerous.

Meaning “place of divers,” Bucerias on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is a charming antidote to the hustle and bustle of nearby Puerto Vallarta. You’ll meet the friendly locals and enjoy beautiful beaches, fantastic dining, outdoor activities and art galleries. Locals congregate in the small plaza in the centre of town or head for the beach for some sun and unfettered mountain and bay views. Beyond the beaches of Bucerias, you’ll find superb dining, flea markets laden with special treasures, art galleries, and pubs. Once you’ve tired of the sun, meander through the flea market off the main plaza and tour the residential side of Bucerias, complete with boutique shopping and quality restaurants like La Quinta di Francesco and Adriatico. Some of the best art galleries in town include Splurge Art Gallery, showcasing emerging local artists and designer pewter. On Thursday evenings, participate in the local art walk, and on Sundays, visit the authentic Mexican market. From Bucerias, explore other Riviera Nayarit locations such as Savulita, Punta Mita and San Francisco – they’re all accessible by cheap, frequent bus service.

It’s no wonder Napa made three of our lists this year… it might just be the world’s most perfect spot for a weekend getaway. What more do you really need than romantic inns, great food and wine, and relaxing spas?

Ajijic, a small idyllic town in Mexico, is the perfect setting to enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday. Enjoy a night of lively music in the plaza of this picturesque town or enjoy a stroll along the lakeside path. Visit the colorful Chapala handicrafts market, or relax and enjoy lunch and a beautiful view at the Beergarden restaurant by the pier. If you’re travelling with children, take them to Christiania Park, right next to the market. At the park, they can play on the expansive lawn or on the playground. Take a day trip to the Casacadas de Agua, a favourite spot with the locals and a great place to spend with family. Climb the waterfalls or swim in sparkling pools at the base of the falls. Find a shady spot to enjoy the lunch you packed at your holiday rental or try a local delicacy at one of the many small restaurants in the area.