Don’t be fooled by Bermuda’s small size; this 21-square-mile Atlantic island is big on history, personality and charm, from pink-sand beaches to historic forts. It’s known for aquatic adventures like shipwreck scuba diving, cliff jumping and deep-sea fishing. On land you’ll find an eclectic island culture of vibrant neighbourhoods, brightly coloured shorts and delicious fish chowder.

Bermuda’s capital hosts hordes of cruise visitors in its harbor area, where two-story pastel buildings line the seafront. On certain summer nights, waterfront streets are closed to traffic and vendors and entertainers take their place for boisterous Harbour Nights parties. Stock up on Bacardi at the rum giant’s HQ or explore the mysteries of the sea at Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute. Hamilton presents some excellent golfing and shopping opportunities and is easy to explore on foot.

California’s desert regions fascinate visitors with the unexpected. Vast expanses, wide salt flats and ghost towns are on full display in In the quintessential desert at Death Valley National Park. Visit Joshua Tree National Park to see both the Mojave and Colorado desert landscapes, where wildflower blooms offer a spectacular sight every spring. Don’t miss the sculpture gardens and hiking trails of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

"Aigues-Mortes" translates to "dead waters," but the salt marshes surrounding this mediaeval city actually have given this town one of its chief industries: sea-salt production. (Bring some home for epicurean friends.) Fortified into a Mediterranean port in the 12th century, Aigues-Mortes’ massive walls survive—walk along them for great views.