Just north of Cancun, this seaside resort community is a far cry from the spring-break crowd. Bordered on one side by the Mexican Caribbean and the other by a wetlands wildlife preserve, the vibe in Playa Mujeres is one of laid-back luxury in a natural, untouched landscape. Unlike many other such tranquil places, Playa Mujeres is not a pain to get to. It's an easy ride from Cancun airport.

Despite having provided the backdrop to several Hollywood films, Mansfield manages to keep its all-American small town vibe. Its charming Main Street and Historic Carrousel District boast unique shops, galleries and an antique hand-carved carousel. The landmark Ohio State Reformatory has been the setting to several films, including The Shawshank Redemption and Air Force One. Mansfield's action-packed racing scene thrives at Mansfield Motorsports Park and the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

What do you bald eagles, migrating whales, coal mining and Alexander Graham Bell have in common? (Besides that your grandfather can probably spout factoids about all of them.) Cape Breton, that's what. With learning opportunities at every turn, the island is an eclectic blend of rich histories. Hear Celtic music in the pubs of the Ceilidh Trail, get a taste of 18th-century military life at Fortess Louisbourg and see what life was like for early Scottish immigrants at the Highland Village Museum in Iona.

What happens when a "gassy" Englishman rows into town feeling thirsty? A pub is born. And from that a city—in this case Vancouver. Though the pubs are plentiful, food and drink aren’t the only things to take in during your trip. In its 150 years, Vancouver has grown into a cosmopolitan city nestled in the great outdoors. Enjoy the snow-capped mountains, waterfront forests, cityside beaches, Olympic history and the world’s highest suspension bridge. Hipsters welcome. (Don’t worry, they don’t bite.)

Catch a wave in Cornwall! Beach, surfing, and scenery draw the crowds to Newquay every summer. Perfect your tan on the beach, paddle in the shallows, or join the surfers out at sea. Just out of town, the Holywell Bay Fun Park, Newquay Zoo, and Blue Reef Aquarium provide family fun, and dedicated cycling tracks offer an alternate way to tour nearby towns of Bodmin, Padstow, and Truro.