Named for a local swamp fish, Paraty sits on Brazil's southeastern coast, 125 miles south of Rio, with the Bocaino Mountains at its back. The small colonial town's center is a national historic monument with well-preserved buildings on its pedestrian-only streets. Take a boat trip out into the bay to the flotillas of islands and coves nearby. Explore sugarcane plantations and hike or take a train through Atlantica Forest. Keep an eye out for the monkeys that roam the cobblestone streets.

German-inspired architecture adds a quirky Alpine twist to this resort, where high-altitude pine forests offer a wonderfully cool escape from the lowland heat. Add emerald-green peaks as a backdrop, and Campos do Jordao becomes a tropical mountain stunner.

Established by German immigrants in 1853, this is now the key port, transit and business hub of the Lakes District – a good place to replenish supplies, pick up Chilean crafts and get an urban jolt before moving on to more pristine pastures. If you're in the mood to sample some of the famous local salmon, the Angelmo harbor market should be your first stop. From there, it's a short boat ride across to Tenglo Island for views of snow-capped volcanic peaks. Santiago is a two-hour flight away.

Though lacking the breezy ambiance of most Mexican resort towns, Veracruz offers a gritty glimpse into life on the Gulf. Afro-Caribbean rhythms collide with colonial architecture in the lively town plaza, while the Malecon boardwalk stretches along one of the busiest ports in Mexico.