Normally, one wouldn’t equate "relaxing spa holiday" with "hanging out near an active volcano," but if you’re up for something more exotic than facials and massages, Banos might be the perfect place for you. The thermal mineral pools here are heated by the volcano, and while there are several, offering different amenities, the easiest one to visit is Las Piscinas de la Virgen. Banos also has plenty of outdoor activities, like rafting and biking on scenic paths.

Cuba's top beach destination sits on a 13-mile-long peninsula with powder soft sands lapped by waters of the Kawama Channel. Resort hotels teem along the shore that U.S. celebrities and gangsters, including Capone, discovered in the 1920s. Clubs and bars provide mojitos and merriment, after long days baking on the beach, golfing, diving or deep sea fishing. Rent a scooter or hop aboard an open-air tourist train or bus to see more of this stunning spot. Caves, keys and virgin forest add to the area's allure.

At the quieter end of the sunny barrier islands that stretch 28 miles along the Pinellas Peninsula's Gulf shore, the beach town of Clearwater attracts romantics and families to its powdery sands. Clearwater Beach is rated the number one beach in the Gulf region. Pier 60 would achieve a similar ranking, were sunset-watching spots similarly rated. Those who are hoping to stay out of the sand, whether that's on the beach or in the bunker, have a scintillating selection of golf courses to choose from.

One of Canada's best-kept secrets, Toronto is on par with New York City, San Francisco and Chicago when it comes to cultural attractions and urban activities. The best place to start is at the top, and in this city there's no mistaking where that is. The landmark CN Tower is the tallest structure in the world and also an important telecommunications hub. Take the lift to the top for a breathtaking view of the city and its surrounding areas. Right next door at the SkyDome you can see a Blue Jays baseball game or just walk around the massive stadium. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, the largest in Canada, with fascinating archeology and natural-history exhibits, and the Art Gallery of Ontario, with a fine collection of European and Canadian works. Don't miss the funky stores and ethnic restaurants on Queen Street West, or the elegant boutiques and fine eateries of Yorkville. Also head down to Harbourfront, a complex of unique shops and restaurants right on beautiful Lake Ontario. From Harbourfront you can hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a picnic and outdoor recreation. Toronto is an especially great destination for families as most attractions are child-friendly. Plus, it is an incredibly clean, safe and easy city to get around either on foot or by public transport.

Famous for everything from the Red Sox and Paul Revere to Cheers and clam "chowdah", Boston is a popular destination for so many reasons. Part history lesson, part modern metropolis, the Hub offers attractions to suit every taste and interest. It's also incredibly easy to get around, either on foot or on the user-friendly public transport system, called the T. The Freedom Trail, a well-preserved pedestrian path, weaves in and out of historic neighbourhoods, from the lively Boston Common and Public Garden to the gold-domed State House and Fenway Park. Between landmarks, you can shop in the fabulous stores on Newbury Street, have a delicious Italian meal in the North End or browse the antique shops and distinctive red-brick buildings of Beacon Hill. The more culturally inclined will not want to miss the city's world-class museums, theatres and music venues. Family friendly to the core, Boston also boasts a renowned aquarium, children's museum and science museum, making it a great break destination for all.

Imagine a city built entirely on the principles of pampering, recreation and relaxation, where sunny days, near-perfect temperatures and splendid natural scenery reign supreme. It probably looks a lot like Scottsdale. With more than 200 golf courses in the area, ample spas and wellness resorts, plus cultural attractions like master architect Frank Lloyd Wright's winter studio and numerous art galleries, the city is the perfect weekend antidote for life's stresses. Tee off at the exclusive Troon North Golf Club where emerald-green fairways, grand vistas and award-winning design combine to produce an unforgettable game. Or rummage round the many shops and galleries in town that display and sell Native American arts and crafts. In the evening, unwind with an in-room massage or admire the stars from the steamy comfort of an outdoor hot tub. In Scottsdale, pleasure is par for the course.

Once seen as the domain of cowboys and oilmen, today the mile-high metropolis is a cosmopolitan mix of natural beauty and world-class hotels, entertainment and attractions. The Denver Art Museum houses one of the finest collections of American Indian art in the world. The city is also the official home of four national teams: the Broncos, Nuggets, Rockies and Avalanche, meaning every season is sports season. Even with all the big-town glitz, Denver has managed to maintain its earthiness. Outdoor recreation is still a major draw. With 205 parks in the city and 20,000 acres of parks in the nearby mountains, there's ample opportunity for hiking, mountain biking, mountain climbing and more -- families visiting Denver won't know where to begin. The Zoo, the Children's Museum and the Botanic Gardens offer hours of entertainment. Or visit the United States Mint for a free tour. To prove that Denver really is "The Mile High City", head to the State Capitol. There's a spot on the west steps of the building that is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level.

Modern myth has it that these days everyone in Los Angeles has written a screenplay, is writing a screenplay or is just visiting. For those in the latter category we offer a road map of ideas to help make a trip to this ultra-hip, ultra-happening haven easy, fun and exciting. While LA will always be associated with movies and movie stars, it is also a culturally vibrant city that boasts a range of interesting attractions from prestigious art museums and galleries to fabulous theatre, both well-known productions and smaller fringe shows. Art enthusiasts will be stunned by the extensive collections at the J. Paul Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Visit the La Brea Tar Pits on Museum Row, then investigate the trendy shops on Melrose Avenue. Families will not want to miss the zoo or the action at Universal Studios Hollywood. Of course, no trip to LA would be complete without a stop at the Venice Beach Boardwalk or a visit to Mann's Chinese Theater and the Walk of Fame.