Let the Gulf Shore breeze carry you to a weekend of sun-kissed fun. The Tampa-St Pete area is Florida's second-biggest metropolitan area. Not as flashy as Miami or as crowded as Orlando, the region has grown as a tourist destination, and it's easy to see why: miles of waterfront, sandy beaches, cultural attractions and exciting amusements. Busch Gardens has been drawing visitors for years, but the city also has another zoo, an aquarium and several major museums for those who need some time in the shade.

Known as the home of “the happiest place on Earth,” there’s more to Anaheim than thrilling theme parks. Bring your appetite to the Anaheim Packing District and Centre Street Promenade for some eclectic eateries and award-winning craft breweries. Explore the latest exhibits at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Centre. Enjoy live music at the all-new House of Blues, now at the Anaheim GardenWalk.

The quintessential California beach town of Santa Cruz! It was here that surfing was first brought to the mainland by Hawaiian royalty. Home to the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined downtown area, and the historic Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, which stretches out a half-mile into the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Other highlights include UC Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, and nearby redwood forests.

Whether you've got a few days or a few hours, Seattle's condensed downtown area and fantastic transport system make it a wonderful choice for a short jaunt. Surrounded by lakes and acres of lush green forest, the city offers a perfect mix of urban attractions and outdoor recreation. Grab a latte and get ready to see the sights. Start at Pike Place Market, an authentic farmer's market where local merchants sell fresh cheeses, meats and a variety of mouthwatering delicacies. Visit the famous Space Needle for a dramatic view of the city and its surroundings. With kids in tow, stop at the Children's Museum or Odyssey, where getting messy is fine and learning is fun. When you've had enough of indoor attractions, head to the Washington Park Arboretum for a canoe ride and a look at rare plants. Or take a moonlit dinner cruise on Lake Washington to Blake Island. Art and history museums, unique eateries and neighbourhoods, open-air festivals and activities are all just a taste of what makes Seattle the jewel of the Pacific Northwest -- and a perfect weekend getaway destination.

Victoria remains the most British of cities in North America; its picturesque location provides the perfect setting for an unhurried holiday or an active getaway. Visitors glimpse the Olympic Mountains in the background as bursts of colour from public and private gardens dot the landscape and boats sparkle in the harbour. Spend the afternoon on a whale-watching excursion, enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or browsing at the Royal British Columbia Museum.

Lanzarote’s largest resort area has much to offer visitors—in addition to the fine beaches, you’ll find casinos, great shopping, and tons of restaurant options. Puerto Del Carmen’s nightclubs and large hotels are a big draw for a youthful European crowd.