You've probably heard that Guinness tastes better in Dublin (fresh from the factory), but what you may not know is that Dublin is a perfect destination for the whole family. No, we're not suggesting you let the kiddies drink a pint. Instead, take them to the Dublin Zoo, to feed the ducks in Stephen's Green or on a picnic in Phoenix Park. Scholars enjoy walking in the literary footsteps of such writers as Yeats and Joyce, while discerning shoppers have their pick of designer boutiques.

<p>Chester is a picturesque town on the river Dee in Cheshire, in the North West of England, not too far from Liverpool. Chester has a wide range of activities available to visitors, from simply walking round the compact city centre and shopping to visiting the very visible Roman ruins which are dotted through the town. Particularly impressive is the Roman amphitheatre next to Grosvenor Park, and you can also see a reconstructed hypocaust (Roman underfloor heating, more interesting than it sounds) in the Roman Gardens - and another one in the basement of a Spud U Like restaurant! Chester Racecourse is nearby for the family's gamblers and horse fans, and the more active-minded can try their hand at boating on the River Dee. Chester Cathedral is also well worth a visit, as is Chester Zoo (which might be more to the tastes of the younger members of the family). There are also many brilliant restaurants in Chester, but also a large number of traditional English pubs, many of which serve reasonably priced hot food for meals out. </p>

Once a shipbuilding city, Newcastle's flashier claim to fame is nightlife. Throw in a heap of premium restaurants serving foods from all over the world and it's no wonder young partiers choose to blow their hard-earned (or not-so-hard-earned) cash in Newcastle. While these amenities are certainly a draw for the hipsters and culture-seekers, it's the locals that make Newcastle a truly special place to visit. "Geordies," as they are often called, embody the pride, industriousness and resilient spirit of their city.

Located in the foothills of Pikes Peak, one of the most spectacular mountains in the USA, Colorado Springs is a haven for hikers, mountain climbers, skiers and those looking for the type of rest and rejuvenation only breathtaking natural beauty can deliver. Pack the camera and spend the day ascending 14,110 feet to the summit of the Peak, which is accessible by car, along a 19-mile highway, by train or on foot via numerous hiking paths. The view from the top is so magnificent that it inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful". Back down on the ground there's a plethora of man-made attractions to explore, including the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the United States Air Force Academy and an authentic old western town reconstructed from buildings that were abandoned after the region's gold-mining era. Don't miss the Tactile Gallery at the Fine Arts Center, an innovative exhibit space designed for the physically challenged, which showcases pieces that are "touchable" and offers Braille and large-print labels.