It’s not just for spring-breakers. Cancun, with its golden beaches and perfect climate, is the premiere coastal destination in Mexico. And while there is certainly a 365-day party available for college students, resorts cater well to families and to those seeking solitude. This Yucatan paradise is also the gateway to the ruins of Tulum and Chichén Itzá.

With an age-old reputation for being a place where anything goes, Biloxi, not New Orleans, lays claim to having hosted the first party to end all parties, Mardi Gras. Today, not much has changed. Whether you're looking for fun in the sun, cultural attractions, eclectic cuisine or glittering casinos, "the playground of the South" offers the perfect mix of exciting attractions and affordable accommodation. Its prime location on the shores of the Mississippi Gulf Coast means, no matter where you are, the beach is never far away. Spend the day riding waves, jet skiing, deep-sea fishing or sailing. In addition to water sports, families will find plenty to do at local mini-golf courses, amusement parks and the aquarium. Culture-seeking landlubbers can head into town to sample a number of historical and cultural sites, such as Beauvoir, the Biloxi Lighthouse and the Ohr-OKeefe Museum. Lavish floating casinos have brought gaming, exciting nightlife and prosperity to this sultry seaside retreat.

Casinos, naturally, continue to draw tourists to Las Vegas. From penny slots to high-stakes table games in private salons, you'll find it here. But there's much more to Las Vegas than gambling. Our weekend itinerary highlights attractions of a different sort, from the choreographed fountains at the Bellagio to the Liberace Museum. Las Vegas is also surprisingly family-friendly. In an attempt to appeal to kids, the hotels have spent millions developing technically sophisticated indoor amusement rides such as the Race for Atlantis.

Costa Adeje, on the southern side of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, is home to many newly-developed hotels that draw chic European guests. You’ll find great shopping (in boutiques and markets) and upscale restaurants, as well as plenty of sunny weather.

Strongly influenced by the tribal culture of the Guanches (the original inhabitants), Tenerife was conquered by the Spanish 500 years ago. It's home to Mount Teide, Spain's tallest peak, and to the popular beach resort of Los Gigantes. Today visitors flock to Loro Park to see tropical birds, to Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park and to Parque Nacional Las Canadas del Teide's volcanic rock formations. Explore by car or with a "bono bus" ticket, which offers reductions on regular prices.