Cody, named for its legendary founder, Buffalo Bill Cody, remains as full of Old West adventure as it was during the days when Bill himself roamed Wyoming. Serving as the Eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, Cody is just a few miles away from pristine wilderness where actual buffalo can still be seen. The town attracts tourists and cowboys alike with reenactments of famous shoot-outs, restored frontier buildings and with the Cody Stampede, which the town hosts every July 4.

Flanked by lakes, mountains and intriguing rock formations, Grand Junction offers a different side of Colorado. Mild weather year-round creates an agricultural oasis for 22 different wineries. Mountain bike along winding desert trails, wine and dine next to majestic rivers, and peruse a variety of shops, galleries and boutiques. For breathtaking natural beauty, don’t miss Grand Mesa National Forest and Colorado National Monument’s 23-mile stretch of scenic overlooks.

The main town of County Meath, Navan is the gateway to “the Heritage Capital of Ireland.” Ancient historic sites and religious ruins abound, and the Iron-Age monuments of the Hill of Tara alone are enough to fill you with awe. There’s so much more, though, like Trim Castle and the Abbey of Kells and the Neolithic standing stones of Brú na Bóinne. Book a guided tour so you can soak up as much as you can.

British Columbia's Sunshine Coast does seem to get more than its fair share of great weather, plus breathtaking scenery and friendly coastal villages to discover. The beaches are best in summer, but the natural beauty is year-round. Travelers rave about swimming while gazing up at the mountains, or just relaxing in a romantic B&B while the setting sun paints a canvas of color over the water.

Belfast has grown into a cosmopolitan city and become a popular weekend-break destination. The city pulses with an irrepressible optimism and energy. The Northern Ireland capital has an increasing number of intriguing bus, taxi, boat and pedestrian tours. Attractions such as Ulster Folk Museum and Belfast Cathedral, award-winning restaurants, lively bars from modern lounges to traditional pubs, hip clubs, great shopping, impressive theatres, galleries and live music make it a vivacious destination.

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.

Southwest of Seville, Jerez is a well-heeled place. It’s the home of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and its famous dancing horses; if you’re on a budget or can’t be there for a formal performance, it’s worth dropping in to catch a morning training session. The other major reason to visit Jerez is to sample its most famous product—sherry. You can do this at a number of bodegas associated with the world’s best-known brands, including Bodegas Tio Pepe, The House of Sandeman, Jerez, and Pedro Domecq. They’ll soon have you knowing your amontillado from your oloroso. There’s also an Alcázar, dating back to the time of the Almohads, which features a small mosque, now the chapel of Santa María Real.

Positioned at the eastern tip of the Costa del Sol, Nerja boasts nearly 10 miles of powdery beaches featuring activities like water skiing, scuba diving and sailing. Although tourist-oriented, it hasn't been overtaken by high-rises, and its huge promenade delivers panoramic Mediterranean views.

Set in a historic coffee region, Campinas combines the youthful energy of its universities with longstanding cultural traditions. Students keep cafés packed, nightlife is wild, and restaurants serve creative cuisine, while historic plantations and parks are just a short drive away.