Spread along both sides of the majestic St. John River, Fredericton combines the coziness of a small town with the world-class institutions of a city much larger than this humble capital. Tree-lined streets and suburban neighborhoods of Victorian-era homes live harmoniously alongside three universities, countless historic sites, museums, riverfront trails and restaurants featuring local and international cuisines. Fredericton also boasts a number of world-renowned festivals.

The fact that Omaha has the largest number of public golf courses in the United States would be reason enough to visit, but there's so much more. The Henry Doorly Zoo houses the world's biggest indoor rainforest plus an aquarium. The Old Market area offers a walk back in time on cobbled streets amid historic buildings. Back in modern Omaha check out Borsheim's; owned by billionaire Warren Buffet, it is the single largest independent jewellery shop in the United States. History enthusiasts will be impressed by the museums and landmarks, while families will find plenty of attractions to keep the kids busy and happy. With hotels and restaurants to fit all budgets, Omaha is truly a destination everyone will enjoy.

Hedonistic Negril beats to a reggae pulse. Major tourist areas are Seven Mile Beach, home to adult-oriented resorts, and the West End, with smaller, more laid-back accommodations and beaches, shops and restaurants within walking distance. Get a cool drink and watch the sunset from Rick's Bar. Gaze at dramatic Negril Cliffs, which provided backdrops to James Bond's "Thunderball." If your hotel doesn't offer a shuttle, take minibuses. Or set a different pace and trot off on a horseback tour.

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.

Enjoy a compelling glimpse into the epic history of Stirling and its surrounding area by going back in time at Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre. Then explore other family-friendly attractions and the vibrant, independent boutiques around the Old Town and the Victorian Stirling Arcade. And be sure to budget time to visit majestic Loch Lomond – Britain’s largest body of water – and the Trossachs National Park, just a short ride away.

Brazil's former capital is renowned for its African-influenced cuisine, music and architecture. Known as "the Capital of Joy," because of its exuberant week-long Carnaval celebrations, Salvador brims with contemporary music and art amid architecture that has gone untouched since the 17th century.