Crans-Montana actually comprises two ski resorts, Crans-sur-Sierre and Montana- Vermala, although for all intents and purposes, they function as one. Popular with affluent Italians, the skiing is good (best for beginners and intermediates), but the shopping, eating and drinking are even better. The resort claims to be on the sunniest plateau in the Alps, and indeed the snow is often lacking, but the views over the Rhône are superb. Every September, the resort hosts the European Masters golf tournament.

At the foot of the Swiss Alps lies Valais, "the valley". This fabled region is a year-round favourite, with spectacular skiing in the winter and superb hiking in summer. The Matterhorn, the Great St Bernard Pass and Zermatt are the stars of the area, but glaciers, lakes, mountain paths, castle-churches and a wealth of resorts also beckon. Visit L'Hospice du Grand St Bernard to see the animals who helped the monks rescue travellers, or the Fondation Pierre Gianadda, a Roman ruin that now houses modern art.

To most people, Zermatt means one thing: the Matterhorn. This ultimate Swiss icon looms over Zermatt, drawing visitors since the 1860s. Visit the Alpine Museum to learn about early attempts to reach the summit. Zermatt itself is a lovely, car-free village with old-fashioned brown chalets and winding alleys. Electric vehicles and horse-drawn cabs provide transport. A year-round destination, Zermatt is surrounded by 36 mountains, popular for their superb skiing (often into early summer) and hiking.

Located in the southwestern part of Switzerland, in its French-speaking part between Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, the Canton of Vaud is a holiday destination where life is good. Easily accessible thanks to the proximity of Geneva international airport and an exceptionally dense public transport network, the region offers all the necessary infrastructures, from five-star palaces to charming guest rooms. The diversity of its landscapes, from the peaks of the Alps, to the lakeside towns of Lausanne and Montreux, to the wide open spaces of the Jura and the authentic charm of the countryside, concentrates all the facets of Switzerland in one territory. The beautiful towns and villages, such as Lausanne, Montreux, Nyon, Morges and Yverdon-les-Bains, are steeped in centuries of history and rich in captivating culture. This region has influenced and inspired artists over the years, from Lord Byron and Audrey Hepburn to Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury. But the region is best known for its art of living. Local or internationally renowned events, outdoor sports activities, regional know-how, typical and high level gastronomy, excellent wines, living traditions, cultural offer... are all elements that seduce visitors.

When you think of quaint mountain villages in the French Alps, something like Bourg-Saint Maurice might come to mind. Narrow, cobblestoned streets lined with colourful buildings offer a glimpse into the past with local shops serving Savoyard specialties. In the colder months, skiers arrive en masse for some of the best skiing in the area. And when everything finally thaws, there’s a whole new world to discover: rich green mountains ripe for hiking and crystal-clear rivers perfect for kayaking or whitewater rafting.

Halmstad’s perfect for visitors who like their beach and golf vacations sprinkled with a dash of culture. Pause to admire the Pablo Picasso sculpture “Female Head” as you make your way along the pedestrian paths by the Nissan River. The stone streets of town center are lined with cafés and taverns, all bustling with locals. Bikers can coast along Prins Bertil’s Path, which takes you from Halmstad Castle to the Mollegard Nature Reserve.

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.

Kilkenny is over 400 years old, but it sure doesn’t show its age. Yes, it's an awe-inspiring throng of medieval cathedrals, castles, abbeys and other massive stone buildings, but Kilkenny loves to party. An endless stream of arts festivals celebrating theater, comedy, bluegrass and dance is constantly pumping the city with new life, toe-tapping energy and international flavor.

Plan to cross many bridges when in Cork. Ireland's third-largest city began life as an island and now spans both banks of the River Lee, with watery channels running beneath some of its main thoroughfares. The best way to experience this hilly southern seaport is on foot, following the signposted walking tour past St. Finn Barre's Cathedral and the riverside quadrangle of University College up the hill to red and white Shandon Church. Along the way, you'll meet plenty of the city's talkative residents.

There once was an Irish city… You might think "naughty poem" when you hear the word Limerick, but in truth the city inspires so much more than just knowing giggles. Medieval castles and churches give the city a grand feel, while the pubs crawl with lively locals and students who are all craving just one more pint of Guinness. The Hunt Museum boasts a collection of pieces from history's most important and influential artists, while the Foynes Flying Boat Museum will marvel visitors of all ages with its whimsical flying machines.

Originally founded as a Roman city and now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Seville is bursting with antique charm. The Alcazar palace complex is a stunning collage of architectural styles, and the Cathedral will impress you with its beauty and its status as the burial site of Christopher Columbus. The Metropol Parasol is the world’s largest wooden structure, a massive mix of grids and swirls that contains a market and a terrace observatory.

Spartanburg offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city energy, making it a must-visit destination in the Southeast. Unlike other fast-growing cities, Spartanburg’s growth enhances its appeal without sacrificing its inviting, crafted atmosphere. With the Spartanburgers minor league baseball team, scenic outdoor trails and a vibrant downtown, Spartanburg is transforming in ways that delight first-time visitors and returning guests. Conveniently located between Atlanta and Charlotte, Spartanburg provides easy access to outdoor recreation in the picturesque foothills of the Appalachians, along with a dynamic dining, shopping and entertainment scene.