A dreamscape located in the heart of Blue Ridge Mountains in Western-North Carolina, Banner Elk is a favorite destination for countless individuals and families seeking fun in the outdoors. The 'ski capital of the South' offers plenty of open air activities such as fishing, rafting, horseback riding, hiking, golfing and, of course, skiing. Banner Elk also presents a climate that accommodates every itinerary, spanning the Blue Ridge and Grandfather Mountains, picturesque communities, fine restaurants, and specialty shopping.

Rotterdam is a young, dynamic city, continually renewing itself at a rapid rate. Sparkling skyscrapers, an impressive port, trendy restaurants and food markets, renowned museums and fun festivals are the direct result of the can-do mentality of the Rotterdammers. Add to that the many extraordinary attractions and city tours — by bike, bus, boat or on foot. Now is the perfect time to explore the Netherlands' second-largest city!

A trip to New York City is the perfect occasion to visit Syracuse, the fifth most populous city in the state of New York and the county seat of Onondaga County. First inhabited by Iroquois Indians, Syracuse's area has experienced intense waves of migration since the mid 1600s, which has shaped the city into a melting-pot of different communities and one of the most important centers for commercial salt production. Today, it's a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a wealth of cultural activities and world-class events.

Porto was once the last stop of adventurers on their way across the Atlantic to the New World. The cliché that Lisbon shows off and Porto just works is a well-worn metaphor that fails to do justice to the city's innumerate charms fully. History dwells around every corner, and more than ever, Porto is a place determined to hold on to its own distinct identity.

You would never expect to step into Bavaria while visiting central Washington, but upon entering Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains, you will certainly feel as though you have been transported to Germany. Nearly a quarter of the town's residents can trace their ancestry back to Germany, and they have brought that Old World feel with them. Alpine-style buildings line the streets of this gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries. Though the town is small, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality.