Pampas grass lines the dunes that border the small town of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. The tufts of their leaves, fluffy and swaying with the breezes sweeping from the Atlantic Ocean, seem to mimic the fluffy clouds that sweep overhead in the blue skies. Since the 1920s, vacationers have penciled in Atlantic Beach for weekend getaways and summer trips. Perhaps, this is because of the town’s pristine sands and seaside activities, or maybe it’s because nothing beats dinner and an ocean-view sunset. Either way, the beach is calling.

Trapani is one of the most romantic places in Sicily, and arguably all of the Mediterranean littoral. Characterised by long stretches of coast and coastal plains, this city is littered with lavish monuments and palaces, historical sites, windmills, near islands and a countryside that begs to be explored. By night, the region should be enjoyed over a glass of Marsala wine and fine food at a beachside restaurant, ideally facing west so one can enjoy some of the most spectacular sunsets in Europe.

As a metropolitan city of amazing proportions, Dallas is the primary destination for travel and excitement in Texas. Drawing those with an innovative spirit, Dallas possesses an uncanny ability to combine Southern charm with commercial finesse. Its citizens have christened the city “Big D” in a fitting manner, for much like the state in which it resides, Dallas boasts of big style, from the endless entertainment and dining districts of its downtown, to sporting attractions spanning five professional teams.

Karlstad is a wonderfully compact Swedish city, built on a grid pattern with wide, tree-lined streets, avenues, promenades, and squares. Karlstad has a "big city" feel, with many quality hotels and other accommodation options, with the advantage that the city’s many attractions are just a short walk away: shopping streets, malls and arcades, culture, historical sites, urban nature activities, parks, transport, and amenities. Don’t forget that this is child-friendly Sweden and children are welcome everywhere in Karlstad.

Patras is a city of compelling layers. Its history spans four millennia, from ancient Mycenaean roots to a 19th-century golden age, all visible in sites like the hilltop Medieval Castle and the reconstructed Roman Odeon. Today, as a major university town and economic hub, it thrums with youthful energy, evident in its dynamic cultural scene and the legendary Carnival week. It’s a gateway to the Peloponnese peninsula, just a short ferry ride away from Italy and only three hours away from Athens. Choose your adventure!