Festivity carries in the air as much as the sounds of saxophones and trumpets in New Orleans. Despite the damage inflicted by Katrina in 2005, NOLA hasn't lost any of its charm, spark, magic, and its people's inextinguishable joie-de-vivre–none of what makes it a unique city in the U.S. and the world. From the ever-lively Mardi Gras to the eclectic mix of cultures to the rich cuisine reflecting its Cajun, Creole, and French roots, New Orleans is a constant celebration of the human spirit.

It is easy to overlook this small island-nation, having, as it does, such powerful and flashy neighbours as Qatar and the Emirates, but to ignore Bahrain would be a huge mistake. It is an emerging power in the region, with all the luxury and worldliness of a cosmopolitan destination and all the charm and personality of a small island. Add to this the growing arts scene and burgeoning international cuisine in the country, and you have the newest prime travel destination in the region, and the most socially liberal one, to boot.

Concerts, motorcycle rallies, world-class shopping, and extensive beaches all lend to Myrtle Beach’s reign as a top vacation destination in not just South Carolina, but all of the United States. Over 14 million annual visitors flock to Myrtle Beach’s subtropical climate and subtropical recreation. Countless golf courses glitter the area, along with water and amusement parks, museums, historical sites, and more. Sail the coast or relax on the soft sand of the beaches and get to know this most exciting of vacation spots.

Providenciales is the primary tourist destination of the Turks and Caicos archipelago, which sits just north of Hispaniola. Its popularity is hardly surprising: this Caribbean island offers long stretches of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for extended snorkelling sessions. That's why so many upscale resorts and restaurants have come to line its shores, and a plethora of boutiques and galleries greet tourists that stroll around the main plazas: everything is in place for a welcoming and fun-filled stay.

Limerick, located on the banks of the River Shannon, holds the distinction of being Ireland's first-ever City of Culture. The city, famously remembered as the setting for Frank McCourt's "Angela's Ashes", boasts a dynamic blend of art galleries amidst its charmingly decrepit Georgian architecture. Known for its strong rugby culture, Limerick also has a thriving street art community, a bustling festival calendar, and the Milk Market that serves as a hub for food lovers.