Long known for its old-world charm, from the historic Faneuil Hall to the Freedom Trail that celebrates Boston’s preeminent role in the American Revolution, Boston has come a long way towards staking its claim in the 21st century. With the completion of the “Big Dig” that buried Boston’s vast network of highways underground, Boston has hit the new century running. Attractions span beautiful public libraries, fascinating museums and plenty of sports. Boston is destined to grow ever more beautiful as more and more of the ungainly elevated highways are replaced with lush parks.

Home to Chianti wine, the Medicis and the Strozzis, Michael Angelo's David, Elba Island where Napoleon was exiled, and the legendary cities of Florence and Pisa, Tuscany is the fertile crescent of Italy where art, history and the pleasures of life shine on. Evergreen landscapes and breathtaking sights serve as cradle to the Italian culture and civilisation to thrive, and it remains today as one of the most appreciated Italian regions, one where the visitor might need to pinch their arm to know they are not dreaming.

St. Louis, the largest city in the Great Plains, is known as the "Gateway to the West." This vibrant city is famous for its iconic 630-foot Gateway Arch and its role in westward expansion. But there's much more to discover! Artisanal breweries, bowling alleys, and baseball games are essential to the city, and a rich musical heritage lives on in countless live-music venues. Explore the city's history and culture along the Mississippi River, and enjoy beautiful parks and delicious local cuisine.

Impressive architecture and hip restaurants meet a sunny Spanish climate and beautiful beaches. This has transformed Barcelona, in just a few decades, from a rough port city into one of Europe's, if not the world's, premier destinations. Stroll along La Rambla and Passeig de Gràcia, admire Gaudí's masterpieces, lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter, bask in the sun at Barceloneta beach, and discover some of the city's vibrant late-night haunts while you're at it.

Perugia is the provincial capital of Umbria, one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. The ancient heart of the city, packed full of Etruscan and Roman monuments, perches on a hilltop with the modern city spread below. With a prestigious university, the city has a lively student population, good shopping, fun bars and great restaurants. If that weren't enough, Perugia is the setting for one of Europe’s best jazz festivals: Umbria Jazz.