Santiago is one of those metropolitan joys where the more you look, the more you find. Funky cafes and dance clubs dot Bellavista, Forest Park art collections range from pre-Columbian to contemporary, and architecture runs the gamut from the 16th-century San Francisco Church to mirrored office towers. Shop with the locals at Mall Panora¡mico and give your palate meals to remember with hearty Chilean fare.

Chile's fourth largest city, Vina del Mar in Valparaiso, is also a popular summer beach resort. A Mediterranean climate prevails and an appealing array of sandy strips beckons, including Renaca, Miramar, Las Salinas and Casino. Renaca's calm waters and great waves make it a hit with families.

Writers and poets have long flourished in arts-oriented Cuenca, the country's third-largest city and the capital of the Azuay province. Cafes and galleries are tucked among the narrow cobblestone streets. The main plaza hosts both the old cathedral, started in 1557, the year the city was founded, and the blue-domed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, dating to 1885. Locally made Panama hats get top billing at the markets, with centrally located Casa de la Mujer a shopping standout.

Guatemala's spectacular Western Highlands run from Antigua to the Mexican border. Pines blanket misty hillsides, rivers cascade through sliver-thin ravines, volcanoes rumble overhead. Catch market day or witness offerings to drinking, smoking St Maximon, in Chichicastenango. See traditional life in the Ixil Triangle. Clamber the Cuchumatanes Mountains. Mayan dialects and ceremonies are still part of everyday life for the majority of Guatemala's indigenous population, still living where their ancestors trod.

Paradise Island is known for powder soft beaches and crystal clear, turquoise water, great for diving and snorkeling. Visitors can try their luck at the Atlantis Casino and dine “around the world” at celebrity chef restaurants. Spend the day at Aquaventure Water Park or swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cay. Take a scenic stroll through Marina Village or shop for souvenirs at Bahamas Craft Centre and Craft Cottage. Or just soak up the Caribbean sun on a beautiful beach.

Ajijic, a small idyllic town in Mexico, is the perfect setting to enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday. Enjoy a night of lively music in the plaza of this picturesque town or enjoy a stroll along the lakeside path. Visit the colorful Chapala handicrafts market, or relax and enjoy lunch and a beautiful view at the Beergarden restaurant by the pier. If you’re travelling with children, take them to Christiania Park, right next to the market. At the park, they can play on the expansive lawn or on the playground. Take a day trip to the Casacadas de Agua, a favourite spot with the locals and a great place to spend with family. Climb the waterfalls or swim in sparkling pools at the base of the falls. Find a shady spot to enjoy the lunch you packed at your holiday rental or try a local delicacy at one of the many small restaurants in the area.

The town of Luray, Virginia, sits in the Shenandoah Valley at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park, Luray is known for spectacular views and outdoor adventure. Grab a map and head for Skyline Drive, a gorgeous 105-mile road running along mountain ridges for the entire length of the park. Explore Luray Caverns, a network of caves offering daily subterranean tours, or head to Luray Zoo, a rescue center featuring a reptile jungle and petting zoo.