Paphos, the capital of western Cyprus, has some serious historical clout. Site of the vast fourth-century BC Tombs of the Kings, set high on a cliff above the sparkling sea, as well as a dramatic Byzantine castle and fine mosaics, it's also known as the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite.

If watching the sunrise from atop a 10,000-foot volcano, swimming under waterfalls, hiking through craters and luxuriating on white-, red- and even black-sand beaches sounds like paradise, then Maui awaits.

One may think the sun, 60 miles of wide sandy beaches and more than a hundred golf courses would be enough to lure vacationers to Myrtle Beach, but this popular coastal city offers even more to enjoy.

The sound of music lures fans both of classical music and of Julie Andrews to Salzburg. Most sights are within walking distance of the city center.