The second-largest island in Mediterranean after Sicily, Sardinia serves up a lovely blend of sea, sand and history. Thousands of nuraghe (stone buildings) dot the landscape, proof that people have been enjoying the lovely climate here for millennia.

This canal-laced city is a far cry from its spring break party image of the past. Following renovation and renewal, upscale stores and restaurants have replaced fast-food stands and T-shirt shops.

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.

Where else are Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffett equally revered? Key West is a sunny, fun destination with enough sights to keep you busy when you're not snorkeling, parasailing or catching some rays.