Balaton, the largest lake of Central Europe, which covers almost 600 square kilometres, heats up easily in summer, so its gradually deepening shores attract swimmers: the shallow parts of the southern shore are ideal for families with young children, but there are family-friendly beaches on both sides of Lake Balaton where you can try water sports as well. The region is also an excellent destination for fans of refined culinary pleasures: besides food delicacies, it is also worth sampling the regional wines of family wineries built upon two thousand years of viticulture, on sunlit, trellised wine terraces with a Mediterranean atmosphere. The Balaton region’s thousand-year history is reminiscent of the meeting of cultures. If you are interested in history, a long list of museums, abbeys, fortresses and castles await discovery in the area!

Known as the City of Palms, scenic seaside Bordighera is the proud supplier of fronds to the Vatican every Palm Sunday. Just a few miles from the borders of both Monaco and France, floral Bordighera has been a favorite resort destination for British visitors since the 19th century, when Queen Victoria herself was a guest. The town has many lovely gardens (like Pallanca and Winter), an archaeological museum (the Bicknell) and a lovely old town, but most come for the beach and seafront promenade.

Famed for its soccer team and music scene, which has produced the likes of the Smiths and Oasis, this center for sports and the arts is a down-to-earth and friendly city. The so-called Capital of the North has overcome industrial decline, bombing (in WWII and by the IRA) to become a confident and cosmopolitan city of well over two million. It is well served by a bus and light rail network. Top attractions include the Lowry art complex, arcade Affleck's Palace and Canal Street gay village.

Dubai is a destination that mixes modern culture with history, adventure with world-class shopping and entertainment. Catch a show at the Dubai Opera, see downtown from atop the Burj Khalifa and spend an afternoon along Dubai Creek exploring the gold, textile and spice souks. If you’re looking for thrills, you can float above the desert dunes in a hot air balloon, climb aboard a high-speed ride at IMG Worlds of Adventure or skydive over the Palm Jumeirah.

Once a destination for honeymoons and family vacations, Niagara Falls has really stepped it up as an action-packed vacation spot. The falls are literally the biggest draw – watching the frothy water tumble at alarming speeds can be mesmerizing. Throw on a poncho and hop aboard the Maid of the Mist to cruise close enough to the falls to be drenched by spray. Hit the main strip of Clifton Hill for flashy tourist attractions and restaurants galore.

Virginia Beach has all the elements of a classic seaside resort: gorgeous beaches, a lively boardwalk, plenty of restaurants and nightspots, and amusement rides sure to appeal to kids. Sports enthusiasts will find celebrated golf courses in Virginia Beach and the surrounding area, as well as sea kayaking and miles of hiking trails. Many believe Virginia Beach is at its best in the off-season, when the town is less crowded but the weather is still mild.