For many, France's countryside is just as interesting and varied as the great city of Paris. There are many small towns and villages to explore for wine-tasting, skiing, beaches, architecture and historical sites. But if it is the "City of Lights" you love, be sure to take in the Louvre, the Champs Elysees, Notre Dame, sidewalk cafes, world class shopping — and of course, the Eiffel Tower.

Whether exploring ancient ruins, spotting wildlife along the dramatic coastline, or simply soaking in the calmness of this unique destination, the Shetlands provide a truly extraordinary travel experience.

Off the coast of Ecuador, the iconic and biodiverse Galápagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin’s nineteenth-century research expeditions on HMS Beagle, beckon you. This glittering archipelago, surrounded by vivid turquoise waves, abounds with stunning beaches and spectacular wildlife, perfect for the adventurous traveler.

Patagonia, Argentina, is a land of untamed beauty, where jagged peaks, expansive glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes come together to create one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.

Barranquilla sits near the mouth of the Magdalena River on Columbia's Caribbean side. It is a major seaport and a center of commerce, but everyone breaks loose for four days in February for one of the liveliest carnivals outside of Rio.