Nestled along the northern shores of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is a paradise for adventurers, offering exhilarating activities the whole year through. The surrounding Sierra Nevada thrives in winter, drawing flocks of snow-lovers to Diamond Peak’s groomed runs and glade skiing. The same peaks provide secluded and challenging hikes in the summer months. Tahoe itself is the place to unwind. Although some beaches are open only to residents, there are numerous public beaches to dip your feet in.

On the California-Nevada border, Truckee-Lake Tahoe's scenic mountain beauty is perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor excitement. Lake Tahoe is America's largest alpine lake, with beautiful blue water surrounded by 70 miles of gorgeous shoreline. Donner Lake offers a public beach, and Donner Memorial State Park has campsites and trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and rock climbing. Boca Dam and Reservoir features magnificent fishing, with rainbow, brook, and brown trout, plus Kokanee salmon.

With the bluest of blue water and the greenest of green surrounding forest, Lake Tahoe, quite simply, transfixes. From the early Indians to authors such as Mark Twain, people have tried to capture the beauty and mystique of the lake with nicknames like "Big Blue" and "Grasshopper Soup". Others maintain that it's impossible to describe the magnificence in words. At 6225 feet above sea level, Tahoe is the highest alpine lake in the United States and has long attracted holidaymakers from around the world. In the summer, hiking, windsurfing, golfing, fishing and swimming (usually in wet suits due to the lake's brisk year-round temperature) are all the rage. The winter season starts in late November, around Thanksgiving, and brings throngs of skiers to local resorts. Located between California and Nevada, different sides of the lake tend to attract different types of visitors. The California side draws families and outdoor enthusiasts while the Nevada side beckons those looking for big-name entertainment and casinos. No matter which side you choose, a getaway to stunning Lake Tahoe will not soon be forgotten.

Basking in its 300 days of sunshine, Lake Tahoe is a haven for outdoor fun in every season. Swimming, kayaking and windsurfing are popular in the summer months, while epic snowfall makes for spectacular skiing in winter. For those who prefer indoor fun, there's plenty of that in Tahoe, too. With 24-hour casinos and a flashy nightlife scene, the area has a tangible Vegas vibe. A sprinkle of bling, if you will. Not surprising, since Lake Tahoe straddles the border between California and Nevada.

Nevada's "other" gambling and resort town, Reno is located in the western part of the state near the California border. What the city lacks in glitz or reputation it more than makes up for in attractions and amenities. There are first-rate hotels, golf courses and casinos to rival its southern counterpart and, also like Las Vegas, Reno has become a popular destination for families. Galena Creek Park offers nature trails that even young children can navigate, plus organised educational events for families.

It’s no wonder Napa made three of our lists this year… it might just be the world’s most perfect spot for a weekend getaway. What more do you really need than romantic inns, great food and wine, and relaxing spas?

Hidden gems of Yucatan, such as Tulum, Akumal, Chetumal, Chichen Itza and Merida, offer an authentic taste of Mexico. Akumal and more Caribbean-style Chetumal, near the Belize border, deliver delectable white-sand beaches and great snorkelling. Merida, Chichen Itza and Tulum, with their ancient ruins, offer a passage into the Yucatan's native history. Nature lovers can jungle trek and swim in subterranean sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water. Bike around the ruins and hop between towns in colectivo vans.

Isla Mujeres offers a wide variety of tempting options for beach lovers, and is a relative bargain. Snorkel with tropical fish amid coral reefs, skim the blue waters by kayak or boat, or windsurf along the shores of soft, sandy beaches. On land, you can sunbathe, dine on seafood, dance to Latin rhythms, tour on a moped or belly up to the bar for fresh, delicious drinks.

Sunny Naples is a popular, sophisticated and charming beach destination on the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts many world-class hotels and resorts along miles of white sand beaches. The ocean surf is gentle and the people are friendly. Shoppers delight in searching for antiques, home furnishings, clothes and jewellery. With its beautiful neighbourhoods and grand architecture, the atmosphere is elegant, yet relaxing. Sports enthusiasts spend glorious days pursuing their favourite activity, from golf to tennis to fishing. There are restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Even though it is a busy and cosmopolitan city, Naples offers easy access to secluded islands and the wilderness of the Everglades.

Vermont's Green Mountains are the peaks that gave the 14th state its name. Still largely covered by verdant forest, the area is a year- round destination, popular with both skiers and hikers. The Long Trail, a wilderness hiking trail, traverses the state, while drivers set a slower pace on Vermont's scenic roads. Quaint towns, such as Stowe and Montgomery, acres of farmed valleys, apple orchards, covered bridges and speciality stores take visitors back in time, and charming inns await.