Named for a local swamp fish, Paraty sits on Brazil's southeastern coast, 125 miles south of Rio, with the Bocaino Mountains at its back. The small colonial town's center is a national historic monument with well-preserved buildings on its pedestrian-only streets. Take a boat trip out into the bay to the flotillas of islands and coves nearby. Explore sugarcane plantations and hike or take a train through Atlantica Forest. Keep an eye out for the monkeys that roam the cobblestone streets.

The Red River is the heart and soul of Shreveport, a cultural and gaming centre on the Louisiana/Texas border. Riverboat casinos evoke the glamour and mystery of the past while providing modern travellers with thrills and excitement. If the tables aren't your style, take a trip over the neon-lit Texas Street Bridge to the horse-racing at Louisiana Downs in Bossier City, Shreveport's thriving sister city. Visitors can unwind in one of Shreveport's botanical oases and enjoy the area's fine waterfront dining, shopping and entertainment. Shreveport sizzles in the summertime but has a temperate climate for the rest of the year.

Buffalo is being reborn as a mecca for art, architecture, history, culture, dining and entertainment. Experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s stunning Darwin Martin House Complex and world-class modern art at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Relive part of the city’s incredible history at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. Explore the emerging Canalside waterfront district, hip Elmwood Village, more than 400 independently owned restaurants (serving our famous chicken wings and more) and nearby Niagara Falls.