A rich 300-year history, a thriving arts community and seemingly endless wilderness make this New York capital city on the Hudson River a great weekend getaway. Outdoor enthusiasts come here to ski, hike, canoe and fish; trout and small-mouth bass fishing is among the best in the U.S. Mountains surround the city, and the tapestry of golds and reds on an autumn day is breathtaking. The city is dominated by an elaborate 10-building complex that includes the State Capitol; the New York State Museum, with life-like dioramas such as American Indian life and an Adirondack logging operation; and the oval-shaped Empire State Performing Arts Centre, nicknamed "The Egg." History buffs will enjoy the colonial homes, historic churches and museums, and can tour 18th-century mansions, like the Schuyler, a superb example of pre-Revolutionary War architecture. Whether nature or history is your passion, you'll find an abundance of both in this upstate New York gem.

Saratoga Springs is one of those special escapes where everything is just, well, pretty close to perfect. The city's lovely tree-lined streets and grand old Victorian homes, porch swings swaying and gardens brimming with colourful flora, bring to mind a gentler era. World-class horse racing, renowned performing arts and natural-springs spas, plus 13 golf courses, 10 museums, a historic battlefield, fabulous boutiques, antiques and restaurants mean there is something for everyone. Relax at the Lincoln Mineral Baths, window shop in town and then it's off to the races. Walk everywhere, it's that kind of place. One of the oldest tourist destinations in the United States, Saratoga offers ample accommodation choices in elegant hotels, historic bed and breakfasts or comfortable inns. The only drawback is you may never want to leave.

Syracuse is a city of hills, valleys, lakes and streams. The city sits on the shore of lakes Onondaga, is within 20 miles of the beautiful Finger Lakes region and 30 miles from Lake Ontario. Syracuse offers big-city amenities with a small-town feel: a symphony orchestra, an opera company, professional sports teams, museums and art galleries. Planning a summer trip? Don't miss the Great New York State Fair at the Empire Expo centre. Planning a winter trip? Bundle up - Syracuse is renowned for its snowy winters

The heart of Oklahoma beckons with over 140 parks, plus a variety of cultural attractions and entertainment venues sure to satisfy all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for world-class art, ballet, opera or just a day at the zoo, Tulsa is a great choice for a quick getaway. On the culture front, you could spend an entire weekend touring the city's fine museums. The Gilgrease, the Museum of Jewish Art and the Philbrook all offer fascinating exhibits. Anyone with an interest in gardens will not want to miss the Tulsa Garden Center and its extensive horticultural library plus other resources related to all things green. Outdoor activities include Bells Amusement Park, golf and River Parks, 20 miles of paved recreation paths that follow the Arkansas River past picnic areas, playgrounds, fountains and sculptures.

Spa-goers have flocked to Carlsbad since its mineral spring was discovered in the late 19th century. Today, you can visit the site of the original well, but you can do much more than just "taking the waters"—Carlsbad’s spas offer world-class services.

From Shoreditch’s swaggering style to Camden’s punky vibe and chic Portobello Road, London is many worlds in one. The city’s energy means that no two days are the same. Explore royal or historic sites, tick off landmarks from your bucket list, eat and drink in exclusive Michelin-starred restaurants, enjoy a pint in a traditional pub, or get lost down winding cobbled streets and see what you stumble across – when it comes to London, the possibilities are endless.