Synagogues, mosques and churches stand together in Toledo's historic quarter, a testament to the medieval Spanish city's diverse history. The four towers of The Alcazar, a fortress built in 1085, dominate the skyline. Toledo and its surrounding countryside inspired El Greco, and his paintings are on display in many places around the city, including the museum that bears his name.

Segovia is a picturesque old city with twisting alleyways, the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in all of Europe and pedestrian-only streets, all bordered by a medieval wall and two rivers. In 1985, this sleepy Castillan town was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. One of the main tourist attractions is Alcázar, a royal palace built sometime around the 11th century where Queen Isabel agreed to fund Christopher Columbus’ exploration of the New World. The picturesque palace is said to be Walt Disney’s inspiration for Cinderella's Castle.

Castile-La Mancha, a Spanish land of craggy cliffs, golden fields and red soil, produces savoury Manchego cheese, olives, saffron and more than its share of mystery. Chase the enduring legend of Don Quixote among the windmills of Campo de Criptana. Pass through the Bisagra Gate to experience the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that pays stylistic tribute to the Christian, Jewish and Islamic cultures. In Guadalajara, palaces and Baroque churches capture the imagination.

Crystalline water, plentiful restaurants and small hotels and the area's only sandy beach make Monterosso al Mare the most resort-oriented stop of the Cinque Terre. Day beds and umbrellas are available for rent on the crowded strand, popular with both tourists and locals, especially midsummer.

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.