Follow the mineral-rich muddy footprints of Herod, Solomon and Cleopatra to the legendary Dead Sea and resorts developed round its adjacent hot springs. This famed health destination, at the world’s lowest dry point, is known for helping with rheumatic and skin problems.

Amman's layered history is reflected in its diverse people and its varied architecture. The city is home to a multidenominational and multicultural population. Even within the midst of the ultra-modern commercial centre, there is evidence of its ancient roots, with colorful souks, Roman ruins, cultural museums and monuments painting a picture of the history of the region.

Montepulciano makes a great base for exploring the Tuscan hill towns. Just make sure to pack well-broken-in walking shoes, because cars aren’t allowed in the centre of town. Explore the Duomo of Montepulciano and the Palazzo Tarugi… or sample the local wine, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which has been praised for centuries.

High in the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo boasts 140 ski runs and over 50 miles of cross-country pistes. Beloved for decades by society types for its après-ski scene, Cortina lies at the center of the Valle d’Ampezzo and has been featured in a number of films, including “Cliffhanger” and “For Your Eyes Only.”

With a comfortable climate that varies little throughout the year, Sanremo has been a favored tourist destination since the mid-1700s, attracting visitors from all over Europe, including heavy contingents of Russian and British aristocracy. For many, the long stretch of beach is the main attraction, but don’t miss the impressive casino or the hillside medieval section of town called La Pigna. Every year since 1951, the city has hosted Italy’s popular Sanremo Music Festival.

Relaxed beaches flank the sunny resort town of Menton, known as "the pearl of France," and its most temperate locale. Nearly a dozen private beaches offer bar service and lounge chairs. The free public beaches are kid-friendly with plenty of aquatic sports to inspire a plunge into the Med.

Norwich boasts museums spanning a ten centuries of history as well as a renovated city center with a pleasant pedestrian area lined with modern businesses and thriving nightlife. With two colleges, both with renowned art and writing programs, travelers will also step into a vibrant cultural scene. Tourist sites, dubbed the Norwich 12, include the historical Norwich Castle, Norwich Cathedral and City Hall, as well as the newer library and the glass Forum which hosts events from opera to skating.