Berlin is having its moment. Widely considered Europe's "it" city, Berlin has cornered the market on gritty, artsy appeal. The city teems with Europe's most eye-popping art galleries, edgy nightlife, nearly 200 museums, lush parks, beer gardens and innovative restaurants.
Take a deep breath as you admire the famed Acropolis and Parthenon, wander through the ancient agorá, or marketplace, and then catch contemporary fever in the glittering shops of Ermou Street. Watch the sunset from a taverna, or restaurant, in Plaka, before raising your glass at one of Kolonaki's sexy bars.
Contemporary German culture encompasses one of the world's hottest — and grittiest — arts scenes; inventive, Michelin-starred cuisine; highbrow museums; and sexy nightclubs. While here, embrace the old world in the enchanting Gothic architecture and Bavarian castles.
So much tropical paradise, so little vacation time. Many US travelers opt for easier flights to the Bahamas or Jamaica, but there’s also coastline and culture to discover in more remote spots such as St. Lucia, Costa Rica and Barbados. American citizens don’t even need a passport to visit Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands. Islands controlled by the UK, France and the Netherlands give the region a little European flavor. Wherever you go, you’ll find beautiful vistas and pristine beaches.