For nearly 400 years, the Netherlands and France have shared the island known as St. Maarten on the Dutch side and St. Martin on the French. Home to 37 beaches and an array of tropical experiences, the island’s dual cultural profile sets it apart from other Caribbean destinations. Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side, is a bustling port with a lively waterfront, colorful shopping district, casinos, and restaurants serving international fare. Water sports, like sailing, and rainforest explorations are all within easy reach of its docks.

The capital of the Balearic Islands, beautiful Palma is famous for La Seu, the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria overlooking the bay. The adjacent Alumdaina Palace has been a royal residence since the 14th century, and the Gothic-style Bellver Castle houses the city's history museum. The Juan March Foundation Museum boasts a permanent collection of 70 works by the most important Spanish vanguard artists of the 20th century.

Oslo, Norway’s capital, lies on the country’s southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord. It is at this headland that you’ll find the famous Oslo Opera House, its roof sloping toward the waterfront. Two parks not to be missed are Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist, and Ekebergparken, a sculpture and heritage park surrounded by beautiful scenery and spectacular lookout points.

Gorgeous beaches, aquamarine waters, abundant sunshine and cooling trade winds have long been Aruba’s calling card. This Dutch island captivates with diverse outdoor options – world-class golfing, windsurfing, snorkeling and diving – the distinctly bent divi-divi trees and striking geological formations. The desert-like landscapes and rugged coastline of Arikok National Park are the focus of eco-explorations.

Norman Island is vintage Caribbean paradise: small, privately owned, uninhabited except for wild goats, and accessible only by boat or helicopter. On Norman’s north shore is the sheltered bay known as the Bight, one of the greatest natural anchorages in the British Virgin Islands. At the bay’s entrance, sea caves are renowned for snorkeling. Just offshore, the rock formations known as the Indians are another premier snorkeling spot.