The stylish seaside resort of Búzios, once frequented by Brigitte Bardot (you'll find a bronze statue of the actress on the seafront promenade), is often referred to as the Saint-Tropez of Brazil. Its blend of upscale elegance and laidback coastal charm has continued to entice A-listers over the years – from Mick Jagger to Madonna. Take your pick from over 20 dazzling beaches and spend your day floating in topaz waters and lolling about on sugar-white sand, before enjoying a feast of fresh seafood at one of the chic harborside restaurants – washed down with a caipirinha or two, of course.

Brazil's boundless energy is celebrated in Salvador de Bahia, a soulful, intoxicating city with a reputation for decadence and fun set on a tropical coastline. But look beyond the street parties to discover Salvador's history as the center of the sugar industry and slave trade, which has profoundly shaped its character. This is the heartland of Afro-Brazilian culture, and the legacy of the millions of enslaved people brought to Brazil from the 16th century permeates every aspect of life, from culture to food and religion.

Maceió, the Indigenous word for “spring”, with its watery backdrop of cyclic lagoons and lush mangroves, is a historic port with origins in 19th-century sugar trade. Today, you'll find a modern beachfront city surrounded by powder-sand beaches strung along the coast either side of the harbour. But before you dive into those turquoise Atlantic waters, take in the dockside's Belle Époque buildings, the vibrant craft market at adjoining Pajucara beach, and several enticing museums including the Théo Brandão Anthropology and Folklore Museum, set in a renovated seafront mansion. There's also a striking sculpture by Oscar Niemeyer, architect of the country's capital, Brasilia.

Rio de Janeiro may capture the limelight when it comes to carnival, but Recife's huge street party, held every February, is where Brazilians go to dance. Maracatu drum orchestras parade through the old town keeping the beat, accompanied by energetic frevo dancers. Life revolves around the bars and restaurants in the Portuguese and Dutch colonial center and on the beach at Boa Viagem, which is lapped by waters calmed by the reefs after which the city takes its name and the gateway to a coast with some of the area's best seaside destinations, including Porto de Galinhas.

Santarém, one of the oldest cities on the Amazon, is where the waters of the Tapajós and the Amazon rivers meet – take in the view of their respective blue and brown waters blending from the observation tower in the Mirante do Tapajós. Originally the home of the Tapajós people, by 1661 the Portuguese colonists had claimed Santarém in the name of Afonso VI. Both influences can still be explored – Tapajós pottery is on display at the João Fona Cultural Center and the twin-towered baroque cathedral is a prime example of Portuguese colonial architecture. Don't miss the story of the late Dica Frazãu at the museum in her name, a designer who became internationally renowned for the clothes and fabrics she created from natural fibres for royalty and popes. But this is the heart of the Amazon rainforest, so a guided ramble in the Floresta Nacional do Tapajós, and the beautiful beach at Alter Do Chão should also be on your list.

Immerse yourself in Amazonian culture at this home of the Caboclo people where the Valeria and Amazon rivers meet. This tiny, welcoming community – barely 100 people live in the thatched houses that straddle the waters on stilts – opens its homes to inquisitive visitors and offer boat rides along the shore, from which you might catch sight of monkeys, toucans, and even the pink river dolphin. One way of showing your appreciation for this privileged encounter is to buy one of the handicrafts – masks, jewellery, leather goods – that the locals make and sell.

Manaus is an enigma: it's a huge port but it lies more than 900 miles from the ocean. The centre is home to grand buildings and ornate Belle Époque-style architecture while the city is surrounded by dense jungle. And although it's deep within the Amazon, Manaus had the first electric street lighting in the world. Just as the two waters of the rivers on which it sits never mix – the darker Rio Negro and lighter Amazon run side by side for several miles – so the different facets of Manaus are seemingly contradictory. But that's what makes it such a fascinating place to visit, and well worth a few days of your time before embarking on an Amazonian adventure. Don't miss the pink wedding cake-esque opera house, Teatro Amazonas, or the market Mercado Adolpho Lisboa, a replica of Les Halles in Paris, with ironwork said to be left over from the building of the Eiffel Tower. Such architectural extravagance testifies to the immense wealth that came to Manaus during the 19th-century rubber boom. While it's never regained its former glory, Manaus is still a sight to behold.

Manaus is an enigma: it's a huge port but it lies more than 900 miles from the ocean. The centre is home to grand buildings and ornate Belle Époque-style architecture while the city is surrounded by dense jungle. And although it's deep within the Amazon, Manaus had the first electric street lighting in the world. Just as the two waters of the rivers on which it sits never mix – the darker Rio Negro and lighter Amazon run side by side for several miles – so the different facets of Manaus are seemingly contradictory. But that's what makes it such a fascinating place to visit, and well worth a few days of your time before embarking on an Amazonian adventure. Don't miss the pink wedding cake-esque opera house, Teatro Amazonas, or the market Mercado Adolpho Lisboa, a replica of Les Halles in Paris, with ironwork said to be left over from the building of the Eiffel Tower. Such architectural extravagance testifies to the immense wealth that came to Manaus during the 19th-century rubber boom. While it's never regained its former glory, Manaus is still a sight to behold.

Deep in the Amazon, this island city can only be reached by air and sea – yet Parintins' remote location is why so many in Brazil and beyond have heard of this place. Parintins is known for its spectacular summer festival, Boi-Bumba, a week-long celebration of the indigenous community's culture and traditions, which isolation has helped preserve. Tens of thousands flock here for the event – it's second only in size and popularity to Rio's own world-famous carnival. The story at its heart – about a husband and wife and a bull – is lavishly told by the decorated floats, populated by giant models of the beast, and dancers in eye-popping costumes. But don't worry if you aren't in port at party time. While there is the Cathedral of Nossa Senhora do Carmo to see and the surrounding lakelands to explore, the bumba beat goes on, with performances held throughout the year.

Sandy shores and a beach-club vibe are not what you'd expect in the Amazon, yet this riverside town isn't known as the Brazilian Caribbean for nothing. Set on the banks of the Tapajós, this is a laidback spot for lounging in a hammock by warm waters, but make time to dip into local culture – dance to the carimbó beat, travel through the igarapés (Amazonian creeks), and pick up crafts made from tucumã, a native palm. There's a national forest nearby for treks through the jungle to spot the sacred samaúma trees and to hear the cacophony of birdsong.

One of three tiny dots just off the coast of north-eastern Brazil that make up the Salvation Islands, Devil's Island gets its fearsome name from the shark-infested waters and dangerous currents that surround it. Little wonder, then, that France thought it would make the perfect spot to house dangerous prisoners from 1852 to 1952. A penal colony was built on all three of the Salvation Islands, with Devil's Island being reserved for political prisoners, including Captain Alfred Dreyfus, who was unjustly charged with spying for Germany. Conditions were notoriously terrible, with violence and disease rampant. Today, Devil's Island is closed to all visitors but the remains of the penal colony on Isle Royale, where we dock, make for fascinating, if sobering, viewing.

Barbados is sun-drenched beaches, clear blue-green waters and cool trade winds. Its capital is a UNESCO treasure and inland you'll see lovingly preserved plantation houses, lush sugar cane fields and fragrant gardens. Reminders of former British rule abound, from cricket fields to Lord Nelson's statue and the original Trafalgar Square. Don't miss Bridgetown's bustling Careenage and the shops on Broad Street, which offer deals on luxury imports from Britain.

Dominica is the nature lover's retreat from the rush of daily life, a fragrant tangle of rainforest that is easily explored from its capital, Roseau. The tiny volcanic island offers both golden- and black-sand beaches to loll on – Batibou is a dazzler – but it's the wild beauty of its interior that enchants. Hike through the Titou Gorge, familiar from the moviePirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, dipping into the chasm's cool waters to swim to the waterfall at its end. Climb into the mountains at Morne Diablotins National Park (one of three on the island) for the chance to catch sight of the sisserou parrot. And delve into history at Fort Shirley, scene of an important slave revolt. Snorkeling in the bubbly, volcanic waters at Champagne Reef, shopping for handcrafted gifts at the Old Market, and watching out for sperm whales – this is the only country whose waters they live in year-round.

Basseterre is the compact coastal capital of the Caribbean island St. Kitts, where verdant hills and sugar-white sands meet architectural artefacts of French and British colonial rule. The town center is anchored by Independence Square – formerly Pall Mall Square – an 18th-century plaza with an ornate fountain and lush lawn, while nearby, the Georgian-inspired Circus is modeled after London's own Piccadilly. Venture just beyond the city to explore the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, an 18th-century British-built fortress that offers sweeping views and serves as a striking reminder of the island's layered history.

Puerto Rico's capital makes a strong impression – even before you arrive on shore. Sailing into the harbor, keep an eye out for El Morro, a 16th-century citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Castillo San Cristobal, a fearsome fortress built to scare away invaders, and La Fortaleza, the impressive official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. Once ashore, step back in time along cobbled streets and through squares flanked by pastel-colored Spanish colonial buildings. Or take your pick of beaches – will it be the golden-sanded Isla Verde, the snorkeler-approved El Escambrón, or the laid-back Ocean Park? Just don't leave San Juan without sampling a piña colada (or two) – the tropical cocktail was invented here in the 1950s.

Candy-colored houses and sugar-sand beaches give this sweet port town a fairytale appeal. One of the quieter spots on this island, the Samana Peninsula allows easy access to coves and bays straight out of a picture book. Playa Payita, known to the locals as The Little Lagoon, offers aquamarine water to dip into and the shade of bamboo and banana leaf umbrellas to retreat beneath. Playa Fronton, with its coconut palms and backdrop of black rock, is the perfect place to snorkel amid schools of parrotfish, nemos, and sunfish. But the big draw is the humpback whales that visit in winter – there's even a museum dedicated to the awesome creatures. Back on dry land, Los Haitises National Park, home to enchanting caves and ndangered birds, is a pretty place to hike, bike or kayak.Indulging in Samana's coconut-infused and zesty fresh seafood delicacies, taking a boat to the secluded beach at Playa Madama, spotting manatees amongst the mangroves in Los Haitises.

Switching off comes easily on Grand Turk. The paradisiacal capital of the Turks and Caicos archipelago offers an authentic and unhurried Caribbean experience, where snorkeling, sunbathing, and strolling the sleepy town are the only orders of the day. Should you wish to up the activity ante, embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure around the island or interact with friendly stingrays on a snorkeling excursion.

City meets sea in the coastal metropolis of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Soak up the sun along vast swaths of pristine white sands, take a scenic boat tour through palm-fringed canals, shop your way along the famous Las Olas Boulevard, and sip refreshing craft beers along the Fort Lauderdale Ale Trail. When it comes to dining, you're spoilt for choice: from fresh seafood with a waterfront view to Michelin-approved pizza, there's mouthwatering cuisine at every turn.

Formerly a strategic base for Britain's Royal Navy, this Bermudan port is now a bustling hub with historic buildings and wharves that house art galleries, craft markets, boutiques, and restaurants. There are endless treasures to be discovered: uncover Bermuda's fascinating past at the National Museum , dive among shipwrecks and colorful coral reefs in the warm waters surrounding the island, explore the dramatic limestone formations of Crystal Caves, and stroll the distinct blush-pink-sand beaches that Bermuda is famous for. End your day the Bermudan way – with a punchy rum swizzle cocktail.

Formerly a strategic base for Britain's Royal Navy, this Bermudan port is now a bustling hub with historic buildings and wharves that house art galleries, craft markets, boutiques, and restaurants. There are endless treasures to be discovered: uncover Bermuda's fascinating past at the National Museum , dive among shipwrecks and colorful coral reefs in the warm waters surrounding the island, explore the dramatic limestone formations of Crystal Caves, and stroll the distinct blush-pink-sand beaches that Bermuda is famous for. End your day the Bermudan way – with a punchy rum swizzle cocktail.

The subject of numerous songs, the setting for countless movies and TV shows, a bigger star than the celebrities who call it home… New York City needs little introduction. From the glittering skyscrapers of its financial heart to the green lung of Central Park, the priceless masterpieces of its world-class museums to the dazzling lights of Times Square – icons exist at every turn. There's Broadway and Wall Street, Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, but take time, too, to explore its lesser-known corners, such as the 28-acre Wave Hill public gardens in the Bronx, the colorful, restaurant-lined Doyers Street in Chinatown, and the 19th-century mansions of Victorian Flatbush.

A stylish, world-famous yachting center with a long tradition of elegance, the colonial sections of Newport boast many authentic historic buildings, some dating back to the 1600s. Most impressive are the opulent summer `cottages` built by industrial-age tycoons. Fashioned after palaces of Europe, their interiors boast lavish use of marble, alabaster, gilt, mosaics and stained glass complemented by magnificent furnishings and fine tapestries.

Relive nearly four hundred years of history as you explore the Freedom Trail, the Old North Church and the Boston Common. A few miles away lie Lexington and Concord where the momentous events that began in 1775 come alive. Boston has not been content to rest on the laurels of its glorious past. Progress is everywhere. Glazed high-rises soar skyward and the colorful waterfront area has been artfully renovated.

Bagpipers bid a warm welcome to Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia and the most Scottish of all Canada's great cities. The Citadel Fortress, which dates to the city's founding in 1749, stands over the thriving downtown area, where modern buildings nestle alongside the exquisitely restored Historic Properties waterfront. Here you can shop for authentic Scottish tartans and superb hand-knit woolens. Nova Scotians claim they have the freshest air and warmest smiles in Canada.

Cape Breton Island's main city Sydney is peaceful and cozy. This Canadian port town reveals its history in the Heritage & Science museum, and boasts the world's largest fiddle on the waterfront. Enjoy the coastal scenery on Cabot Trail for a true taste of this special landscape.

An archipelago of eight islands off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, St Pierre and Miquelon has the distinction of being the final remaining piece of French territory in North America. Culturally discrete from its Canadian neighbors, its main currency is the Euro and its cuisine, language, and lifestyle resolutely French. Awe-inspiring scenery, including waterfalls, boreal forest, and sandy isthmus, makes for a walkers' paradise, while boat trips lead you to puffins, seals, and – from June to September – whales. In the colorful capital, St Pierre, follow a 30-minute trail to the l'Anse-à-Pierre lookout for sweeping views. Then learn about the islands' often tumultuous history in the Heritage Museum, including its role as a rum-smuggling haven during Prohibition – Al Capone was allegedly a fan.

The windswept city of St. John's perches on the rugged easternmost tip of Canada's Newfoundland. It's an idyll for outdoorsy types, with hiking trails that snake along the Atlantic Ocean, sheltered white sand beaches, and clifftop plateaus that jut out over waters home to breaching humpback whales and puffins. Downtown, discover the candy-colored houses of Jellybean Row and become acquainted with the city's burgeoning culinary scene: super-fresh seafood is ubiquitous, but you'll also find a new wave of award-winning chefs taking local ingredients to new heights, in the form of innovative tasting menus and food and wine pairings. Don't miss a visit to the scenic fishing village of Quidi Vidi, where you can shop for artisan-made souvenirs and taste locally brewed beer.

If you are looking for a captivating city, full of charisma, then look no further than Cobh. Pronounced Cove, this picturesque town on the southern coast of Ireland exudes a rich maritime heritage and a captivating charm that lingers in the hearts of visitors. With its typical houses cascading down the hills, its lovely placement on the mouth of the River Lee, Cobh is a delightful blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty and a very easy destination to spend a few hours. The city is of course best known for its connection to the Titanic, as it has a poignant link to history as the last port of call for the ill-fated ship. The Titanic Experience in the original White Star Line building invites you to step into the past and immerse yourself in the stories of the passengers who embarked on that fateful journey. For those who feel the pull of The Emerald Isle's urban charms, then why not take the short 12-mile trip to Cork, Ireland's second largest city. Here you will find an eclectic, vibrant cultural scene, oodles of living history, plus plenty of traditional pubs showcasing the famous lively Irish atmosphere.

Located in the southwest of England, Plymouth is a coastal town known for its maritime attractions and indie shopping culture. Home of the famous gin brand, its distilleries are open for tours and, after that, you can visit the city's colorful art galleries and refined restaurants.