Canada

The only fortified city in continental America, there's every possibility you'll lose your heart to Quebec, an unforgettable cocktail of old world charm and urban sophistication. During your overnight stay, an evening stroll around the quaint back streets of Montemartre and Petit Champlain is perfectly punctuated by a visit - or two - to the city's patisseries.

The only fortified city in continental America, there's every possibility you'll lose your heart to Quebec, an unforgettable cocktail of old world charm and urban sophistication. During your overnight stay, an evening stroll around the quaint back streets of Montemartre and Petit Champlain is perfectly punctuated by a visit - or two - to the city's patisseries.

As it flows into the St Lawrence River, the Saguenay River winds through a majestic fjord to reveal a host of picturesque villages. Natural beauty surrounds Saguenay Harbour, this vibrant conurbation. For those who like to increase their knowledge of local culture and heritage, there are many museums to discover. ‘La Pulperie de Chicoutimi’ presents many diverse exhibits including the entire house of famed painter Arthur Villeneuve. The Bagotville Air Defence Museum presents an altogether more military experience with bilingual interpretation panels narrating the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Here you can view the only MIG-23 military aircraft in Canada. You might even see the current F-18 fighters in flight.

Almost 400 miles northeast of Quebec City, Sept-Iles stands proud in the Côte-Nord region, where roads are scarce. It looks over the St Lawrence River as it widens into the mighty Gulf of St Lawrence. While this corner of Canada may be better known for its endless landscapes of forests, lakes and mountains, there are in fact long stretches of sandy beach mere minutes from the centre of town.

The star-shaped fortress stands guard to this fascinating city, where in summer, a band plays the bagpipes while a cannon is still fired ceremoniously each day at noon. Come view tradition as it lives today.

See the bright lights of the Big Apple, international mecca and melting pot, with expensive brownstones, colourful neighbourhoods, great museums and ambling parks. Some come just for the shopping: there's Bloomingdale's on Lex, Tiffany's on Fifth, Barneys and the unique boutiques along Madison. Or head downtown and explore the trendy shops of SoHo.