As far as a tropical destination in Europe goes, the island of Lanzarote in Spain is up there with the very best.  Located 79 miles from the African coast, it is not only the easternmost among the Spanish Canary Islands but also the most welcoming and memorable.  With over six miles of sandy beach facing an azure and serene Atlantic Ocean, the endless days of sun and sand make the island addictive to its visitors.  Referred to as the “Red Mountains” in the native language, the island was born of ancient volcanic activity.  If you ever visit Lanzarote, make sure the resort beaches of Playa Blanca and Papagayo are on your must-see itinerary.

A reunified Berlin, in the once divided Germany, isn’t to be missed if one wants to see the old blended with the new. Once divided into two, Berlin has come alive with new life and a zest for culture, politics, new media and science that is leading Germany to ever greater heights. A visit to Berlin will allow you to appreciate the operas and concerts, a diverse and interesting architecture, vibrant nightlife and nightclubs, and the lovely scenery. With the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 came a new liberalism and freedom of spirit that welcomes the tourist at every turn.  As far as history, the city is awash in it.  The Brandenburg Gate, built from 1788 to 1791 as a sign of peace, is a good first historical site in which to start an exploration.

Having recently been featured in the just-completed 2008 Summer Olympic Games, the Chinese city of Beijing presents a face of culture that is simply stunning. It’s easy to forget the genesis of the Chinese culture. The Forbidden City, which for five centuries was home to various Chinese dynasties from the Ming to the Qing, stands in awesome splendor at the center of the capital. It was also the administrative core of successive Chinese governments for centuries. The complex of over 980 buildings covers some 7.8 million square feet. This edifice inspires awe in all who visit it.  The Forbidden City is World Heritage Site, meaning it’s extremely precious and filled with history. On a visit to China, take the time to visit the Forbidden City and learn more about their culture and way of life.

A trip through Europe would not be complete without a stop at Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands. Not only is it the largest city in the country, but it definitely packs more fun and living per square mile than any other place on the Continent. There are the famous canals, which serve to make it the ‘Venice of the North,’ and the Rijks museum, which is the Dutch national museum of art.  Amazingly, in addition to its huge collection of paintings from the 17th century Dutch Golden Age, it has a breathtaking collection of Asian art.  But there’s much more to the town than just paintings.  Indeed, there’s a cultural casualness reflected in the city’s very easy-going attitude about many things which a visitor is sure to appreciate.  The nightlife, filled with Euro and techno-pop clubs, also provides ample opportunities for all to have fun.

If you’re looking for the birthplace of Western civilization and philosophical thought – and stunning ancient architecture – then Athens is the place to visit. It is blessed with warm Mediterranean sun and a crystal blue sea where one can swim and play. The Parthenon, itself the single most-important component of the Acropolis, sits as an awesome reminder of the glory that was the ancient Greek civilization. It is not difficult to imagine the old Greeks, milling about this temple to the Greek goddess Athena, discussing all manner of politics.  It’s largely considered the most important remaining building of that period of Greek history, often referred to as “Classical Greece,” Combine history with a present-day love of song, dance, memorable nightlife and the city of Athens comes to life, giving all who reside in it a taste of living.

Unknown to many, the English Channel coastline as well as the historic Jurassic Coast are exceptional places to see and tour. These sites provide fantastic sightseeing and cultural exploration opportunities in that part of England. Sights such as the famed White Cliffs of Dover are a sight to behold. Little resort towns, as they are commonly referred to, dot the entire coastal stretch. The Jurassic Coast also provides a fascinating trip down memory lane to the dinosaur age that can be shared with the children. It is a United Nations-designated World Heritage Site, and the natural beauty of the region is breathtaking. The climate is warmer and sunnier, due to its proximity to the warm waters of the English Channel. Such scenic beauty makes for a fun expedition.

If you’re searching for the true beauty of the Caribbean, the look no further than Jamaica. Many travelers venture from its Kingston capital, onto the country side of the scenic island, where they experience the warm culture of the people. If you’re looking for white sandy beaches, then a stop-over at Negril is a must. Its 7mile long beach has earned Jamaica international recognition. Most people who go there say the nightlife, after a day spent at the waterfront cliffs, is a perfect way to top off the Jamaica experience. Ocho Rios, Montego Bay – with its golf courses and beaches and nightclubs – and Port Antonio are all fun places you’d enjoy during a visit.

There is no better place to experience a carnival than down in sunny Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Interestingly, the carnival often seems to go on year round; so make sure you rest up and come prepared to have fun. One of the best ways to see the whole city is by traveling up the famed Sugar Loaf Mountain. From this vantage point, you can have a 360 degree view of the city and the famous Guanabara Bay. If that scenic viewpoint doesn’t intrigue you, then go up the Cristo Redentor, the mountaintop on which the world famous statue of Jesus Christ stands with arms wide open.  It’s also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.  Whatever your taste, Brazil provides ample fun for all

If you’re ever curious about imperial Japan, then the must-see destination is Edo Castle, in Tokyo. Once the home of the rulers who administered the Tokugawa Shogunate, it became the stronghold of the Japanese Emperor and his family in after the Shogunate was overthrown. The original castle was rebuilt in 1888, and then later bombed and partially wrecked during World War II. It has since been restored to its former grandeur and glory. It’s easy to picture stern samurai, armed with traditional swords, standing guard in front of the Emperor’s room, eager to do his slightest bidding. It is also still the home of the Imperial family, so parts of the castle are off-limits. But the areas that are open to the public are amazing and fun to see.

Just 18months after it was ravaged by the tsunami, Phuket has shown tremendous resilience and is well on its way to regain its former glory. The warm, tropical waters and an even warmer tropical sun provide every traveler with a beautiful escape. The little Thailand city, off the Andaman Sea suffered a tremendous blow during the Tsunami and has since not been able to attract as many guests as before. But, what’s certain is that there’s much to see and do in Phuket for children of ALL ages, providing a fun-filled vacation for the entire family.