Key West, Florida, USA

Closer to Cuba than to Miami, the southernmost city in the continental United States can feel like a country all its own. Home to free spirits, scuba divers and six-toed cats, Key West is defined by its quirky charm. People go barefoot, chickens roam the streets and eclectic culture rules. Architecture lovers will appreciate classic Caribbean villas, unique Keys conch houses and Victorian and Queen Anne gingerbread homes. Shopping opportunities range from many music and book shops to trendy designer boutiques. Activities not to miss in Key West include watching the sunset in Mallory Square, seeing the cats and literary relics at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and eating an authentic piece of Key lime pie. Speaking of eating, from fantastic waterfront seafood dives to authentic Cuban delicacies to the fine-dining establishments of Duval Street, the choices are many and fresh is the word.