Another destination that's relatively close to home, Greece gives you the opportunity to enjoy plenty of culture in the sunshine. City lovers should head to Athens, which has been thoroughly overhauled after the 2004 Olympics. Stay in one of the new boutique hotels and marvel at the Acropolis before heading off to the islands. The Greek islands vary hugely, from romantic Santorini with its white cliff-top homes, to Crete with its orange groves and valleys covered in olive trees. Be sure to make the most of your visit by sampling the Greek cuisine.

Every trip to Greece needs to include at least a day or two in Athens to see the Acropolis, the National Archeological Museum, the changing of the guards and Plaka, the old section of Athens with it's many tavernas and shops.