The small Brazilian village of Gramado is a quaint and woodsy respite that boasts some delightful surprises. After you’ve fully enjoyed the paddleboats and surrounding Black Forest pines of Lago Negro, pay a visit to Snowland, a unique indoor snow park. Kids will love a visit to Mini Mundo, a miniature park that features tiny replicas of famous landmarks.

The Atlantic crashes on a coastline strewn with quaint harbours, windswept beaches, glorious dunes and romantic lighthouses. Explore Cape Cod National Seashore, bike past cranberry bogs on the Rail Trail or saunter around Sandwich, the Cape's oldest town. Many areas are full of architectural and culinary gems - weathered shingles, whaling captains' mansions, chowder shacks and upmarket dining delights. Don't miss Woods Hole Oceanquest, famed Martha's Vineyard or charmingly lively Provincetown.

The strangers on Alfred Hitchcock's most famous train began their journey at Danbury, Connecticut's main station, along with thousands of other travelers over time. Now converted into the Danbury Railway Museum, the station and yards are open to visitors, with a collection of historic railroad cars and equipment. Just a few miles outside of the city's pretty historic center is Bear Mountain Reservation, a quiet forest parkland with hiking trails overlooking the calm waters of Candlewood Lake.

Known for its markets and its striking 19th-century limestone architecture, Kingston is a great base for exploring the Thousand Islands and the St. Lawrence River and its national park. Visit Wolfe Island on the free ferry, or hunt for antiques in nearby villages.