Located on South Carolina's beautiful Grand Strand, Pawley's Island is the laid back alternative to the Myrtle Beach holiday. Shopping, dining, or golfing is all within reach. Just south of Myrtle Beach, Pawley's Island is best known for the Hammock Shops, a unique shopping experience of quaint small shops nestled under trees full of Spanish Moss. You can find everything from shoes to local artwork, or you might choose to go golfing on one of the many world-class golf courses in the area.

While Pawley's is quieter and more relaxed than nearby Myrtle Beach, the latter's close proximity provides infinite possibilities for dining and nightlife. Murrell's Inlet, a quaint fishing village, and its bevy of seafood restaurants is just up the road and also has a Salt Marsh Preserve. Simple but delicious hamburgers at the River City cafe or finer dining at one of the hundreds of other restaurants are all within short driving distance. After dinner you might seek out one of the many venues for arts and entertainment. The Carolina Opry is well known for its amazing shows. You can see a live show or dance the night away…or both!

Enjoying the beach is the obvious activity but there is so much more to do than just that. Parasailing is a popular option, as is a visit to the Huntington State Park to explore the local flora and fauna. The park has many programs to entertain and enlighten both the young and old. On the grounds is Atalaya, the home of the artist Anna Hyatt Huntington. Just across the street is Brookgreen Gardens which features many of the sculptures of the artist as well as the lovely manicured gardens.

Whether you're looking for sandy beaches, rocky coves, tranquil villages or mountain scenery, Spain's Costa Brava has something to offer you. Situated in the north-east of the country overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Costa Brava region enjoys hot summers and mild winters, making it an all-year-round holiday destination.

There are plenty of opportunities in the Costa Brava to play golf, tennis or football, as well as to take part in water sports. The Sant Daniel Valley on the western side of the Gavarres hills has mountain biking and trekking paths with stunning views. If you are looking for a cultural activity, the Archaeological Museum in Banyoles is housed in a Gothic palace and has displays of paleontology and pottery as well as archaeology. Modern art lovers must not miss the Theatre Museum in Figueres which has a collection of Salvador Dali's paintings. At the end of the day, if you still have some energy, there is no shortage of nightlife in towns such as Lloret de Mar.