Prague

Stroll through town squares, visit galleries, and savour some of the world’s finest brews at old-fashioned bars. In Prague, the historical sites are endless. Visit the National Theatre to enjoy a ballet or head to the National Gallery to admire the visual art. Walk along the busker-covered Charles Bridge built in 1357 and admire the classic statues. The Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, is an architectural wonder. Also don’t forget to visit the Prague Jewish Museum housing six important monuments, the mechanical Astronomical Clock built in 1490 that attracts crowds on the hour, the art-nouveau Dancing House named for Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, and the graffiti-plastered John Lennon Wall.

What to watch out for in 2014: River cruising is a remarkable way to tour Europe. A Prague river cruise will allow you to discover the charming city and some of its neighbouring cities as you sail along the Danube River and revel in breathtaking landscapes.

Cairo

Cairo, Egypt’s capital city, is largely associated with ancient Egypt and is regarded for its Islamic architecture. It is home to the Great Pyramids of Giza and the 496-foot high pyramid, Cheops. The mosque of Mohammad Ali and the church where the Virgin Mary and Jesus stayed are also in Cairo. If you enjoy operas, you may visit Cairo Opera House or Khedivial Opera House. You may also want to visit Tahrir Square and The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, Khan El-Khalili marketplace, and the churches, synagogues, and mosques in Old Cairo.

What to watch out for in 2014: Egypt’s love of the arts can be traced back to the Pharaohs and lives on today in the annual Cairo International Film Festival that began in 1976. From November 9-18, films from all over the world are shown- the main allure: they are all uncensored. 

Athens

Brimming with landmarks, this enchanting Greek capital has much to be experienced. Savour authentic cuisine, stop by local markets, discover the nightlife scene, admire the duality of Greco-Roman and modern architecture, and delve wholeheartedly into one of the world’s oldest cities. The first thing you should do is climb the marble steps of the ancient Acropolis to greet the Parthenon temple and absorb the breathtaking views of the city. Lose yourself in the cobblestone streets of Plaka as you visit boutiques, cafes, and architectural sites. Athens is the birthplace of influential minds, home to archeological monuments and many museums. Visit Athens University, Benaki Museum and the National Archeological Museum to soak up some history.

What to watch out for in 2014: The National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) is set to open at its permanent location in the spring. The museum, which is currently operating at the Athens Conservatory, will relocate to the former Fix brewery, its original home. The brewery will maintain its industrial heritage on the exterior and will feature a rooftop restaurant, outdoor screening area, and open-air sculpture exhibition.

Boston

The forward-thinking city of Boston is home to artists, philosophers and renowned academic institutions. It has made its mark in the world of sports, newspaper journalism, and of course, the American Revolution. Enjoy ballets, operas, and symphonies in the legendary theatre district or explore the many churches, art museums, the financial district, and public parks. Walk the Freedom Trail path through downtown Boston stopping at sites such as the Paul Revere House, Boston Common public park, and Faneuil Hall government center. Other notable attractions include the Boston Public Library and the Kennedy Library, the 60-story John Hancock Tower skyscraper, the famous Fenway Park, and Newbury Street, a tourist and local favourite known for its shops and restaurants.

What to watch out for in 2014: Boston is known for its festivals, celebrating everything from blues music to the Chinese harvest to St. Patrick’s Day. There is a remarkable roster of festivals occurring year-round. Harborfest is the weeklong Independence Day festival that begins during the last weekend of June. You’ll experience musical performances, fireworks, activities for children, and Boston’s famous clam chowder.

Amsterdam

While in Amsterdam, soak it all up. Watch locals fly by on their bicycles, smell fresh flowers and spices displayed in shops, and savour the taste of a good beer on an outdoor patio. Here, history meets modernity. The Renaissance architecture and historic canals contrasted with electronic music festivals and cannabis cafes create an eclectic mix of sensibilities. Amsterdam’s main attractions, the Stedelijk Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, Anne Frank House, Amsterdam Museum, and red-light district, attract tourists wanting to explore this complex city. If you’re an admirer of visual arts, the Rijkmuseum and Van Gogh Museum house works of artistic genius.

What to watch out for in 2014: The Holland Festival takes place in June. Since 1947, the festival has featured the best in performance arts, incorporating theatre, music, dance, opera, and film.