Japan offers a mixed bag of experiences that range from historic to ultra modern, traditional to kitsch, super quiet to uber chaotic.

Japan’s four major islands are covered by an extensive, reliable and very clean network of railways. About 70% of Japan’s railway network is owned and operated by the Japan Railways (JR). The JR Group is made up of six regional passenger railway companies, which are JR Hokkaido, JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Shikoku, and JR Kyushu. Together they operate a nationwide network of urban, regional and interregional train lines, night trains and shinkansen (high speed bullet trains).

Popularity: 10% [?]

The tiny, winding, dark streets, grand, tree-lined paseos and intimate, ancient squares keep beckoning me back to Barcelona. On every street, around every corner, in every neighborhood, there is a magnificent juxtaposition of old and new, ancient and modern, traditional and cutting edge. This is a city and people that both celebrate and are inspired by their rich heritage. Barcelona is a city and people that inspire its visitors to celebrate and become immersed in its rich heritage.

Popularity: 17% [?]

You don’t need to go to a museum to get your filling of art and culture in Barcelona. Amazing graffiti is everywhere and is taken to new levels. The building facades are colorfully painted and feature unusual doors and windows. Look down and the sewerage and water grates contain a decorative element. Look up and down, to your left and right, beauty is all around in Barcelona.

Popularity: 52% [?]

My daughter goes to a French immersion school. In the summer between her 1st and 2nd grade, my husband and I thought it would be a good idea for her to have some sort of French experience (of course, not thinking of us). After some initial research, it became apparent that a trip to France was just not feasible. We resigned ourselves to the fact that we would just have to resort to French films, books and music. Then, it came to us – Montreal! A mere four hours away by plane and at a significantly reduced cost, our daughter could continue her French education during the summer (again, not thinking of us).

Popularity: 65% [?]