Top Destinations, Past (5 Years)

Vietnam's bustling capital may be a 1,000 years old, but it's a thriving metropolis with a French colonial soul.

In place of vacant beach-front high rises visitors are greeted by a wealth of options for water sports, hiking, cycling, diving, and golf. It's an island of extremes, from its size (the biggest of the chain), to its age (the youngest), to its population (the smallest), to its natural wonders (highest peaks, most active volcanoes, glacial lakes, and snow).

The capital Tunis has the best of both local architecture, exemplified by its sprawling and bustling medina, and colonial remnants of wide boulevards.

Mexico City responded by doing well what it's done well for over four centuries: by serving as the crossroads for Mexico and highlighting its best assets: top museums, amazing archaeology, and perhaps the best food of any city in North America.

Focused on sensible city planning with comprehensive bicycle paths, free bikes, and a new metro line in the works to deal with the expanding city center.