• Shanghai: Once considered the "Paris of the East," Shanghai has always been a fascinating juxtaposition of edgy Chinese culture and Western commercial and architectural influence dating back to the 19th century. With high-rises quickly replacing ancient Chinese alleys, and trendy residents with money to burn, it has once again become the cosmopolitan heart of a more modern China in the 21st century.
  
  
• Dominica: This is not your typical Caribbean island--cheap, uncommercialized, and few beaches. Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) is an unspoiled eco-tourist's Mecca, with rainforests covering 2/3 of the island, waterfalls and cliffs everywhere, and native Caribs still in residence--the last Caribbean island to still have them.
  
  
• Mozambique: A country of relative calm amongst a continent of comparative discontent, a decade's worth of post-crappy-government rebuilding efforts are suddenly making Mozambique a "rising star" of Africa's tourist circuit. With beautiful beaches and tropical islands, colonial architecture and colorful local culture, this southeast African country has something for everyone.
  
  

Past Hot Spots