Toronto, Ontario

Why: It’s one of North America’s most urbane places—a summer paradise on a Great Lake—with superb food, charming neighborhoods, and wonderfully friendly people.

How: A two-hour direct flight on Air Canada or Northwest; fares are highly variable and bounce between $250 and $450 roundtrip.

Stay: The SoHo Metropolitan (866-764-6638) is a sleek eighty-nine–room boutique property in the heart of the action with stylish and large rooms, a great restaurant/bakery (Senses), a lovely indoor pool, and a super staff.

Eat: The Jamie Kennedy (no, not the FOX comedian) Wine Bar (416-362-1957) is a temple of great small plates, an inventive wine list, and a savvy staff.

Pack: A Time Out Toronto guide—it’s definitive.

P.S.: Niagara Falls is an eighty- minute drive away—and viewing it from the Canadian side is far better. Don’t miss the amazing Butterfly Conservatory. Seriously.