13. Washington, D.C.
The Mall and the Neoclassical government structures aren’t all that Washington is. The American capital has recently experienced a trendy metamorphosis as a result of the establishment of new hotels (among them the Line DC and Conrad), popular eateries like Maydan and Estuary, and cultural institutions like the Glenstone just across the Potomac.
14. Minneapolis/St. Paul
The lakes and parks, which look magnificent even in the middle of winter, make it easier than one might imagine to deal with the cold weather, even though certain months might be quite severe. People are particularly obsessed with the diverse food scene, though.
15. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel, a picturesque community with English-style homes, is perched on California’s gorgeous Central Coast and features a white-sand beach backed by wind-swept trees. Great for shopping, but it’s also lovely to just stroll down the winding lanes, duck into nooks of bookshops and secret Zen gardens, then head up to the playground to take in the scent of the pine trees.
Don’t forget about Carmel’s vibrant art culture also; in just one square mile, there are close to 75 galleries.
