Hot spots for 2007

Green and pleasant lands
Northern Spain
Green meadows, snowy mountains and spectacular beaches typify the lesser-known regions of Spain. Out west, bordering Portugal, is the lushest of all, Galicia, where the fjords, known as rias, create a stunning coastline. Its capital Santiago de Compostela is a thriving university town and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Neighbouring Asturias serves up mountains, lakes and valleys in abundance while Cantabria is home to lovely Santander, the stunning Picos de Europa mountains and a coastline dotted with picturesque fishing villages. The region's piece de resistance is the Basque Country. Enjoy fine dining in gorgeous San Sebastian with its shell-shaped La Concha beach, best seen from the heights of Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo.
For more information: visit the Turespa?a website www.spain.info/

Winter wonderland
Finland
It's home to the reindeer, midnight sun and, erm, Eurovision 2007. Dubious singing aside, northern Finland is where you can experience some of the country's most dramatic scenery including the famous phenomenon of Aurora Borealis, or the Northern (Polar) Lights. This natural light show in the night sky can be seen in Finnish Lapland around 200 times a year, or enjoy snowmobile safaris through the stunning forests or a sleigh adventure with huskies and reindeer. Helsinki is the country's capital of cool, with great nightlife and hip shops. Attractions include the island fortress of Suomenlinna, the Open Air Museum of traditional buildings on Seurasaari island and the unique 'Church in the Rock'.
For more information: visit the Finland website www.visitfinland.com/uk

Lost cities
Peru
It might not be an official wonder of the world, but it could be. South America's 'Lost City of Machu Picchu', a World Heritage Site, is no ordinary city. Abandoned before the Spanish conquest, its perfectly-preserved vestiges of former glory stand high on a mountain ridge. Respectful travelling is key, as high visitor numbers threaten to damage the fragile relics. Highlights include the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows and the Intihuatana where Inca astronomers would predict the solstices. Adventurers can hike along the famous Inca Trail but you can also arrive by train from colourful Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire and World Heritage Site with its blend of Inca and colonial Spanish design.
For more information: visit Peru's tourism website www.peru.info/

Atlantic beauty
Canada
Apart from the favourable exchange rate, Canada's fusion of English and French influences make it much more than just a greener, calmer version of the USA. For stunning scenery, go west to the provinces of British Columbia [BC] and Alberta where you'll find laidback Vancouver city, the spectacular Rocky Mountains and the national parks of Banff and Jasper. Wildlife is abundant so join a whale watching tour for a glimpse of this fascinating creature. For an altogether different Canada, go east. French-speaking Quebec is home to Montreal, where lively takes on a whole new meaning. The region is also a winter sports mecca and as you'd expect from the French, boasts excellent food and wine.
For more information: visit the Canada Tourism website www.explore.canada.travel/c