As an American, I've always found the best overseas destinations to be the ones less traveled. In general, they tend to be more authentic, friendly and

Napa Valley, CA. Napa is the American capital for wine. Dating back to the early nineteenth century, Napa has produced world-class wines that compete with the most elite wineries worldwide. Choose from over 450+ wineries that produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and more. Napa is perfect for a couples retreats, family weekend getaway, or just a break from urban life.

Finger Lakes, NY - Indulge in wine tours, peaceful views and unique experiences when you plan your visit to Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York, the most beautiful and affordable wine country destination in the world.

Hungary's Lake Balaton. Central Hungary has a prototypical Continental climate, untempered by ocean breezes. July and August on Lake Balaton are steamy and crowded, and winter is chilly and forlorn, but the months from March to June are mild, and fall is magnificent. Each September, the Hungarian Viniculture Foundation sponsors a wine festival in Budapest, with tastings of wines from Lake Balaton and beyond. www.winefestival.hu.

Awatere Valley, New Zealand Formed by the colossal forces of ancient glaciers and the tectonic movement of the Pacific plate crashing into the Australasian plate. As the Ice Age ended, the glaciers left a giant gouge in the mountains of the northern South Island. One of the most distinctive nature combinations is grey clay & limestone - Grey Marl. Vineyards total some 19,000 hectares & include a diverse range of micro climates.

Rosburg, Oregon. The Umpqua Valley offers a much warmer climate then most of Oregon, making it ideal for the production of grape varieties. This unique microclimate produces Syrah, Merlot, Dolcetto, Malbec, Tempranillo, Albarino, Grenache, and other varietals. Enjoy the breathtaking natural landscapes of Oregon while visiting its 20+ wineries.

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. Pinot Noir or Merlots are a stones throw away in Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. The area that was once made famous for pristine lakes and acres of fruit orchards are now making a name for itself in the world of wine. Fruit wines that offer more sweetness then their full-bodied counterparts, that brought fame to the area, are becoming a hit with locals and tourist alike.