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Favorite Places Mason Williams

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Bangkok The top destination city by international visitor arrivals in 2013 is Bangkok, according to the MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. This is the first time an Asian city is in the top rank since the Index was launched in 2011. Khwaeng Bang Khun Si, Khet Bangkok Noi, Krungthep Mahanakorn 10700, Thailand

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London Whether drawn by business or as tourists, London's visitors from New York are the ones that travel the furthest and spend the most. London SW1A 2EL, UK 37 ft N

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Paris Never mind that Paris shows a decline in the estimated number of international visitor arrivals. It's still a favorite city of many travelers. 75001 Paris, France 6.7 m NW

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Singapore With a population of less than 5 million, Singapore expects 11.75 million visitors this year. Although it is a melting pot of cultures, including Indian, Chinese and Malay, English is the dominant language, and Westerners do not tend to experience the culture shock there that occurs elsewhere in the region. Singapore 148812 20 m S

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Barcelona Renowned for its legendary ftbol team, Barcelona boasts much more than athletic talent. Touring the city is a feast for the eyes: Visitors walk past medieval architecture in the Barri Gtic and Gaudi's innovative creations at Parc Gell and the Sagrada Familia. Plus, Las Ramblas buzzes at all hours.

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Maui Maui, one of the most beloved of all the Hawaiian Islands, lives up to its superlatives with exotic beaches (like Kaihalulu), palatial resorts (like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea) and lush terrain (as seen in the Iao Valley State Park). Plus, superb restaurants and historic sites abound.

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San Francisco Gourmet eateries, funky boutiques and laid- back vibes are just some of San Fran's charms. Areas like Nob Hill and The Castro offer unique experiences for every traveler. Famed spots, like Fisherman's Wharf and Alcatraz, are must- see attractions, too. And, of course, the city's crowning architectural achievement the Golden Gate Bridge is unforgettable.

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Rio de Janeiro With its dazzling beaches and soothing samba rhythms, Rio jockeys with Buenos Aires and So Paulo as South America's hottest destination and not just with its temperatures. The famous Christ the Redeemer statue presides over Copacabana Beach. And you'll be hard-pressed to find a more lively event than Rio's Carnival.

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Crete If you have to choose one island to visit in Greece, it's easy to make a case for Crete. Its diverse landscape features everything from ancient ruins to gorgeous beaches, and you can spend a day doing anything from shopping in Agios Nikolaos to hiking the Samaria Gorge.

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Prague Over the past couple of decades, Prague has transitioned from a backpacker secret to a flourishing Eastern European capital. As you wind through narrow streets, you'll admire iconic landmarks such as the Charles Bridge and St. Vitus Cathedral. After you've soaked up the scenery, save some time for enjoying local pilsners on a bar crawl.

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Bora It's hard not to find yourself enchanted by this dreamy, six-mile stretch of paradise: Lush jungles extend into sky high volcanoes and shimmering sands stretch into upscale resorts. Carve out some time for hiking Mount Otemanu, observing aquatic life at the Bora Bora Lagoonarium or simply relaxing on the beach

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Budapest Budapest is a sure standout for any trip to Central and Eastern Europe. The city caters to a wide range of traveler types and budgets. And Budapest will keep you occupied with its thermal baths, mellow coffeehouses, riotous nightlife and world-class museums.

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Vancouver Vancouver may not be as grand as New York City or as historic as Montreal, but why this Canadian city caught the attention of the International Olympic Committee is no mystery. The city bursts with parks, galleries and outdoor activities. Kayak in English Bay before taking in the scenery at Stanley Park.

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Montreal Here, it's as if Paris migrated to North America. Travelers adore the city's quaint cafes, bustling marketplaces and old-world architecture. To truly appreciate the city's majesty, visit St. Joseph's Oratory, next to Mont-Royal. This immense basilica crowns the skyline and provides stunning views.

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Cape Town It may have taken an international soccer tournament to garner the world's attention, but now that Cape Town has the spotlight, there's no letting go. Kick-start your day by climbing Table Mountain. Afterward, sunbathe along Clifton Beach's khaki-colored sands or tour the vineyards of the Constantia Valley

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Bahamas The Bahamas is made up of so many islands that it's hard to mash them all into one recommendation. But that's also part of their appeal. Airfare and hotel rates are reasonable throughout the year, but you'll get the best deals and have less crowds if you plan your visit for the summer or early fall.