The heart of Canada's maritime provinces, Nova Scotia has brooding landscapes, wild sea coasts, and historic fishing villages. Its name means New Scotland, after all. Centered on a beautiful natural harbor, Halifax is one of Canada's most charming small cities, with lots of 18th-century stone architecture.

Canada's French-speaking homeland, Québec boasts two fascinating cities. Montréal, in many ways, the cultural center of Canada, has a rich history, excellent food, vibrant arts scene, and an indomitable sense of style. Québec City is at once a modern capital and one of the most historic cities in North America. Dating from the 16th century, it is the only walled city north of Mexico.

Maine is roughly as large as the other five New England states combined. It has 5,500 miles of coastline, some 3,000 coastal islands, and millions of acres of undeveloped woodland. In fact, more than half of the state exists as "unorganized territories," where no town government exists, and the few inhabitants look to the state for basic services. With all this space and a little planning, you'll be able to find your piece of Maine.