Additionally, the company's distinct program provides the chance to explore countries like Austria and Switzerland, dine on authentic European food and drive a Mercedes on the most famous highway in the world, the Autobahn, with many of the expenses paid for by the program. For more information, visit www.mbusa.com.

* Put the pedal to the metal in the desert. Feel like you've jumped into a scene from "Lawrence of Arabia" when you visit one of the driest and hottest areas in the United States -; Death Valley, Calif.

With your air conditioning pumping, drive through the picturesque Eureka Dunes, and make a point to stop at Badwater Basin, an area of salt flats that sits at 282 feet below sea level and holds the title of lowest point in North America.

So, whether you're looking to stay close to home or heading on an international adventure, you can experience an ultimate road trip by making a list of points of interest in the area you want to visit and using city and state Web sites for ideas. Then, pack your bags, grab your map and head out onto the open road.