I don't think he can go wrong whereverever he chooses, as you said. The chance to study in a foreign country for a year would be amazing. I've been to all 3 countries and my favourite place in all of them is probably Barcelona or Toulouse which is why I suggested those two. I wouldn't really call any of those countries exotic, but that's probably down to me being European and not North American? :P If I had to say one was more exotic I would say Greece. But really I don't know what the OP is looking for. He's not told us much. :)