America and Caribbean Discovery

Southampton, England

Funchal, Portugal

Formed by a volcanic eruption, Madeira lies in the Gulf Stream, about 500 miles due west of Casablanca. Today’s travellers come to Madeira for the varied and luxuriant scenery, from mountain slopes covered with vines to picturesque villages and a profusion of wild flowers. The natural beauty of the island has earned it many pseudonyms such as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, 'The Island of Eternal Springtime' and ‘God’s Botanical Gardens.’ Funchal, the capital of the Madeira archipelago, is backed by dramatic landscapes and picturesque coastal scenery, and home to the centuries-old Funchal Cathedral and the harbour-front São Tiago Fortress.  Set in the capital of Madeira archipelago, Funchal Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets lined by old houses, boutique shops and charming cafes.

St. Maarten, Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

The Dutch side is called Sint Maarten and is home to Philipsburg — the island’s capital, which is steeped with Old-World charm and laid back atmosphere, where cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-style buildings. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. Dubbed the ‘Jet Blast Beach’ and the world’s most extreme beach, Maho Beach offers not just beach basking and water adventures but also spectacular views of jets landing and departing from the island's Princess Juliana International Airport, set near the beachfront. Test your luck in the slot machines in Coliseum Princess Casino and get the chance to bag big prizes, and for history buffs, the ruins of 17th-century Fort Amsterdam are definitely worth the visit.

St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda

With its superb beaches, historical attractions and beautiful coral reefs, Antigua provides a host of diversions. The Caribbean island is known for the iconic 365 beaches, all with unspoiled white sand and surrounded by azure waters — one for each day all-year round! Antigua maintains its traditional West Indian character, with gingerbread-house style architecture, calypso music and carnival festivities. St. John’s has been the administrative capital since the island’s colonisation in 1632, and has been the seat of government since it gained independence in 1981. From the port, you can explore the colourful Redcliffe district, with its restored wooden houses, and Heritage Quay with its shopping mall and craft shops. The city has some fine examples of Colonial architecture, including the twin-towered cathedral, built in 1845 and considered one of the finest church buildings in the Caribbean.

St. George's, Grenada

Whilst the Caribbean islands are best known for its golden beaches and tropical sunshine, there’s more to Grenada than your typical Caribbean sunny escape! Its main island is dubbed the “Isle of Spice” and the “Caribbean Capital of Chocolate” for its large production of various spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon and mace crops.The Isle of Spice is a tropical gem of lush rain forests, white-sand beaches, secluded coves, exotic flowers, and enough locally grown spices to fill anyone's kitchen cabinet. St. George’s is Grenada’s quaint capital and main port of call, featuring an 18th-century fort that offers panoramic views of the island and St. George’s Bay. Grenada's Grand Anse Beach is one of the region's finest beaches, so be sure not to miss it!

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Port of Spain is the cosmopolitan capital and chief port of Trinidad and Tobago, loved for its multicultural Caribbean charm, homegrown calypso soundtrack, and the grand Trinidad and Tobago Carnival! Queen’s Park Savannah is the city’s expansive green area and one of the world’s largest roundabouts, serving as host to the annual Carnival festivities and a serene spot for relaxing in off season. Take a daytime stroll around the lush Royal Botanic Gardens, and by evening, enjoy the rhythm of steelpan music as you savour authentic Creole cuisine! The port city is also home to an interesting array of South American flora, as well as more than 400 species of birds, some of which can be seen if you visit the Asa Wright Nature Reserve!

Curaçao, Curaçao

Culture seekers will find their ideal escape in Curaçao, part of the windswept ABC Islands – where you can embrace Dutch heritage, under the Caribbean sun, as you explore the island’s pastel, colonial architecture and delightful museums. Enjoy the sunny weather even during the rainy season, with steady wind conditions ensuring great kitesurfing and windsurfing experiences! One of the island’s highlights is the Queen Emma Bridge, also called the “Swinging Old Lady,” which is an astounding floating bridge that occasionally swings open to let ships pass through and leave the bay – a spectacle that you can’t miss!

Cartagena, Colombia

Situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is one of the most colourful and romantic cities in the world. Its magnificent city walls and fortresses, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enclose a well-restored Old Town (the Ciudad Amurallada, or walled city) with plazas, churches, museums, and shops that have made it a lively coastal vacation spot for locals and tourists alike. New hotels and restaurants make the walled city a desirable place to stay, and the formerly down-at-the-heels Getsemaní neighbourhood attracts those seeking a bohemian buzz. The historic centre is a small section of Cartagena; many hotels are in the Bocagrande district, an elongated peninsula where high-rise hotels overlook a long, grey-sand beach. For a day of buzz and life, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza Santo Domingo, where local artists showcase their talents!

Colón, Panama

The provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal's Atlantic entrance, is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus. Colon was rebuilt in the architectural style then popular in France, evidenced by the pastel-coloured houses and buildings. In addition to its importance as a port, Colon boasts the world’s second largest duty-free zone, known as Zona Libre, which is contained in a huge fortress-like, walled-off area with giant international stores. Cristobal Pier, Colón’s cruise departure terminal, is a lovely shopping area with a charming flea market that stretches along the pier.

Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

Christopher Columbus became Costa Rica's first tourist when he landed on this stretch of coast in 1502 during his fourth and final voyage to the New World. Costa Rica is also abundantly rich in natural beauty, managing to pack beaches, volcanoes, rain forests, and diverse animal life into an area the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Meet and engage with the Afro-Costa Rican community in Puerto Limón. This port city has an interesting history evident in the traditional streets and structures found in the historic centre. Get ready for an adventure-filled yet slow-moving cruise through the beautiful Tortuguero Canals. Dubbed as Costa Rica’s Amazon, these meandering canals offer incredible wildlife viewing, such as rare green turtles wading on the shores and colourful toucans flying freely overhead. On days that you’d rather spend at a leisurely pace, you can visit the picturesque recreation ground near the sea, Vargas Park. Catch sight of some historical statues, as well as sloths and owls clinging on the huge palm trees surrounding the waterfront park. A day visit is short, but time enough for a quick sample.

Roatan (Bay Islands), Honduras

Sleeping peacefully on the island of Roatan is West Bay Beach, a gorgeous beach with shallow crystal-clear waters and fine sand. Here, you can enjoy a plethora of water-based activities, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, parasailing, deep sea fishing, and paddle-boarding. Roatan’s main claim of fame is its outstanding coral reef system. One of the main points of attraction in West Bay is the Coral Reef Explorer, also called the Glass Bottom Boat. This specifically-designed boat submerges deep into the waters, allowing tourists to glimpse at the staggering coral reefs in the depths of the Bay Islands, even without a professional scuba diving certification.

Costa Maya, Mexico

Costa Maya is a man-made oasis, complete with Mayan temples, sandy beaches, resorts and those cute little cocktails with the umbrella in. Although often overshadowed by the more popular Chichen Itza or Tulum, Chachoben ruins is an impressive Mayan site worth exploring, offering a glimpse into the Mayan culture and stories about a great civilization that once lived and thrived in Mexico. Tubing in the sparkling blue waters of Bacalar Lagoon is also a note-worthy experience, and why not indulge in a complete mind and body detox in an authentic Mayan sauna after an action-packed day?

Cozumel, Mexico

Dubbed a diver’s paradise, Cozumel is famed for its incredible scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the World’s second largest barrier reef system, straddles the coast of Cozumel, making it a world-class dive destination! This underdeveloped Mexican gem offers crystal-clear waters, home to an impressive abundance of marine life along with shallow coral reefs. When you’re not chasing adventure deep in the sea or lazing on the shores, why not wander around downtown San Miguel and admire the brightly-coloured buildings lining its quaint streets? Cozumel is a postcard-perfect, mostly undeveloped Mexican island that once served as a refuge for infamous pirates, Long John Silver and Henry Morgan! You can learn about the region’s infamous pirate history in the Cozumel Museum.

Galveston, Texas, United States

Located 50 miles from the better known Houston, the city of Galveston is very different, both in terms of atmosphere and attractions. This island city is idyllically situated on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Moody Gardens is probably the biggest attraction here, offering families the chance to discover and learn about fauna and flora together whilst having fun. The refurbished Galveston Island Historic Pier is also a great place to spend some time with the family, lined with amusement rides and restaurants. For thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts, the bird-rich Galveston Island State Park is the place to be, complete with hiking trails, kayak launches, and fishing spots. 

Galveston, Texas, United States

Located 50 miles from the better known Houston, the city of Galveston is very different, both in terms of atmosphere and attractions. This island city is idyllically situated on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Moody Gardens is probably the biggest attraction here, offering families the chance to discover and learn about fauna and flora together whilst having fun. The refurbished Galveston Island Historic Pier is also a great place to spend some time with the family, lined with amusement rides and restaurants. For thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts, the bird-rich Galveston Island State Park is the place to be, complete with hiking trails, kayak launches, and fishing spots. 

Miami, Florida, United States

Miami is one of the world’s most popular holiday spots, where endless sunshine, sparkling waterways, lush parks and stunning beaches await. Nestled along the south-eastern tip of Florida, Miami holds the prestigious title of the "Cruise Capital of the World," serving as the embarkation point for countless voyages across the Caribbean and beyond! It has so much to offer; from its countless beach areas, to culture and museums, from spa and shopping days out, to endless Cuban restaurants and cafes. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine sands, exploring eclectic neighbourhoods, or savouring culinary delights, Miami is a multicultural city that promises an unforgettable experience.

Orlando (Port Canaveral), United States

Nicknamed the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World,’ Orlando offers endless adventure and entertainment! Bring out the child in you as you witness the magic and fun unfold in Walt Disney World, EPCOT Universal Orlando and more! The bustling port city is also widely known for the futuristic Kennedy Space Center, many beautiful beaches and the Brevard Zoo. Whilst here, why not head to fun-filled International Drive or have fun under the sun at Cocoa Beach?

Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas

Freeport is the main city and tourist centre on Grand Bahama Island. With surroundings filled with beautiful sights and opportunities for exciting activities, Freeport should have something of interest for most visitors. Most notable attractions of the area include the Garden of the Groves, a 12-acre botanical garden, and Port Lacuya Marketplace.

Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos Islands

Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

Amber Cove is Carnival Cruise Line’s exclusive island in the heart of the Dominican Republic. This island paradise packs a punch of fun activities and exciting amenities, from towering slides and lazy rivers to ziplines and watersports! With endless sunshine and crystal-clear waters beyond what the eyes can see, this island is truly a paradise for every sun-seeker and beach enthusiast. Gear up for an ATV expedition, take a helicopter tour, or why not zipline through the lush rainforest  for the thrills? Various water activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling – and even swimming with dolphins are also more than possible!

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

For a nature break, head to Ocho Rios, which was transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a busy resort with a cruise ship harbour, majestic falls and natural limestone sinkhole. One of the main attractions in this Jamaican town is the Dunn’s River Falls – these terraced waterfalls appear like giant stairs where cascades of water flow through. Climbing to the top of the falls is an unmissable experience, with small lagoons shaded by low-hanging trees offering a refreshing timeout from the long hike. Don't miss out on taking the Nine Mile Tour, which includes a scenic drive through the countryside, winding uphill through the hillside rural villages and offering breathtaking sceneries in Ocho Rios!

Falmouth, Jamaica

Nestled between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay on the island’s north shore, you’ll find Falmouth – a busy cruise port and well-preserved Georgian town adorned with dense forests, emerald-coloured rivers and Georgian architecture. This town is steeped with fascinating history, evidenced by the intriguing historical buildings that carry a notorious past with them that narrates the tale of slavery and victory. Visit Jamaica’s Great Houses, including the Rose Hall Great House and Good Hope Great House, to learn about the country’s rich history. You can also take a guided tour of the town, as you walk past the Old-World clock tower at Albert George Market, St. Peter’s Anglican Church and the Georgian-style courthouse!

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Tortola is the largest of this roughly 40-island chain, home to several stunning beaches including Cane Garden Bay and Smuggler’s Cove. The bustling capital of the British Virgin Islands looks out over Road Harbour. It takes only an hour or so to stroll down Main Street and along the waterfront, checking out the traditional West Indian buildings painted in pastel colours and with corrugated-tin roofs, bright shutters, and delicate fretwork trim. Sage National Park is a sprawling protected park, where you’ll find the highest peak in the British Virgin Islands, which it was named after. The Painkiller is the local specialty drink of the British Virgin Islands. Sample this popular rum-based cocktail at Pusser’s Road Town Pub in Tortola — a historic pub with a Victorian-themed interior.

Saint Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis

Vast, brilliant green fields of sugarcane run to the shore of St. Kitts. Whether it’s climbing the mountain top, taking a scenic and relaxing train ride or exploring the underwater world — there’s something for every kind of traveller in the Caribbean island. Basseterre is the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis, where lush rainforests and pristine beaches create a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers! The best place to start uncovering Kitian history is at the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress and National Park, where you’ll find an old military fort, moat and cannon backed by the endless blues of the Caribbean. One of the most unmissable experiences in St. Kitts is taking the scenic train ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, that circumnavigates the island’s coastline on routes that once transported sugar cane from the plantations to the mills.

Guadeloupe, Guadeloupe

Castries, Saint Lucia

The typical image of a lush tropical paradise comes to life on the friendly island of Saint Lucia. Despite its small size – just 27 miles long and 14 miles wide – Saint Lucia is rich in natural splendour with dense emerald rainforest, banana plantations and orchards of coconut, mango and papaya trees. The twin peaks of the Pitons, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rise above the island and are ubiquitous even from miles away. Look out for unusual birds with brilliant plumage such as the Saint Lucia parrot, see a surprising diversity of exotic flora and enjoy the warm hospitality of the islanders in the small villages and open-air markets. Drop by Castries Market, the island’s largest local food and flea market right across the harbour, selling a variety of items from handcrafts to homegrown produce and local delicacies!

Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago

Together, the islands of Trinidad and Tobago make up a state and as such are an independent member of the British Commonwealth. Located just off the coast of Venezuela, both islands are excellent getaways offering different attractions. While Trinidad pulses with life, the smaller and unspoiled island of Tobago is the place for a restful and relaxing holiday. Most of its appeal lies in the beautiful scenery and the availability of outdoor activities. The tourist area is concentrated on the southwestern end, about six miles from the island’s capital of Scarborough. Scarborough features interesting Botanic Gardens, a few historical buildings and the well-maintained Fort King George, located above the town. The primary appeal, however, lies without doubt in the great outdoors - swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing, golfing, playing tennis or simply relaxing on Tobago's glorious beaches.

Bridgetown, Barbados

At just 21-miles long and 14-miles wide, Barbados is the most easterly island in the Caribbean and is brimming with things to do. Steeped in history and complete with the architecture to match, get ready to uncover its wonderfully laid-back West Indian ambiance! Enjoy surfing, snorkelling and turtle-spotting in azure waters and you must explore subterranean Harrison’s cave. In the capital, Bridgetown — the surroundings are unmistakably Caribbean but the ambience is decidedly British. Located beside the island’s only natural harbour, the capital of Barbados combines modern and colonial architecture with glorious palm tree-lined beaches and a number of historical attractions. Experience the relaxed culture of the city renowned for its British-style parliament buildings and vibrant beach life, and seek out the Anglican church and the 19th-century Barbados Garrison.

Southampton, England