Panama Canal & Latin America Cruise: Mexico, Costa Rica & Colombia

In addition to being home to a world-class zoo and aquarium, San Diego is a laid-back navy town that is the closest U.S. city to Mexico. Great Mexican/American cuisine, Spanish-inspired architecture and what some consider the best weather in North America, make San Diego a destination unto itself.

Located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico’s leading tourist destinations. Its unique combination of beautiful beaches, desert terrain and mountains are a nature lover’s delight. One of its most popular eco-attractions for tourists and sea lions alike is El Arco de Cabo San Lucas (or “Lands End, Cabo San Lucas”), a gorgeous rock formation found at Cabo’s southern tip. Renowned for its marine life, diving, and surfing, Cabo also features some of the best fishing on the Pacific Coast, while at night, the city turns into one of the world’s great party places—famous for celebrity sightings, fantastic restaurants and non-stop action at bars like Cabo Wabo and El Squid Roe.

Acapulco, a beach resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is set on a large bay backed by high-rises and the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. Made famous by the jet set in the 1950s and ’60s, it’s known for its high-energy nightlife, beaches and golf. From its iconic La Quebrada cliff, professional divers plunge 40m into a small ocean cove every day and night.

As Guatemala’s largest Pacific port, Puerto Quetzal is both an important cargo destination for the country and the main gateway to an array of outdoor activities and sightseeing adventures. Visit nearby Iztapa for tuna and marlin fishing, take a tour of a coffee or sugar cane plantation, or unwind at the beach in Balneario Likín, a popular Guatemalan resort town. But a definite highlight at this port is taking a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Antigua. Dating back to the 1500s, this stunning town nestled between volcanic peaks and located 4,500 feet above sea level, is renowned for its Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture, colonial churches and incredible views.

Located in southwest El Salvador, the Pacific coast town of Acajutla was founded in 1524 and is the country’s primary seaport. It’s also a gateway to canopy tours of the Apaneca forests, day trips to the Izalco Volcano and beautiful beaches like Los Cabanos, which is popular amongst surfers and divers. Follow the Route of the Flowers, which winds its way through picturesque small towns, and celebrates cultural events and cuisine, or visit Chalchuapa, home to the pre-Colombian archeological site of Tazumal. These Mayan ruins are believed to date back to AD 100, and are considered the best preserved in all of El Salvador.

With its coastline filled with beaches, islands, inlets and natural treasures, Puntarenas is a gateway to a myriad of outdoor attractions, including boat trips through the mangroves, canopy zip line tours, butterfly gardens, horseback riding, and sport fishing. Take a catamaran to the nearby Isla of Tortuga for its white sand beaches, snorkeling and swimming, go river rafting down the Corobici River, or explore the Mangrove Forest on the north side of the peninsula to see crocodiles, herons, and more. Be sure to take a stroll along the Paseo de la Turistas for shopping, souvenirs, local ceviche or a cold beverage, and pick up some Costa Rican coffee for the journey home.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena is an historic city undergoing a modern renaissance. Filled with legends, romance and splendor, the walled city features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and cultural sites. Marvel at the Castle of San Felipe de Barajas, the Palace of the Inquisition, and the Clock Tower; explore the Squares of Los Coches, Santo Domingo, and Centenario; visit the beaches of Islas del Rosario National Park; or simply relax at one of the city’s many open-air cafés, as horse-drawn carriages parade by. No matter what you do, you’ll be enchanted by Cartagena and its people.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena is an historic city undergoing a modern renaissance. Filled with legends, romance and splendor, the walled city features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and cultural sites. Marvel at the Castle of San Felipe de Barajas, the Palace of the Inquisition, and the Clock Tower; explore the Squares of Los Coches, Santo Domingo, and Centenario; visit the beaches of Islas del Rosario National Park; or simply relax at one of the city’s many open-air cafés, as horse-drawn carriages parade by. No matter what you do, you’ll be enchanted by Cartagena and its people.

Propelled by Latin rhythms, with a bold style all its own, Miami is a spicy melting pot of cultures. Immerse yourself in the colorful Art Deco district, vibrant nightlife, and beaches for sun-worshipers and water sport enthusiasts alike. Put some money on the horses at Hialeah Park, one of racings oldest and most prominent tracks, right next to a lake full of pink flamingos. Go adventuring in the Everglades, looking for ‘gators and manatees, canoeing through mangrove tunnels, or paddling a sea kayak through the “10,000 islands”. Flashy and full of life, it’s a great place to play.