Southern Caribbean

One of the largest islands in the Eastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico’s landscape encompasses mountains, underground caves, coral reefs, white-sand beaches and an incredibly massive rain forest that supplies fresh water to most of the island. At the same time San Juan, the capital of the commonwealth, is a big city with a bustling business district, glitzy resorts and casinos, as well as one of the most stunning examples of colonial life in the Western world.

Besides being one of the most scenic islands in the Caribbean, Tortola offers a decidedly cultural and historical side. Visitors who can pry themselves away from its picture-perfect beaches frequently visit the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, where they find an extensive collection of the island’s ancient plantation artifacts.

Whether you’re a history buff or just want to take in the scenery, be sure to visit the 350-year-old estate, Romney Manor, once owned by a British earl. The beautiful grounds include magnificent gardens, exotic plants and an amazing African Saman tree, which covers half an acre and is believed to be as old as the estate itself.

Access the largely untouched interior of Dominica via an extensive network of nature and hiking trails, which will take you on an odyssey through the lush landscape past waterfalls, clear-running streams, and bubbling hot springs. If you’d prefer swimming to hiking, try the world-class scuba diving.

See the beautiful coastline of St. Lucia from the deck of a catamaran. You’ll have an unbeatable view of the scenery and get an exhilarating ride, too.

For the ultimate day of fun-in-the-sun Barbados-style, cruise on the MV Harbour to a spectacular sandy beach. Snorkel on reefs teeming with tropical fish. Enjoy the rope swing, sun tanning or walking on the beach. Cruise back along the scenic coast while dancing the calypso or limbo, or just relax on deck.

One of the largest islands in the Eastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico’s landscape encompasses mountains, underground caves, coral reefs, white-sand beaches and an incredibly massive rain forest that supplies fresh water to most of the island. At the same time San Juan, the capital of the commonwealth, is a big city with a bustling business district, glitzy resorts and casinos, as well as one of the most stunning examples of colonial life in the Western world.