Western Caribbean

First a sponge-fishing center for Greek immigrants and later a cradle for a large Cuban-exile population, Tampa has evolved into a bustling metropolis on the more laid-back Gulf Coast of Florida. Museums, amusement parks like Busch Gardens, and even tobacco emporiums are just some of the more popular attractions in the area.

The Conquistadors first saw Mexico from the shores of Cozumel while searching for gold. Today, visitors to the island continue to seek out gold and silver jewelry in the shops of San Miguel while having a great time in its many local bars and restaurants. Plus, the waters around Cozumel’s sheltered coral reefs make this one of the best snorkeling areas in the world.

When you’re in Belize, don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of El Castillo. This 135-foot structure is one of the tallest Mayan structures in Belize. From the top, you can see the lush rainforest of Peten, the Mayan Mountains and even across the border into Guatemala. Keep your eyes open for flocks of toucans and parrots in the trees below you.

In this port city just to the south of Cancun and Cozumel, you’ll find a variety of shore excursions available that can take you to the interior of Mexico to explore Mayan ruins, ancient forts and villages, or storybook lagoons and beaches for aquatic recreation.

Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands, located approximately thirty-five miles north of Honduras. It has become one of the premier diving destinations in all the world. Numerous wrecks, a fringing coral reef and bountiful marine life are the primary attractions. That’s not to say things are not fantastic on shore. Roatán is also blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in all of creation.

In the 18th century, when Jamaican sugar fueled the rum trade, Falmouth was one of the world’s busiest ports. Today, only palm trees quietly move to the rhythms of sea breezes that come in from the Caribbean, creating an idyllic backdrop for those who want to relax on the beach or go exploring through the island’s enticing past.

Grand Cayman is one of a group of three magnificent tropical islands Christopher Columbus called “Las Tortugas” (the turtles) for the sea creatures he found in the ocean water. The designation did not endure, however, for on later maps the islands were labeled the Caimanau, the Carib Indian word for “crocodile.” The name “Caimanas” refers inaccurately to the iguanas native to the islands, which were perhaps at one point mistaken for crocodiles. Among other attractions, visitors to the island will enjoy learning about the turtles, visiting the town of Hell, exploring Seven-Mile Beach and enjoying the undersea world.

First a sponge-fishing center for Greek immigrants and later a cradle for a large Cuban-exile population, Tampa has evolved into a bustling metropolis on the more laid-back Gulf Coast of Florida. Museums, amusement parks like Busch Gardens, and even tobacco emporiums are just some of the more popular attractions in the area.