Texans flock to sandy barrier isles like Galveston Island to frolic in the warm waters of the Gulf. You could do the same, or make a visit to the stately homes that grace the island. Or go on a mission to mainland Houston, to tour the impressive NASA Space Center.
A place of ultimate relaxation, Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") was the very first private island bought for exclusive use by a cruise line, and as such it maintains its status at the forefront of secluded areas. It is located 65 miles north of Nassau and is one of the 700 islands in the Bahamas. On this island there are 2400 acres of uninhabited land that erupts with natural beauty; the lush wooded land provides an ecological refuge for plants and wildlife. Even with the other passengers, there are a wealth of opportunities for privacy, whether taking an unguided hike to the historic lighthouse, sipping drinks under coconut palms in the hammocks, or finding your own untouched piece of paradise. This cay is a true rest and relaxation destination.
St. John's, Antigua is one of the oldest trading posts in the Caribbean Sea. It is a mixture of restored buildings that date back to the 1600s and some more modern buildings. One of the great things about St. John's is that most of the sights are within walking distance; so go explore the town as soon as you disembark. As you take a stroll along the streets lining the wharf, you will notice vendors hawking everything from clothing to local crafts, artwork, and jewelry. The Public Market is arrayed with an assortment of tropical fruits that you may not recognize. If you are up for a little bit adventure, sample something that appeals to you. Just make sure to ask if it needs any preparation first.
Dutch St. Maarten is a great place to stop just to shop. Its capital is Philipsburg and fills a narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond. It is a bustling center of international trade with lively shopping streets, cafes, and hotels. Strangely enough it has two main streets called Front Street and Back Street.
On Front Street, which is the main thoroughfare, duty-free shops line the road as far as the eye can see. These duty-free shops offer everything from Italian leather goods and Japanese cameras to native crafts. Don't be afraid to venture the alleyways that will lead you to arcades and courtyards filled with flowers.
The Courthouse is the most prominent landmark on Front Street. It is a grand white wooden structure topped with a cupola built in 1793. Front Street also includes the Simartin Museum so that visitors can get and excellent introduction to local St. Maartin history. There are also historical forts that are monuments to Philipsburg's strategic importance in St. Maarten's history.
Philipsburg has not been left behind in the time, however. It has combined its historical legacy with 20th century excitement. Since its waterfront has become a popular stop for cruise ships, the shore of this town is covered with restaurants, cafes and nightclubs that offer entertainment well into the night.
The fortress of El Morro guards the harbor against long-gone Sir Francis Drake and his British privateers. The colorful streets of Old San Juan retain the Latin flavor of its seafaring past, when this was the heart of the Spanish Main. Sample the fiery rum made here, or indulge in an icy treat made from fresh tropical fruit and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.
Whether for family fun, historical sight-seeing, sports, or leisurely activity, Puerto Plata will fulfill everyone's desires to the hilt!
Survey the neatly shuttered shops for bargains, or the twisted rock formations known as "Hell." But there's nothing hellish about the white-sand heaven of Seven Mile Beach. Sample the rum distilled here and be sure to visit the world's only sea turtle farm.
Sitting just off the gorgeous Yucatan coast, Cozumel revels in its mythic white-sand beaches and world-class coral reefs. Yet Cozumel is also the last stronghold of the Mayas, who settled the island in 300 A.D. Residents still speak Maya, and sometimes wear traditional Mayan clothing. Nearby stand the great pyramids and temples of their ancestors.
Texans flock to sandy barrier isles like Galveston Island to frolic in the warm waters of the Gulf. You could do the same, or make a visit to the stately homes that grace the island. Or go on a mission to mainland Houston, to tour the impressive NASA Space Center.