The islands of the eastern Caribbean are scattered like sparkling pebbles across the shimmering blue seas of one of the world's finest tropical destinations.
A favorite among them are The Islands of the Bahamas, an archipelago boasting more than 800 sun- and sand-swept islands. Nassau, the nation's capital, perches on a protected harbor, once the hangout of pirates and other buccaneers. Now a historical jewel, Nassau is a showcase of stately cathedral, colonial mansions and fascinating forts. Don't miss bustling Bay Street or the view from ... READ MORE
The islands of the eastern Caribbean are scattered like sparkling pebbles across the shimmering blue seas of one of the world's finest tropical destinations.
A favorite among them are The Islands of the Bahamas, an archipelago boasting more than 800 sun- and sand-swept islands. Nassau, the nation's capital, perches on a protected harbor, once the hangout of pirates and other buccaneers. Now a historical jewel, Nassau is a showcase of stately cathedral, colonial mansions and fascinating forts. Don't miss bustling Bay Street or the view from Queen's Staircase.
A U.S. commonwealth since 1952, once Spanish-ruled Puerto Rico is now a melting pot of cultures—native Indian (Taino), Spanish, North American and African, among them. The island is known for its intriguingly diverse food, architecture, arts, language and music (it's the home of salsa, of course!).
A trip to the capital city of San Juan, founded in 1521, isn't complete without a visit to Old San Juan, where you can wander cobblestone streets surrounded by restored colonial buildings. The Plaza de San Juan is a favorite meeting place, and the restored El Morro is a fascinating, six-level fortress open daily.
Friendly faces and quick smiles are plentiful in the culturally rich U.S. Virgin Islands, where you'll find ethnic roots in Africa, England, Holland, Denmark, Spain, France, India and the U.S. This unique blend of people and pasts makes for experiences as diverse as the landscape.
On St. Thomas, V.I., travel the winding roads to Drake's seat, where Sir Francis Drake himself once surveyed his fleet. Just to the west is MountainTop, a unique shopping center offering incredible vistas from 1,500 feet above sea level. At Paradise Point, a 700-foot tramway provides breathtaking views over Charlotte Amalie Harbor and beyond.
Natural beauty abounds on St. John, V.I., the smallest of the islands and, some say, the loveliest. Two-thirds of the island is U.S. national park land, and beaches are flawless here. Woodland trails lead you to incredible vantage points above sand and sea. Cruz Bay is the center of activity, and the hot spot for shopping, dining and entertainment.
"The fairest land under heaven" is how Christopher Columbus described the Dominican Republic. The coral-rimmed island sports some of the world's best beaches as well as the highest mountain range in the Caribbean.
The resort village of Casa de Campo has become a regular stop for cruise passengers traveling through the Eastern Caribbean. A must-see is Altos de Chavon, a recreated Mediterranean village atop a cliff with incredible views of native forest. The Marina, modeled after Italy's Portofino, boasts a yacht marina and plaza lined with sidewalk cafes and shops. Casa de Campo is a top stop for golfers eager to play one of the Caribbean's top courses, "Teeth of the Dog."
