Sea, Sun & Salsa

Miami, Florida

The party and cruise capital of the word, Miami is a bright,
brash, playground city that 15.5 million tourists flock to every
year. The Roaring Twenties saw this town bloom into a seaside
capital, blessed with a legacy of Art Deco architecture, diverse
cultures, and natural wonders enough to satisfy any
holiday-goer.

Being the gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America, Miami has
a large Cuban presence, evident in the vibrant neighbourhood of
. Art lovers can meander around the art districts like
Wynwood and the Coconut Grove, while others can lounge on the miles
of sandy beaches. For families there are kid-friendly attractions
like the
and Metrozoo. The nightlife is sophisticated and
varied. The city also gives easy access to Florida's popular Gold
Coast resorts and attractions, as well as the natural wonder of the

.

It is no wonder Miami is America's favourite holiday destination
and the hub of a vibrant cruise ship industry, its port constantly
jammed with sleek passenger liners. North of the city, the miles of
beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast are hemmed in by southeast
Florida's major tourist towns: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano
Beach, and Palm Beach.

Cruising the Caribbean Sea

Belize City

In Belize nearly all journeys begin and end in Belize City, the
country's biggest urban enclave and port of entry, though in truth
it's not a very enticing tourist destination in itself. Belize City
sits in a swamp that stretches across Haulover Creek at the mouth
of the Belize River, criss-crossed with narrow streets and rather
smelly canals which are lined with a jolly jumble of buildings,
some little more than dilapidated shacks and others attempts at
rather pretentious modern stores. In between are some pretty wooden
houses and colonial landmark buildings.

The city has clung tenaciously to its muddy roots since it was
abandoned as a Mayan fishing camp in the 1600s and taken over by
pirates and buccaneers as a logging camp. Late in the 17th century,
the Spanish cut down the mahogany upriver, floated the logs
downstream and exported them from the motley little encampment at
the river mouth. Later the British established Belize Town, which
began the city's formal, rather tragic, passage into modern times.
Three times devastated by fires, scourged by disease epidemics,
flattened by hurricanes and tidal waves, the city somehow survived.
Today, in the new millennium, it subsists on tourism and fishing,
remaining the cultural, commercial, and social centre of Belize
despite the capital having been moved to Belmopan in 1969.

Most visitors to Belize City come ashore on tenders from dozens
of luxury cruise liners that include the city in their itineraries,
mainly to allow passengers to take adventure excursions to see and
experience the wonderful natural attractions of the interior and
coastline of Belize. Cruise passengers are welcomed at the
showpiece Belize Tourism Village, where courtyards and attractive
buildings contain a variety of restaurants, souvenir shops, craft
stalls, and other facilities to cater for their needs. It is the
departure point for numerous land and marine tours.

Independent visitors to Belize also generally start their
exploration of the country in Belize City, and can find some sights
of interest to fill a few days layover in the town, including the
world's only manually operated swing bridge, some colonial
architectural treasures such as the Paslow Building, the novel St
John's Cathedral built by slaves from bricks brought as ballast in
ships from Europe, and the art gallery at the Bliss Institute,
bequeathed to the city by British Baron, Henry Bliss, who died on
his yacht in the harbour. Also well worth a visit are the Maritime
Museum and Museum of Belize.

Harvest Caye

Located in the beautiful country of Belize, Harvest Caye is a true tropical paradise. This stunning island destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and a touch of luxury.

Harvest Caye is a private island developed by Norwegian Cruise Line, catering primarily to cruise ship passengers. The island is situated just a short distance off the coast of Placencia, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by sea. With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical foliage, Harvest Caye is a postcard-perfect destination.

Upon arrival on the island, visitors will find an array of amenities and facilities designed to enhance their stay. The island features a large marina that can accommodate several cruise ships at once, eliminating the need for tenders and allowing passengers to step directly onto the island. The marina also offers a variety of water sports activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.

For those seeking ultimate relaxation, Harvest Caye boasts an expansive beach area where visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the warm Caribbean sea, or simply indulge in a tranquil beachside massage. The island also features several luxurious pool areas with cabanas available for rent, providing a glamorous setting for a day of leisure.

Beyond its pristine beaches and inviting waters, Harvest Caye offers a range of exciting activities and attractions to suit every taste. One of the island's main highlights is its massive pool complex, complete with a swim-up bar and a thrilling 1,470-foot-long zip line that stretches across the entire island. Adventurous travelers can embark on an exhilarating zip line tour, soaring high above the jungle canopy and taking in breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Harvest Caye's eco-friendly initiatives, which include a wildlife and conservation program. Visitors can explore a nature center that features educational exhibits and a butterfly house, allowing them to learn about the local flora and fauna and interact with various species of butterflies. Guided tours through the island's nature trails offer the opportunity to observe and learn about the diverse wildlife that calls Harvest Caye home.

When it comes to dining and shopping, Harvest Caye offers a range of options to cater to every palate and preference. The island features a selection of restaurants and bars, serving a variety of cuisines and refreshing cocktails. Visitors can savor delicious Belizean dishes, fresh seafood, and international favorites. The island also boasts a shopping village where visitors can browse for unique souvenirs, local arts and crafts, and designer goods.

For those seeking a cultural experience, Harvest Caye offers excursions to mainland Belize, allowing visitors to explore the country's rich history and natural wonders. The nearby Mayan ruins of Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun provide a fascinating glimpse into Belize's ancient past, while the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary offers the chance to spot exotic wildlife, such as jaguars and howler monkeys, in their natural habitat.

In conclusion, Harvest Caye is a tropical oasis that combines natural beauty with modern amenities. Whether you're seeking relaxation, thrilling adventures, or a cultural experience, this private island paradise offers something for everyone. From its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to its thrilling zip line and eco-friendly initiatives, Harvest Caye is a destination that will leave visitors with memories to last a lifetime.

Santo Tomás de Castilla

Santo Tomás de Castilla is a bustling port town located on the Gulf of Honduras in Guatemala. It serves as a gateway to the beautiful region of Izabal and is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists alike. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Santo Tomás de Castilla has plenty to offer for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

One of the main attractions of Santo Tomás de Castilla is its close proximity to the stunning Lake Izabal. The largest lake in Guatemala, Lake Izabal is surrounded by lush tropical rainforests and is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake's picturesque coves and the wildlife-rich jungle that surrounds it. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching bass, snook, and tarpon, which are abundant in the lake.

Another must-visit attraction in Santo Tomás de Castilla is the Castillo de San Felipe, a historical fortress located near the town. Built in the 17th century by the Spanish colonialists, the castle played a crucial role in protecting the region from pirate attacks. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved castle and enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the town of Santo Tomás de Castilla.

For those interested in learning about the local culture and history, a visit to the nearby town of Livingston is highly recommended. This charming Garifuna community is known for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and traditional music and dance. Visitors can sample delicious Garifuna cuisine, browse local handicrafts, and immerse themselves in the unique traditions of the Garifuna people.

Santo Tomás de Castilla is also an excellent destination for adventure enthusiasts. The nearby national parks and protected areas offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and zip-lining. One of the most popular destinations for hiking is the Rio Dulce Natural Monument, a stunning area with lush vegetation, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.

Food lovers will also be delighted by the culinary scene in Santo Tomás de Castilla. The town is known for its variety of fresh seafood, from succulent shrimp and lobster to flavorful fish tacos. Visitors can enjoy excellent seafood dishes at local restaurants, often accompanied by live music and a lively atmosphere.

In terms of accommodations, Santo Tomás de Castilla offers a range of options to suit every budget. From cozy guesthouses to luxury eco-lodges, there is something for everyone. Many of the accommodations are located close to the waterfront, allowing guests to enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Overall, Santo Tomás de Castilla is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, it offers a unique and authentic experience for travelers looking to explore the untamed beauty of Guatemala. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply relaxing by the beach, Santo Tomás de Castilla has something for everyone.

Cozumel

Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, opposite Playa del Carmen, and close to the site of the ancient Mayan city of Tulum. The island's main town is San Miguel de Cozumel. The island is covered with mangrove forest and has a wide variety of fauna, including many species of birds, lizards, and fish.

Cozumel is a popular tourist destination, especially for scuba diving and snorkeling. The clear waters around the island attract many visitors from all over the world. There are many dive sites around the island, with something to suit all levels of experience. The most popular dive sites are the Palancar Caves, the Columbia Reef, and the Paradise Reef.

The island is also a popular destination for cruise ships. Cruise ship passengers often take excursions to the island, to visit the town of San Miguel, or to go on one of the many organized tours.

The island has a rich history. It was inhabited by the Maya people for centuries, and there are many Maya ruins on the island. The most famous Maya ruin on the island is the Temple of the Sun, which is located in the town of San Miguel.

Cozumel was also the site of a major battle in the Mexican-American War, known as the Battle of Cozumel. This was a brief but bloody battle, which resulted in the death of over 200 American soldiers.

The island has a tropical climate, with warm weather all year round. The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and most pleasant.

Cruising the Florida Straits

Miami, Florida

The party and cruise capital of the word, Miami is a bright,
brash, playground city that 15.5 million tourists flock to every
year. The Roaring Twenties saw this town bloom into a seaside
capital, blessed with a legacy of Art Deco architecture, diverse
cultures, and natural wonders enough to satisfy any
holiday-goer.

Being the gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America, Miami has
a large Cuban presence, evident in the vibrant neighbourhood of
. Art lovers can meander around the art districts like
Wynwood and the Coconut Grove, while others can lounge on the miles
of sandy beaches. For families there are kid-friendly attractions
like the
and Metrozoo. The nightlife is sophisticated and
varied. The city also gives easy access to Florida's popular Gold
Coast resorts and attractions, as well as the natural wonder of the

.

It is no wonder Miami is America's favourite holiday destination
and the hub of a vibrant cruise ship industry, its port constantly
jammed with sleek passenger liners. North of the city, the miles of
beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast are hemmed in by southeast
Florida's major tourist towns: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano
Beach, and Palm Beach.