Southern Caribbean: Cabo Rojo & Abc Islands

Miami is a city of perpetual reinvention — the Art Deco jewel of South Beach giving way to the street-art murals of Wynwood, the Cuban rhythms of Calle Ocho, and the glass-and-steel towers of a skyline that has redrawn itself every decade since Julia Tuttle convinced Henry Flagler to extend his railroad south in 1896. Must-dos include strolling the pastel-fronted Ocean Drive at dusk and exploring the world-class collections at the Pérez Art Museum Miami overlooking Biscayne Bay. November through April delivers idyllic weather — warm and dry — while summer brings heat, humidity, and hurricane risk. Miami handles cruise departures elegantly, with the Port of Miami a short taxi ride from the best neighbourhoods.

Punta del Este is Uruguay's most glamorous coastal resort, a slender peninsula between the Río de la Plata estuary and the open Atlantic, renowned for pristine beaches, world-class *asado* dining, and the iconic *La Mano* sculpture. Visitors should not miss a wood-fired feast at a traditional *parrilla* and a day trip to the UNESCO-listed cobblestone streets of Colonia del Sacramento. The best season to visit is December through March, when the Southern Hemisphere summer brings warm temperatures, vibrant cultural events, and the full energy of South America's most elegant seaside retreat.

Bonaire, the shore-diving capital of the world, surrounds itself with 86 marked dive sites along a coastline designated as a marine park since 1979, offering crystal-clear waters and some of the Caribbean's healthiest coral reefs. Must-dos include snorkelling the legendary Town Pier, visiting the flamingo sanctuary at the pink salt flats, and tasting kabritu stobá goat stew in Kralendijk. Year-round sunshine and constant trade winds make any season excellent, with peak water clarity from April through November.

Curaçao is a culturally rich Caribbean island with the UNESCO-listed Willemstad waterfront, whose colorful Dutch colonial buildings are among the most photographed in the hemisphere. Must-dos include crossing the Queen Emma pontoon bridge, visiting the Kura Hulanda slavery museum, and tasting keshi yená cheese dish and genuine Curaçao liqueur. Year-round warmth near 28°C and a position below the hurricane belt make it a reliable destination.

Aruba, delivers the Caribbean at its most authentic—stunning waters, vibrant culture, and cuisine that blends African, European, and indigenous traditions into something boldly distinctive. Don't miss the local food scene and the exceptional snorkeling. Best experienced December through April, during the dry season when skies are clearest and seas are calmest. Cruise lines including Holland America Line feature this port on their most compelling itineraries. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the port rewards exploration at every pace and in every direction.

Mahogany Bay on Roatán offers world-class snorkelling and diving on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, with pristine coral formations, eagle rays, and sea turtles just offshore. Essential experiences include the reef at West Bay Beach, traditional Garifuna cuisine, and the Magical Flying Beach Chair ride over the treetops. February through August provides the driest weather and clearest underwater visibility.

Cabo Rojo is the Dominican Republic's unspoiled southwestern gateway, offering access to the pristine Bahía de las Águilas — one of the Caribbean's most beautiful undeveloped beaches — and the biodiversity-rich Jaragua National Park. Must-do experiences include the boat trip to Bahía de las Águilas, snorkelling the protected reef, and tasting fresh-grilled fish from local fishermen. December through April provides the driest and most comfortable weather.

Half Moon Cay, a private island paradise in the Bahamas, is renowned for its stunning beaches and serene atmosphere. Must-do experiences include savoring local delicacies like conch fritters and exploring the vibrant markets. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is pleasantly warm and inviting.

Miami is a city of perpetual reinvention — the Art Deco jewel of South Beach giving way to the street-art murals of Wynwood, the Cuban rhythms of Calle Ocho, and the glass-and-steel towers of a skyline that has redrawn itself every decade since Julia Tuttle convinced Henry Flagler to extend his railroad south in 1896. Must-dos include strolling the pastel-fronted Ocean Drive at dusk and exploring the world-class collections at the Pérez Art Museum Miami overlooking Biscayne Bay. November through April delivers idyllic weather — warm and dry — while summer brings heat, humidity, and hurricane risk. Miami handles cruise departures elegantly, with the Port of Miami a short taxi ride from the best neighbourhoods.