Caribbean: Dominican Republic & San Juan

Founded in 1521, San Juan's picturesque cobblestone streets, plazas and chapels reflect its Spanish heritage. But the second oldest city in the Americas also boasts fine beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountainsides, imposing forts and a lovely tropical climate. Looking for a cruise to San Juan? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises and read all about why you should cruise from San Juan.

With an area of only 37 square miles, the island of St. Maarten is the smallest landmass in the world to be divided between two governments. The southern Dutch half offers casinos, duty-free shopping and island culture. The French half is all subdued sophistication. Looking for a cruise to St. Maarten? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises.

Discovered by Christopher Columbus himself in 1493, this exotic, peaceful island is home to both towering mahogany trees and white-sand beaches. The region offers a challenging hike that extends 1,780 feet up Sage Mountain. A great spot for great birdwatching and breathtaking views of Tortola and neighboring islands. Looking for a cruise to Tortola? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises.

Puerto Plata (or officially known as San Felipe de Puerto Plata) is the ninth largest city in the Dominican Republic and the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. For spectacular city views, take a ride up the Pico Isabel de Torres mountain which stands over 2,600 feet high. History buff? Visit Fortaleza San Felipe, which was built in the 16th century and served as a prison under the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. Or head to the Amber Museum, a museum filled with a unique collection of valuable Dominican amber which is semiprecious tree sap that has hardened for millions of years capturing many fossils of plant and insect life.

Founded in 1681 by Bermuda settlers for sea salt production, Grand Turk is the largest of the Turks Islands and is home to historic sites, stunning beaches and colourful marine life. From diving and snorkelling to lounging beachside or exploring the island on scooters, there's something to match everyone's holiday style. Discover the island's British and Bermuda roots whilst touring Cockburn Town where you can learn about the island's old sea salt industry and see the popular Grand Turk Lighthouse - the only lighthouse in the Turks and Caicos. Or enjoy a scenic boat ride over to nearby Gibbs Cay and splash around with the wild stingrays that like to gather in the pristine calm waters surrounding the island.

Miami's amazing medley of cultures and flashy urban settings makes it a scene to be seen. Visit the trendy Art Deco district of South Beach, Calle Ocho in Little Havana, the super-upscale neighborhoods of Coconut Grove and Coral Gables and the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Looking for a cruise from Miami? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises.