Panama Canal: Mexico & Costa Rica

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.

The old walled city of Cartagena reflects a turbulent history of conquistadors and pirates. Climb "las murallas" for an unforgettable view of the harbour. Shop for emeralds and leather goods along the cobblestone streets of this enchanting city.

Sail into the Caribbean seaport of Colón and grab a good spot on deck so you can take in the view. What a picture it is. Behold the Atlantic Ocean entrance to the famous Panama Canal. Born from a desire to get to California (and its Gold Rush) as fast as possible, this industrious town was the last stop on the 19th century Panama Railroad. It's now home to Canal Zones, U.S. military bases and of course, beauty.

Experience one of the world's best short cuts! Journey 40 miles through the Panama Canal for an unforgettable experience. Witness first-hand one of the world's manmade short cuts that has changed travel and the transport of goods worldwide.

Just a few miles from Puerto Caldera is Puntarenas, where stunning beaches, an array of wildlife, and streets lined with restaurants, bars and cafés await. Carara National Park is a must for nature lovers and features ancestral trees and secondary forests, perfect for spotting wildlife such as crocodiles and 400-plus species of birds, including colourful scarlet macaws. Or, switch gears and party with the locals at Jaco, about 30 miles south. There, find sun, fun and sand with plenty of bars and places to grab a bite.

This port city was constructed in 1984 to help connect nearby cities. Travellers often venture out to Antigua, a 90-minute trek to where 17th century colonial facades beckons and Guatemalan history comes alive.

As one of Mexico's oldest coastal tourist destinations, Acapulco has much to offer both tourist and traveller. Shop, swim or simply take a siesta on the beach. But be sure not to miss the legendary La Quebrada cliff divers.

Experience the welcoming warmth and thrilling adventures of Mexico's Pacific coast on a Puerto Vallarta cruise. Smaller and more subdued than Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta has retained a good deal of its small village charm to go with 26 miles of spectacular beaches along the Banderas Bay. Stroll the cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Or peruse the many local wares for sale at the open-air markets. Book your Norwegian cruise to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, today and experience this enchanting destination firsthand.

Set off on a Cabo cruise and experience the jewel of the Baja Peninsula. Explore this unique locale where stunning azure waters meet dramatic desert landscapes. Cruise to the peninsula's southern tip and take in Cabo's signature landmark, El Arco ("The Arch"), a rock formation at the tip of "Land's End," or head offroad on a UTV ride through the Mexican Outback. Relax at one of the area's luxurious beach bars, or take a leisurely stroll through local markets. Make your adventure truly your own, with a variety of Norwegian itineraries for an unforgettable Cabo cruise.

Come see why so many people end up leaving their hearts in this city by the Bay. It's a place where little cable cars rise up steep hills to reveal magnificent vistas and winding streets meander past candy-coloured Victorian homes. With so many sights you may want to plan a few extra days to take it all in.