region

Basse-Terre

Submitted by jennifer.shraim on

Guadeloupe is nicknamed “le papillon” – the butterfly – for the distinctive shape of its two main islands. The left wing, Basse-Terre is a lush, wild eco-paradise of great natural beauty. La Grande Soufriere volcano rises more than 4,800 feet over the verdant mountainous interior, most of which forms a vast, uninhabited rainforest preserve. Guadeloupe National Park is celebrated for its rich array of tropical flora -- trees, ferns, orchids and more – many birds, rivers, stunning waterfalls and challenging hikes.

Tenerife, Canary Island

Submitted by jennifer.shraim on

Just 130 miles from Africa, Santa Cruz de Tenerife was founded in 1494, becoming a key port on the trade route between Europe and the Americas. Framed by Baroque churches and historic buildings, charming plazas dot the city, including the central Plaza de España. In contrast, the modern Torres de Santa Cruz are the tallest twin towers in Spain, and the futuristic Auditorio de Tenerife sits majestically on the waterfront. Calle de la Noria bustles with Canarian style and offers shopping, entertainment and cuisine.

Campeche

Submitted by shenju4rcyc on

The capital of the state that shares its name, Campeche is home to military architecture, cobblestone streets, well-preserved mansions and a walled city center. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the fortified town is a model of Spanish colonial city planning. A stroll on Calle 59 leads from city gates Puerta de Tierra, or “door to the land,” to Puerta del Mar, or “door to the sea.” Nearby San Miguel Fort has an excellent archaeological museum of Mayan artifacts, while San Jose Fort features displays of armaments.

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