Norman Island is vintage Caribbean paradise: small, privately owned, uninhabited except for wild goats, and accessible only by boat or helicopter. On Norman’s north shore is the sheltered bay known as the Bight, one of the greatest natural anchorages in the British Virgin Islands. At the bay’s entrance, sea caves are renowned for snorkeling. Just offshore, the rock formations known as the Indians are another premier snorkeling spot.
Canouan is one of the Grenadines’ most exclusive retreats, a rugged, hilly island of soft white-sand beaches, secluded coves, sparkling turquoise seas, and extensive offshore reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving. Its name comes from the Arawak word for turtles, which regularly nest on the windward sands and are part of a vibrant marine eco-system of hard and soft corals, sea fans and colorful tropical fish. On Canouan’s southern, leeward coast, Charlestown is the main settlement, set on a lovely natural anchorage that shelters sailboats and yachts.
Gorgeous beaches, aquamarine waters, abundant sunshine and cooling trade winds have long been Aruba’s calling card. This Dutch island captivates with diverse outdoor options – world-class golfing, windsurfing, snorkeling and diving – the distinctly bent divi-divi trees and striking geological formations. The desert-like landscapes and rugged coastline of Arikok National Park are the focus of eco-explorations.
The capital of the Balearic Islands, beautiful Palma is famous for La Seu, the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria overlooking the bay. The adjacent Alumdaina Palace has been a royal residence since the 14th century, and the Gothic-style Bellver Castle houses the city's history museum. The Juan March Foundation Museum boasts a permanent collection of 70 works by the most important Spanish vanguard artists of the 20th century.
Famous worldwide for its annual Cannes Film Festival, this French Riviera resort town attracts the rich and famous to its beaches and sophisticated scene. The Promenade de la Croisette is the place to see and be seen. This broad pedestrian walkway along the beach is lined with designer boutiques, grand hotels and fancy restaurants. So famous is La Croisette, that many miss the other side of Cannes. Tucked up in the hills is Le Suquet, the historic quarter. Wander along its cobblestone streets and enjoy views of the city below.
For nearly 400 years, the Netherlands and France have shared the island known as St. Maarten on the Dutch side and St. Martin on the French. Home to 37 beaches and an array of tropical experiences, the island’s dual cultural profile sets it apart from other Caribbean destinations. Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side, is a bustling port with a lively waterfront, colorful shopping district, casinos, and restaurants serving international fare. Water sports, like sailing, and rainforest explorations are all within easy reach of its docks.
A narrow waterway separates Guadeloupe’s two largest islands, whose wing-like shapes inspired the nickname – “le papillon,” or butterfly – for this overseas department of France. The busy port town of Pointe-à-Pitre sits on the eastern island of Grande-Terre near the bridges to Basse-Terre, offering easy access to both. Grande-Terre is known for beautiful sandy beaches, the most popular along the reef-sheltered southern coast, and restaurants serving Guadeloupe’s best Creole cuisine. Basse-Terre is forested and mountainous – the active volcano La Grande Soufrière is the tallest peak.
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.
Named for its round harbor, Porto Rotondo is a resort town on the Costa Smeralda. While a little quieter than Porto Cervo to the north, the town is no less beautiful and appealing. Some of the most idyllic beaches in this port are obscured by large boulders, so discovering them is an adventure in itself. The unassuming village behind the port has attractive outdoor cafés, restaurants and clubs situated on a pleasant town square. For a taste of rural Sardinia, visit the nearby town of San Pantaleo. Long a haven for artists and writers, it has a bohemian vibe and a gorgeous setting.
This postcard-perfect destination, with its pastel-colored houses encircling the port, may be one of the most photographed in all of Italy. If you can take your eyes off the scenery, there is much to explore in and around Portofino. The 12th-century Church of St. George and the medieval Castello Brown both afford spectacular views of the harbor. A long, scenic hike or a short boat ride takes you to the restored 11th-century abbey in San Fruttuoso. Northwest of Portofino lies Genoa, filled with museums, palaces and the grand Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
