This British Overseas Territory on Spain’s southern coast is dominated by the Rock of Gibraltar, fondly called The Rock. For spectacular views, take a six-minute cable car ride to the top, where you can see two continents, two bodies of water and three countries. A short walk brings you to the Gibraltar Nature Reserve and the cheeky Barbary macaques, the famous monkeys that roam freely here. Other highlights include the illuminated stalagmites of St.
Life revolves around the sea, sand and sun on the small Mexican island of Cozumel. At a mere 24 miles long, Cozumel has only one town, San Miguel. The port is the bustling hub for shopping, dining and all manner of watercraft, from fishing boats and catamarans to ferries and cruise ships. Away from the piers and waterfront promenade, Cozumel is laid-back, low-key and largely undeveloped.
On the island of Grand Turk, it’s all about the gorgeous beaches – and the impossibly clear waters surrounding them. The sea starts shallow at the shore and ever so gradually deepens, which creates a spectacular spectrum of every shade of blue imaginable. Step off your yacht, stroll right onto the beach and relax on the pearly white sands. There are also excellent snorkeling and diving spots around the island, including the offshore coral reefs and Gibbs Cay, where you can swim with friendly stingrays.
Saint Barthélemy – better known as Saint Barth – represents a special brand of Caribbean luxury. Exclusive yet unpretentious, its barefoot elegance is distinctly Gallic in style. Around a scenic harbor filled with yachts and sailboats, the tidy capital of Gustavia is a chic mix of designer boutiques, galleries, and fine restaurants serving elevated French-Caribbean cuisine.
History oozes from every corner of Corfu, an island prize coveted by a succession of maritime powers since the Peloponnesian War in the 4th century BC. But who can blame them? This Ionian idyll is the greenest of all Greek islands, swathed in orange and olive groves and endless beaches bathed by a cerulean sea. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town of Corfu includes the magnificent Esplanade, where you can watch a game of cricket from a sidewalk café. There are also beautiful palaces, castles and archaeological sites to explore.
One of Europe's favorite playgrounds, Ibiza boasts more than 100 miles of coastline frosted with exquisite beaches. It's a hub of sun worship, white sand, beach bars and clubs that buzz all night. And there's history too. The fortified Old Town, known as Dalt Vila, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a spectacular example of Renaissance military architecture. Carrer del Calvari leads to Portal Nou, the entrance through the old city walls, and a walk up the hill reveals panoramic views of the city.
Perched upon a rock in the harbor, the Little Mermaid welcomes all to this lively, fun-loving city of Danes, said to be some of the happiest people in the world. From the fabulous food and fresh water to free education, free healthcare and a 37-hour work week, this is a society firmly focused on the good life, and its capital is a joy to explore.
Just south of La Romana is an island paradise that gives an idea of what these environs were like back in 1698 when pirate William Kidd anchored his ship offshore and fled his English pursuers. While less than six square miles in size, Isla Catalina supports diverse ecosystems including sand dunes, mangrove forests and impressive coral reefs. The entire island is a national park and rich in wildlife with numerous species of birds and tropical fish. Catalina is a haven for diving and snorkeling, and equipment can easily be rented.
Situated at the northwestern outlet of the Panama Canal, the city of Colón opens a window into the marvels of this engineering feat. A cruise along the Gatun Locks reveals the diverse wildlife that thrives on the islands created by the canal’s construction, and on the far shores, the Miraflores Locks further illuminate the genius, dedication and sacrifice required to build the canal. The Panama Canal Railway, created in response to the traffic brought here by the California Gold Rush, follows the same route of scenic views.
Toward the southern end of the Grenadines chain, Union Island is a favorite getaway for sailors and adventurous travelers drawn to its unspoiled scenery and relaxed lifestyle. Chatham Bay, on Union’s west coast, is a secluded anchorage backed by steep, verdant hills topped by the ruins of an old fort. Along its quiet beach are bars and a restaurant frequented by locals and visitors alike. On Union’s east coast, Clifton is an unpretentious port town with local shops, cafés and restaurants on the waterfront and main road.
