Western Caribbean Ports

In the state of Quintana Roo, Cancun provides calm, peaceful days for visitors to enjoy the sun and sand. With some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, there are a number of activities in and out of the water.

The "Conch Republic" is a festive island of colorful bars and equally colorful characters in what may as well be the tropics. America's southernmost tip, where Harry Truman spent his summers playing poker and running the country, is a non-stop delight. Visit Hemingway's house where you'll find his original manuscripts and many of his famed six-toed cats. And while you're on the island be sure to sample its culinary treasures, such as conch salad and world-famous Key Lime pie.

Montego Bay, known as "Mo' Bay" to the locals, is Jamaica's second largest community. Gorgeous white-sand beaches and mangrove wetlands surround the old town, which rests at the bottom of lush green mountains. Montego Bay offers the best of the Caribbean, including beautiful Georgian architecture in the historic town of Falmouth. Surround yourself with the essence of Jamaica in the island's friendliest city.

Originally called "Los Chorreos" by the Spanish in 1657, Ocho Rios, once a small banana and fishing port, has become the cruise ship capital of Jamaica. Dunn's River Falls, a 600-foot natural staircase of cascading water is the most famous attraction in Ocho Rios. For sheer natural beauty, you can't surpass Shaw Park Botanical Gardens, which offers 32 acres of indigenous trees, flowers and shrubs, as well as picturesque streams and waterfalls. In addition, you'll also find plenty of opportunities for diving, sailing and golfing.

Calica, the newest gateway to the Yucatan Peninsula, is located just three miles south of Playa del Carmen and right next door to the incredible Xcaret nature park, one of the most popular attractions on the entire peninsula. If you're a diver or a snorkeling enthusiast, you'll be fascinated by the brilliant colors of Calica's underwater world. Or you can just enjoy basking in the sun on one of the many beautiful beaches.

Grand Cayman is one of a group of three magnificent tropical islands Christopher Columbus called "Las Tortugas" (the turtles) for the sea creatures he found in the ocean water. The designation did not endure, however, for on later maps the islands were labeled the Caimanau, the Carib Indian word for "crocodile." The name "Caimanas" refers inaccurately to the iguanas native to the islands, which were perhaps at one point mistaken for crocodiles. Among other attractions, visitors to the island will enjoy learning about the turtles, visiting the town of Hell, exploring Seven-Mile Beach and enjoying the undersea world.