Central & South America

Beautifully positioned in the Straits of Florida, the island of Key West is the United States’ southernmost point, located just 90 miles from Cuba. It’s one of the sunniest cities in the country with a beautiful year-round tropical climate—neither too hot nor too cold—and at only four miles long by two miles wide, Key West is filled with fabulous beaches, historic sights, international restaurants and a very lively nightlife. Meander down Duval Street for its energetic strips of cafés, shops and bars, or take a walking tour to see some of the island’s best architecture, courtyards and gardens. Dive or snorkel in the coral reefs and wrecks off Key West, or simply stroll in the footsteps of such famous citizens Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams and Thomas Edison, who all called Key West home at one point in their storied lives.

As the largest and most cosmopolitan of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is a popular international banking destination mostly centered around the capital, George Town. But if interest rates and dividends aren’t what get you excited, fear not—there’s still a plethora of sights to see and things to do on this pleasant tropical island.

Since Christopher Columbus first dropped anchor just off its coast in 1502, the tranquil and hospitable town of Puerto Limon has been welcoming travelers from all over the world. Today, it’s the heart of Costa Rica’s Afro-Caribbean culture, and the gateway to many of the country’s best eco-adventures. The 3,400-acre Veragua Rainforest Park is home to exotic monkeys, hummingbird and butterfly gardens, reptiles, sloths, and an aerial tram that travels through the rainforest canopy and takes you down to the Trail of the Giants (huge old growth trees). Take a boat ride down the canals of Tortuguero National Park or go snorkeling amongst the coral reefs in Cahuita National Park.

Founded in 1519 by the Spanish conquistadors, Panama City is now one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Central America and home to incredible architectural and ethnic diversity. This diversity is reflected in the variety of culinary styles and Panamanian dishes, which are a unique blend of Spanish, African and Native American cuisine. When not dining at one of the city’s many renowned restaurants, be sure to visit the neighborhood of Casco Viejo, the historic heart of Panama City, and the Calle Uruguay district for its vibrant nightlife; hike through acres and acres national parks and the rainforest at Parque Natural Metropolitano, located just minutes from downtown; and of course, a trip to the Miraflores locks to watch huge ships travel along the iconic Panama Canal. And with both the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal and the opening of the second canal locks in 2014, there’s no better time to visit.

Trujillo is a beautiful example of modern touches seamlessly blending with colonial-era architecture. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its beautiful weather and burgeoning cultural scene, Trujillo’s rich history unfolds before your eyes as you stroll its streets—many of which appear the same as they did hundreds of years ago.