Spotlight On: the Caribbean

Did you know one of the worst volcanic eruptions in history took place on Martinique? Or that Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic is the oldest permanent European city in the Western Hemisphere?

For those who want more than a beach vacation, there’s plenty to pique your interest and satisfy your curiosity in the beautiful islands of the Caribbean. Many resorts offer tours to interesting places so why not take some time to learn about your destination from local guides? You can also venture around on your own whether you are in town for a day off a ship or staying on a longer vacation.

Here’s a summary of some of the most interesting places to visit.

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
~ Oldest city in the Americas (1498) - Visit the colonial sector of the city and you’ll be amazed at the cobblestone streets and well preserved buildings from yesteryear. The first cathedral, fortress, hospital, monastery, university, palace and street in the Americas are found here.

Cuba offers many unique experiences
~From the Tropicana Nightclub to the sites of Old Havana (1519), Cuba is rich in intriguing and historical places. Attend Spanish classes, watch the experts roll cigars or take up Cuban music and dance. Cuba is also a leading bird watching centre, a good reason to take a guided hike.

Forts, homes and plantations
~ Restored plantation homes on Jamaica, Barbados and St. Croix are over 200 years old. Guided tours provide a glimpse into life on a sugar plantation.
~ El Morro (1539) in Old San Juan is Puerto Rico's best known fortress and one of the best preserved in the Caribbean. It was declared a World Heritage site by the United Nations in 1983.
~ Old San Juan (1519) is home to many other historic sites including Spanish cellist Pablo Casal’s home, now a museum.
~ La Vigía was the residence of American writer, Ernest Hemingway for more than 20 years. It is situated in the town San Francisco de Paula, outside Havana, Cuba.

Museums
~ The Volcanological Museum on Martinique explains the history and geology behind the eruption of Mt. Pelé which destroyed the town of Saint-Pierre in 1902, one of the worst volcanic eruptions in history.
~ The Dockyard Museum on Antigua is a naval history museum which tells the story of famous English Harbour, first used as hurricane shelter in 1671.
~ The Sugar Museum in Barbados explains the history of sugar cultivation and production, so vital to the island’s economy.
~ The Virgin Islands Museum houses period furnishings, artworks and exhibits. Situated in historic Fort Christian (1672) on St. Thomas.

Architecture
~ Dominica, Grenada and St. Lucia for fine examples of Creole Architecture
~ Old San Juan, Santo Domingo and Havana for colonial Spanish
~ Willemstad, Curacao for authentic Caribbean Dutch
~ Barbados for Jacobean and Georgian buildings built with coral and ships ballast.

Aquariums and marine parks
~ Interact with sea life at these world class venues:
~ Stingray City and Cayman Islands Turtle Farm, Grand Cayman
~ Coral World Ocean Park, St. Thomas.
~ Seaquarium, Curacao
~ Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios Jamaica

Distillery & Factory Tours
~ Cigar companies in Cuba including Partagas, makers of the premium brands Churchill and Lusitanias.
~ Rum factory tours are available on many islands with the Bacardi Rum factory in San Juan the largest producer in the world.
~ Curacao liqueur at Chobolobo in Willemstad, Curacao.
~ Working coffee plantations in Jamaica’s famous Blue Mountains also open their doors to visitors.

Cruising Mexico

Culturally rich Mexico offers you a variety of exhilarating experiences in three cruising regions: the Mayan Riviera, Mexican (Pacific) Riviera and Sea of Cortez. Whether your vacation is for fiesta, siesta, adventure or exploration, you’ll find what you’re looking for on a cruise to this charming country.

Mexico's Cruising Regions

The Mexican Riviera

The Pacific coast of Mexico, known as the Mexican Riviera, stretches from the port of Ensenada near the California border to Huatulco, south of Acapulco. This was the destination of the popular television series “The Love Boat” which introduced millions to cruising in the 1970's.

Ports of Call

Cabo San Lucas – at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, this once sleepy fishing village has developed into a leading resort, complete with super yachts and homes of the rich and famous. Los Arcos is a unique rock formation where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. Golf with sea views and participate in water sports and deep sea fishing and horseback riding.

Puerto Vallarta – the popular resort spot originally made famous in the 1960's when Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton purchased a home there while filming “Night of the Iguana”. Leading spot for deep sea fishing, water sports and whale watching.

Mazatlan - sail into this important port city past Creston's peak, with the world's second tallest light house (only the Rock of Gibraltar is taller). Be sure to visit the historic old town.

Ixtapa/ Zihuatanejo - Ixtapa is just 5 minutes drive from the fishing village of Zihuatanejo. The beaches of Troncones and wildlife preserve at Barra de Potosi are highlights.

Manzanillo – the setting for the movie “10” with Bo Derek, it is the gateway for the tiered pyramids of La Campana, dating from the first century.

Acapulco – the original Mexican resort city, Acapulco has a beautiful, semi-circular harbour. See the cliff divers perform at La Quebrada, the top attraction.

Huatulco – recently developed specifically as a tourist resort, this scenic town is a port of call on some Panama Canal itineraries.

The Sea of Cortez

Situated between Baja and mainland Mexico, the tranquil Sea of Cortez has long been a favourite of small ship eco-adventure cruising. Now some of the big ships call in the area, notably Holland America Line on 10-day sailings from San Diego that combine the Mexican Riviera and Sea of Cortez. Highlights are the wealth of sea lions, dolphins, whales and birds, scenic cruising of the Sierra de la Giganta and the Copper Canyon.

Ports of Call

Loreto – Home to The Mission Nuestro Senora de Loreto Concha, the first Spanish mission in the Californias (1697). Coming ashore at the peaceful marina the setting is reminiscent of Cabo San Lucas 20 years ago. Enjoy exploring this quiet and fascinating town.

Topolobampo – beautiful seaport, gateway to the Copper Canyon, four times larger than the Grand Canyon and almost 300 feet deeper.

La Paz ( port of Pichilinque ) – Capital of the Baja California Sur, this city has an impressive waterfront walkway, protected beaches, an historic mission (1720) and an excellent museum.

The Yucatan Peninsula & Mayan Riviera

Bordered by both the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, the southern coast is known as the Mayan Riviera. Cruise ports serve as spring boards for exploring the ancient Mayan ruins and experiencing the many eco and water sport opportunities.

Ports of Call

Cozumel – Mexico's busiest cruise port is famous as a diving and snorkelling island, thanks to its remarkable coral reefs – the Great Mayan Reef is the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. The town of San Miguel has grown as a shopping centre for cruise passengers while the island's centre is mostly natural, home to the Chankanaab National Park and the Punta Sur Ecological Reserve. There are lots of good spots to swim, horseback ride or relax with a drink by the sea on the circle island drive.

Calica – this is not a destination in itself but a drop off point for those wanting to explore the region.

Progreso - on the peninsula's northwest coast, close to the city of Merida and the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, X'cambo and Dzibilchltun.


Mexico is a year-round destination but you'll have the best selection of ships and itineraries between October and May. Interested in a Mexico cruise? Meet our Cruise Specialist Deborah.

Whale Watching with Orca Spirit Adventures

If you're staying in the Victoria area, whale-watching is an absolute must! One of the best places to go for Victoria BC whale watching is Orca Spirit Adventures. Situated in Victoria’s world-famous inner harbour, Orca Spirit’s three-hour long tours take passengers into the thrilling waters of the Haro and Juan de Fuca Straits– the best location in the world for witnessing whales and marine life in their natural habitats.

Through the months of April to October, Victoria whale watching passengers have the chance to view the area’s resident pods, called J, K and L. There are over 100 orcas in these pods, which gives passengers a 95% chance of seeing an orca. They may see others types of whales also, such as Gray, Minke and Humpback. Other than whales, it is not unusual to also spot Elephant and Harbour seals, Bald Eagles, Cormorants, Dall Porpoises and Harbour Porpoises.

There are a wide selection of vessels to choose from at Orca Spirit. If you want a wet and thrilling Victoria BC whale watching tour, choose a Zodiac, which holds 12 passengers. The Zodiacs boast an exciting and safe ride and have full washrooms on board as well as comfortable padded seating. Orca Spirit’s fleet includes larger vessels as well, with luxurious interiors, 360 degree rooftop decks and surround systems for listening to the whales. The largest boats offer a full bar service and are available not only for whale watching tours, but also for weddings and parties.

Orca Spirit recognizes the importance of safe and sustainable Victoria whale watching practices, so they follow the strict guidelines set out by the Pacific Whale Watch Association. In areas of unknown or suspected marine activity, boat operators drive with caution and continuously look for marine mammal activity. They always approach whales from the side and never get too close–100 metres max. If they happen upon a whale by accident, operators immediately cut their engines and wait for the whale to pass. Guides also monitor the output produced by their depth sounders, sonar and exhaust systems.

Tips for Trekking Abroad

Planning on going trekking or hiking abroad anytime soon? Here are some things you should consider before going on a trek. If you have your own trekking tips, feel free to share them in the comments.

1. Health: It is essential that you are in good health before taking any trip - especially trekking trips. If you decide to embark on a trek you should be at a high fitness level. Depending on where you are traveling to, you may need to have vaccinations for malaria, cholera, tetanus, typhoid or hepatitis. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, you should always carry your medication with you while trekking.

2. Dehydration: It is common for trekkers to get dehydrated. Make sure you take an adequate amount of water with you each day so that you have enough fluid to rehydrate. Depending on where you travel to, you may need to bring iodine tablets in order to dilute the water so it is safe to drink. Make sure you research the destination and bring an adequate supply of iodine tablets with you.

3. Footwear: Trekking is not a simple stroll through the park; you will be hiking through rough and sometimes wet and slippery terrain. For this reason it is important to bring a good pair of shoes or hiking boots. A poor choice in footwear can leave you with seriously sore and even injured feet. Make sure that the shoes are comfortable, with good arch support and have good grip on the soles.

Also, don’t forget to wear stockings or thick socks while you are trekking. Synthetic blended socks are great, as they are specially designed to prevent blisters.

4. Carbs: It is important to carry a good balance of food. That being said, you should always have a mix of solid proteins and carbohydrates in your food supply when you trek. This will supply you with the energy you need to get you through the hike.

5. Always bring a first aid kit with you.

City Snap Guide: The Okanagan

The Okanagan is a beautiful area within the interior of British Columbia. Camping, swimming, wine tours, great food, not to mention incredible golf courses and more are all available in the Okanagan! One of the warmest regions in all of Canada, the Okanagan is an incredible place to vacation all year round. It's comprised of the major centers, Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon and Osoyoos. During the summer months you can enjoy the hot, sandy beaches, wineries, outdoor and water activities, especially in and around Okanagan Lake - which provides the whole area with fantastic swimming and is a beautiful backdrop to all the wineries and golf courses! In the winter, there are popular ski resorts located in the rolling hills of the valley. Welcome to one of the most beautiful places on earth. Have you ever been to the Okanagan? Feel free to share your own tips below at the bottom in the comments section. 


Kelowna & Penticton

The largest city in the interior of British Columbia and on the eastern side of Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is the cultural capital of the Okanagan. With many galleries, museums, gardens, public art displays and eclectic shops, Kelowna is sure to spark your creative spirit. Vacationing in Kelowna is absolutely wonderful - the area offers natural beauty, sunshine, fifteen fabulous golf courses, incredible views, and internationally renowned gardens. Kelowna is also home to the elusive Ogopogo, the questionably mythical lake creature. Waterslides, paintballing fields, and tons of water activities are available on the lake. If you leave Kelowna, you'll drive through the surrounding communities of Westbank, Summerland and Peachland (the jewel of the Okanagan), finally coming upon Penticton. A four-season destination complete with sandy beaches, fish filled lakes (bring your fishing license!), ski hills, orchards, wineries and golf courses. Sandwiched between two warm-water lakes, Penticton is perfect for those who love water sports or relaxing.  

Vernon & Osoyoos

Vernon is surrounded by mountains and has something all year round, from orchards and wineries to ski resorts. Vernon overlooks three lakes and so the summertime is filled with fishing, kayaking and scuba diving. In the winter the city hosts one of the largest winter carnivals this side of Quebec! Vernon is also home to Silver Star Mountain, a fabulous ski resort that offers everything from skiing and snowboarding, to dog sledding and snowmobiling! Osoyoos is Canada's only desert, and is home to fifteen estate British Columbian wineries. Osoyoos is Canada's "lifestyle community" and has something for everyone. It's also an amazing place to camp in the summer time - but bring your sunblock, it gets scorching hot. Osoyoos has two stand-out cultural and historic attractions: the Osoyoos Museum and the Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre. The high quality of the museum's exhibits has made it "The Best Small Town Museum in BC," according to the University of British Columbia, while its Nk'Mip Day School Art Collection is particularly good.


Wineries

The Okanagan is known for it's picturesque setting, and is considered the ideal wine valley - especially since many of the wineries overlook Okanagan Lake. The climate and setting of the Okanagan Valley provides the perfect conditions for wine grapes. The quality of grapes grown here produce some of the best wines in Canada and are known throughout the world. For a complete map of the available wineries, click here and see the list.

Trekking in Vietnam

Are you looking for an exotic destination for your next trek? Many people have found that Vietnam is a wonderful destination for trekking. Vietnam is characterized by tropical jungles, rolling green hills and lush, dense mountains. Much of Vietnam is feasible for treks, hikes or walks.

One of the most popular mountains for trekking in Vietnam is Sapa. Trekkers from around the world are attracted to Sapa by the mountains stunning natural beauty. Sapa is a perfect destination for both beginners and seasoned trekking experts. Hikes through the valleys are generally easier to undertake. For a more challenging hike, there are many steep trails near the village of Cat Cat. Another popular trekking area is Phin village.

Travelers going to the Sapa should be well prepared. The trails are often wet and can be quite slippery. The temperatures can become very cold, so warm clothing is an absolute must.

For an adventurous hiking experience, try the Hoang Lien Mountain range (nicknamed the Tonkinese Alps by the French) which is surrounds Sapa. This mountain range is located at the tail end of the Himalaya.

Things to do with Kids in Barcelona

Family vacations are always fun, but children get bored easily. If you are planning a trip to Barcelona with the entire family, do not worry about kids’ attractions. The Spanish city has many places where your children will discover entertaining activities and will have a chance to explore new games.

Barcelona’s Zoo Garden

Grownups and children are welcomed in Barcelona’s Zoo to discover over 2000 animals from all around the world: from exotic species to farm animals, from marine species to jungle monkeys. Barcelona Zoo was opened in 1892 in the Citadel Park (Parc de la Ciutadella). Children will find out more about the animals they love and take a close look at them. Spend a day at the zoo and your kids will learn how to prepare food for animals, where the animals sleep and how to take care of them. They can visit the farm, see dolphin shows or ride ponies. Once you get tired walking, rent a mini electric car to continue driving your way to a full visit of the zoo.

Tips on Visiting Barcelona's Zoo:

• Don’t miss the gorillas’ corner. These giant apes captivate the attention of all visitors. Moreover, Barcelona’s Zoo was the home of Snow Flake, the only known albino gorilla so far, according to Wikipedia. He was the star of the Zoo for almost 4 decades and now he has a special expositional area dedicated to his life.
• To reach the Zoo, take the subway the red line (L1) and get off either at Arc de Triomf or at Marina station. You can also take the yellow line (L4), and get off at Jaume I or at Ciutadella station.
• In the summer, Zoo Garden opens its gates at 10 am and closes them at 8 pm. During winter, the closing time is however 5.30 pm.

The Aquarium of Barcelona

Children will definitely love the fascinating world of the oceans and the seas. In L’Aquarium de Barcelona visitors can see almost 450 different species of fish and marine animals. See the Mediterranean tanks to discover the sea horses, explore the tropical seas to see the piranha, visit Planet Aqua tanks to see how penguins adapted in the frozen seas of the Arctic Ocean.

The main attraction of L’Aquarium is the Oceanarium, a huge tank with a diameter of 36 meters. A walk through an 80-meters-long transparent tunnel, under this tank, is an experience your family must not miss. It’s like walking on the sea bed, while sharks and other fishes surround you.

Tips:

• If you want to have a unique experience make a booking for a one-night sleep with the sharks. Bring your pyjamas and stay up all night long. Your child will love playing games and learning interesting things about sharks.
• To reach L’Aquarium take the subway green line (L3) and get off at Drassanes station or take the yellow line (L4) and get off at Barcelonetta station.
• L’Aquarium de Barcelona is open every day of the year, from 9.30 am.

Tibidabo Amusement Park

Try to rediscover childhood in this magic place. Tibidabo Amusement Park is more than a century old and nowadays still keeps some of its old attractions. The Hall of Mirrors and the puppets, held in the Automatons Museum, have been long time objectives for tourists. Over 30 attractions for the whole family are ready for the visitors. Young or old, everybody will have something to enjoy. Try the big panoramic wheel, the traditional carousel or the exciting roller coaster.

Tibidabo Amusement Park is situated at over 500 meters high, on Collserola Mountain. You can get from here the best views of Barcelona. If your family is tired of all the fun in the park, find the picnic area and have a quick lunch.

Tips:
• For a real fantastic view over the city get out of the amusement park and go to the Temple of Atonement of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Temple of Tibidabo. The top of the temple is situated at 575 m above sea level and it can be reached by lift.
• Tibidabo Park usually opens its gates around 12 am. In summer time, it closes around 10 pm. Check out Tibidabo official site to see the opening hours for every season and listed prices.
• To reach Tibidabo Amusement Park take the FGC underground train line (L7) and get off at Av.Tibidabo station. Take the Blue Tram from there and then the funicular.

The Maritime Museum

Spend an afternoon in this special place. Every visitor is charmed by the vast collection of ships and boats exhibited in The Maritime Museum. It hosts one of the most important collections of maritime ships from the Mediterranean Sea and reproductions of boats from different periods of history.

You will discover the life of pirates or the way people on sea shores used to live and work. You will have the chance to learn more about navigation and trade in the Mediterranean Sea. You will see how a fisherman boat looks like.

Tips:

• Don’t miss the impressive full-sized reproduction of the slave galley. It is not hard to imagine how slaves set there and rowed this huge ship.
• To reach the Maritime Museum, take the subway green line (L3) and get off at Drassanes station.
• The Maritime Museum is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm, except the 1st and the 6th of January, the 25th an the 26th of December.