9 Nights Caribbean, Southern

This vast array of wonderful beaches offers you opportunities to swim with the dolphins in a tropical lagoon and come face-to-face with alligators during an Everglades airboat tour. Or stroll through a tropical rainforest while hundreds of butterflies flutter above you.

The capital of the 700 Bahamian Islands has a storied past that includes occupation by several notorious pirates, including Blackbeard. Aside from being one of the greatest places for coral reef snorkeling, Nassau is prized for its Victorian mansions, cathedrals and 18th century fortresses.

The largest of the Netherlands Antilles has its fair share of Dutch colonial buildings, but its dry climate, barren soil and cacti are more akin to the U.S. Southwest. Its greatest beauty lies offshore?the island's coral reefs. Volcanic pebbles make up many of its rocky beaches.

Colonial architecture comprises much of Aruba's bright and breezy capital, which is located just south of the main resort area. Orangestad is extremely popular because of its abundance of boutiques and duty-free shops. Local bars provide great opportunities to socialize with the locals.

This vast array of wonderful beaches offers you opportunities to swim with the dolphins in a tropical lagoon and come face-to-face with alligators during an Everglades airboat tour. Or stroll through a tropical rainforest while hundreds of butterflies flutter above you.