12-Day Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean

Fort Lauderdale, located along the southeastern coast of Florida, is known for its sun-soaked beaches, diverse culture, and network of scenic canals that earned the city's nickname: “Venice of America.” The city is a gateway to the Everglades, where visitors can take airboat tours to see alligators, exotic birds, and other wildlife. Fort Lauderdale Beach offers powdery sand and clear waters, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Visitors can stroll along the palm-lined promenade, enjoy beachfront dining, or partake in water sports such as paddleboarding and jet skiing.

Beyond the beaches, Fort Lauderdale boasts a unique cultural scene. The historic Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District is home to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Museum of Discovery and Science, and NSU Art Museum.

One of Fort Lauderdale’s most unique features is its intricate canal system, which stretches over 300 miles. Visitors can take a water taxi or book a sunset cruise to explore the city from a different perspective.

Food lovers will find Fort Lauderdale to be a culinary haven. The city’s diverse dining options range from fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants to international cuisine in Las Olas Boulevard’s eateries. Don’t miss trying a Florida staple like stone crab or Key lime pie!

Grand Cayman, the largest of the Cayman Islands, is a Caribbean paradise offering stunning beaches, world-class diving, and a rich blend of culture and luxury. Seven Mile Beach, often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, is the island’s crown jewel. Its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the sun. Luxury resorts and beachfront restaurants dot the coastline, providing both indulgence and accessibility to one of nature’s finest creations.

Beyond the beach, Grand Cayman is renowned for its underwater wonders. Stingray City is a must-visit, where tourists can interact with friendly southern stingrays in their natural habitat. Divers and snorkelers will also find the island’s coral reefs teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and shipwrecks waiting to be explored. The island is a top destination for diving enthusiasts due to its clear waters and exceptional visibility.

In the heart of the island lies George Town, a charming capital that blends Caribbean flair with British colonial influences. Visitors can explore duty-free shops, savor local delicacies like conch fritters, or visit the Cayman Islands National Museum to delve into the island’s history and culture. For those interested in unique wildlife, a trip to the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park offers the chance to see the endangered blue iguana, native to Grand Cayman.

Fun fact: Grand Cayman is home to the world’s only "Turtle Farm," where visitors can learn about the conservation efforts to protect the green sea turtle. The island’s mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture makes it a versatile destination that caters to both thrill-seekers and those looking to unwind in a tropical setting.

An essential passageway between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Panama Canal is an extraordinary technological landmark and a testament to human innovation. Built in the early twentieth century by American engineers, the canal weaves through the Panamanian isthmus and allows easy access for commercial freighters and cruise ships alike. This stretch of Central America, with lush rain forests and glittering water, makes for an enjoyable cruise.

Aruba is a Caribbean paradise renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. The island's consistent sunny weather and gentle trade winds make it an ideal destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Aruba's small size and well-maintained roads make it easy to explore, whether by car, bike, or guided tour.

For those seeking adventure, Aruba's diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities. Arikok National Park, covering nearly 20 percent of the island, offers hiking trails, ancient caves, and rugged coastlines. The island's coral reefs and shipwrecks are prime spots for snorkeling and diving.

Curacao, a gem in the Caribbean Sea, offers a captivating blend of Dutch colonial charm and vibrant Caribbean culture. Its capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colorful 17th-century architecture and historic waterfront. The city's iconic Handelskade, lined with pastel-hued buildings, presents a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls and waterfront dining. Don't miss the floating Queen Emma Bridge, which connects Willemstad’s Punda and Otrobanda districts and opens to allow ships to pass.

Beyond the historical allure, Curacao is famed for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island boasts some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, including Playa Kenepa Grandi and Playa Cas Abao. These idyllic spots offer perfect settings for snorkeling, diving, and basking in the sun. The island’s marine life is a spectacle in itself, with colorful coral reefs and a diverse array of fish easily accessible from the shore.

Curacao's cultural richness is also reflected in its cuisine, which combines influences from Dutch, Spanish, and African traditions. The island’s culinary scene is a treat for the senses, with local specialties such as keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and stoba (beef stew) featured in many of its restaurants. Additionally, Curacao is known for its vibrant festivals and music, including the lively Carnival celebrations and various local music events throughout the year.

A fun fact about Curacao is that it is home to the famous Curacao liqueur, which is made from the dried peel of the laraha orange, native to the island. For the best experience, visit between January and April when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry, perfect for exploring and enjoying the island’s many offerings.

Fort Lauderdale, located along the southeastern coast of Florida, is known for its sun-soaked beaches, diverse culture, and network of scenic canals that earned the city's nickname: “Venice of America.” The city is a gateway to the Everglades, where visitors can take airboat tours to see alligators, exotic birds, and other wildlife. Fort Lauderdale Beach offers powdery sand and clear waters, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Visitors can stroll along the palm-lined promenade, enjoy beachfront dining, or partake in water sports such as paddleboarding and jet skiing.

Beyond the beaches, Fort Lauderdale boasts a unique cultural scene. The historic Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District is home to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Museum of Discovery and Science, and NSU Art Museum.

One of Fort Lauderdale’s most unique features is its intricate canal system, which stretches over 300 miles. Visitors can take a water taxi or book a sunset cruise to explore the city from a different perspective.

Food lovers will find Fort Lauderdale to be a culinary haven. The city’s diverse dining options range from fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants to international cuisine in Las Olas Boulevard’s eateries. Don’t miss trying a Florida staple like stone crab or Key lime pie!