STAR COLLECTOR: REEFS & RAINFORESTS: THE CARIBBEAN, COLOMBIA, PANAMA & COSTA RICA VIA THE PANAMA CANAL

A former English colonial stronghold, Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, will entice you with its unique Bajan flair and centuries-old English style architecture. This Caribbean haven, a favorite for Caribbean cruise-goers, offers plenty of adventurous and tropical excursions that will surely entertain you! Beachside attractions are a must – hop on a catamaran to go snorkeling offshore, plunge the ocean depths in a local submarine, or unwind on the sands of Carlisle Bay. Explore the historical remnants of Bridgetown’s English occupation, including St. Michael’s Cathedral, the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill, Arlington House Museum, and Chamberlain Bridge. Better yet, sample the island’s best rums made from local sugarcane at St. Nicholas Abbey or Mount Gay Rum. Delight in Barbados’s natural wonders at Harrison’s Cave, the cavernous limestone grotto concealing striking calcite deposits and warm waters. Stroll the verdant walkways replete with hundreds of blooming flowers at Hunte’s Gardens or the Andromeda Botanic Gardens.

Travel to Bridgetown and immerse yourself in this Bajan paradise!

Visit picturesque Oranjestad, Aruba’s vibrant capital and cultural center. Oranjestad’s myriad colors, in vivid hues of pink, green, and yellow, beckon you to explore this former Dutch colony off the coasts of Venezuela.

Downtown Oranjestad, mere steps from the city’s bustling cruise terminal and not far from the island’s international airport, is lined with historic buildings, designer shops, and some of the island’s best restaurants. While here, be sure to stop in the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba to immerse yourself in the island’s colonial history, or stroll along the sparkling ocean at Wilhelmina Park, Surfside Beach, and Renaissance Beach. For a hint of nostalgia, hop on one of Aruba’s antique streetcars and take a relaxing ride through the effervescent streets of Oranjestad.

More adventurous travelers will enjoy scuba diving off the island’s coasts to catch a glimpse of colorful marine life and sunken ships, or better yet, hiking up the volcanic Hooiberg Mountain for a panoramic look at the city below.

Discover the beguiling beauty of Oranjestad, Aruba’s Caribbean paradise.

San Blas, Panama, known locally as Guna Yala, is a paradise of untouched beauty and indigenous culture, nestled along Panama's Caribbean coast. Comprising an archipelago of over 365 islands, San Blas offers a new adventure for every day of the year. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and coral reefs teeming with marine life make it a haven for snorkeling, diving, and sailing enthusiasts. The natural beauty of the region is perfectly complemented by the rich culture of the Guna people, who manage the territory and preserve their way of life. Visitors are often enchanted by the vibrant, handcrafted molas—intricate textiles made by Guna women, which are sold as colorful souvenirs that embody the spirit of San Blas.

The allure of San Blas lies not only in its idyllic scenery but also in its commitment to sustainable tourism. The Guna Yala territory is one of the few places in the world where indigenous people govern their own land. This autonomy allows the Guna to protect their cultural heritage and the natural environment from overdevelopment, ensuring that travelers experience the islands in their purest form. A visit to a traditional Guna village offers a glimpse into their unique customs, such as communal living, traditional dances, and storytelling. Local guides often share insights about the Guna's deep connection with nature, adding depth to the visitor experience.

The islands are mostly undeveloped, with accommodations ranging from rustic beach huts to eco-friendly lodges that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. For those seeking a digital detox, this is the ideal destination. Days in San Blas are spent hopping from one serene island to another, kayaking through mangroves, and dining on freshly caught seafood prepared by local chefs. Evenings bring the chance to stargaze under some of the clearest skies in the region, free from the glare of city lights.

Fun fact: The Guna people have one of the highest rates of albinism in the world, which has led to albinos being revered as "Children of the Moon." During full moons, they often participate in special ceremonies, celebrating their unique place in Guna society.

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.