The smaller half of Trinidad and Tobago, the 116-square mile island is a top eco-tourism destination. Its rainforest has been protected since 1776. Kayak through mangrove swamps, mountain bike testing trails in the island's northeast, drift dive with manta rays and sharks, hike the Rainforest Reserve or take in the distinctive Tobago pursuits of goat and crab racing. Cars, taxis and "maxi taxi" minibuses make it easy to get around the island. Carnival sees this exuberant island at its most extroverted.

This tiny twin island republic offers an enticing mix of cultural activities and eco-adventure. Located just off the tip of Venezuela, lively Trinidad, the larger of the two, boasts energetic nightlife in its modern capital, Port-of- Spain. Driving on the North Coast Road reveals lush forest and breathtaking views. Tobago, two hours away by fast ferry, is comparatively serene. Azure seas contrast with pale pink sands and golden sunsets. Protected rainforest and stunning coral reefs complete this paradise.

Looking for a Caribbean cultural melting pot renowned for its Carnival and pulsating to the beat of steel drums, soca music, and calypso? Trinidad is also lined with relaxing beaches and rainforest waterfalls. Nature watching is colorfully kaleidoscopic, with over 450 bird, 600 butterfly, and 700 orchid species. Golf, hiking, mountain biking, surfing, kayaking, fishing, and boating are among the outdoor pastimes. Cool off with fresh cane juice and sea moss milkshakes. Vegetarian food is plentiful. Eat curries and explore India’s influence at Maha Sabha Indian Caribbean Museum and the Waterloo Temple over the sea. Visit Port of Spain, and stroll and jog in Queen’s Park Savannah, near the Botanical Gardens, Emperor Valley Zoo, and Magnificent Seven buildings. The Savannah attracts truckloads of fresh coconuts, and doubles men sell coveted aloo pies. Walk around Independence Square and the Brian Lara Promenade. The Central Bank Money Museum in downtown’s financial district displays doubloons, gold bars, and Slave Savings Bank memorabilia. View Columbus Square’s 1836 Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Parliament meets in Woodford Square’s Red House. King’s Wharf is where cruise ships and Tobago ferries dock. The Venezuela ferry docks at Williams Bay. Near the Chaguaramas Military History and Aerospace Museum is a marina with yachts, sailboats, dry docks, and boat hires. The South Quay’s Fort San Andreas, built by Spain in the 1700s, has a small Port of Spain history museum branch of the National Museum and Art Gallery of Trinidad and Tobago.

The ideal destination for families, honeymooners, divers and golfers alike, La Romana is home to the famous Casa de Campo resort, internationally renowned golf courses, a world-class marina and Altos de Chavón, a beautiful replica of a 16th-century artisan village. Nearby, the Bayahibe area offers picturesque beaches, chic accommodations, desirable attractions and splendid opportunities for ecotourism. Visitors can enjoy stunning Saona Island, Cotubanamá National Park and more.

Akumal means "Place of the Turtle" in the Mayan language, and if you snorkel here, you just might see one swimming alongside you. (Don’t touch it, though. That’s prohibited by law.) You’ll definitely see coral and beautiful fish in the clear, sparkling waters. This tourist-friendly little town is about an hour south of Cancun—but it seems light-years away.

Italian families have been coming to Santa Teresa di Gallura’s lovely beach, Rena Bianca, for years, but only recently have travelers from outside Italy discovered this gem of a destination. Enjoy swimming in deep-blue water, playing in the sand, and, of course, enjoying fantastic fresh seafood in a beachside restaurant.

Liguria, or the Italian Riviera, boasts a bounty of beaches and resort towns, such as tiny Portofino and stylish Rapallo. Hiking trails lead from Portofino to the villages of Cinque Terre. The Riviera of the Setting Sun runs north from Genoa to the French border. Connected by an extensive rail network, most towns are an easy day trip from one another. Genoa is the region's principal city and is home to the famous Cathedral, the Palazzo Reale and an excellent aquarium.