Best time: November to December
There’s nothing quite like island life! Reggae music and crashing waves are the soundtrack to this Caribbean destination that’s famous for their aromatic dishes and plenty to keep visitors busy. Explore majestic waterfalls and wind down rivers in a bamboo raft. Sip Blue Mountain coffee at sunrise and rich rum at sunset while lounging on the gorgeous coast. Most of all, indulge in the easygoing pace of a truly relaxing atmosphere.
Best Time: April to May
Variety abounds on these coasts, where you can travel up the tallest mountain in the Caribbean or descend into a trek through the jungle. You can expect the warm, extroverted locale to teach you how to dance merengue and show you why the DR is known for making memorable nights out. For an intimate change of pace, discover mountain views from atmospheric restaurants. When all is said and done, imagine the relief of untying your sneakers and sinking into the soft Caribbean sand.
Best Time to Travel: December to April
Dive into all the wonder of the Bahamas islands with all the luxury of a five-star resort along the way. A cruise through the islands allows you to explore multiple ports, like the pink sand of Harbor Island, the capitol city Nassau, and the only over-water spa in the Bahamas at Kamalame Cay. Between your adventures will be the opportunity to explore your cruise ship, which--no matter the ship--will include entertainment, exclusive dining options, and poolsides to stretch out along.
Best Time to Travel: March to July
The majority of the Caribbean can be explored with Eastern, Western, and Southern cruises. The island arc of the Eastern Caribbean is a shopaholic's paradise nestled among incredible beaches for those looking for plenty of time to unwind. Some ports you can expect out of a Western cruise include Belize or Cozumel, but each island has plenty of activity in the form of ocean adventures, nature preserves, and historic cities. The Southern Caribbean encompasses a Dutch-inspired architecture with pastel buildings in Aruba as well as the natural wonders of rainforests and waters ready for snorkeling. Each unique collection of Caribbean islands are set apart in their own way, but share pristine beaches and excursions of all kinds.
Best Time to Travel: March to April
This sailing tops every tropical cruiser's must-do list! Lined with limestone cottages and grottoes you can swim in, Bermuda is the picture of quaint sophistication. The limestone the island is full of creates a shockingly blue surrounding of water. These bright blue waves crash on pink shores in a few of the bays, and that’s just one of the unexpected adventures you can stumble upon! Explore all the picturesque island has to offer, then indulge in the many features of your ship. Spend a few days at sea and a few days in destination on this itinerary.
Best Time: May/June or September/October
If there’s a few things you need to see in life, they are the ancient history ruins of Italy, the white stone buildings of Santorini, the ancient temples of Greece, and the stunning Croatia. The Mediterranean, filled with picturesque islands and the best wine in the world, is made all the better by cruising along it in a ship that has it all. Island-hopping is easy with excursions set in advance, plus you’ll be sure to have an oceanside view.
Best Time to Travel: May to September
Adventurous vacationers, this is the place for you! From glacier hiking to wildlife, Alaska has sights, experiences, and all the moments you need to feel like a true explorer of the world. If getting up close with nature sounds less like you and glamping is more your speed, an Alaskan cruise is the perfect compromise. Your cruise ship will satisfy the relaxation a vacation warrants, with room service and all, and the excursions in between will help you get the most out of the wonders of The Last Frontier.
Best Time to Travel: March to September
Experience all the luxury of a tropical, exotic getaway without ever needing to reach for your passport. The Hawaiian islands offer stretches of shoreline, crystal blue waves, and opportunities to connect to nature for those looking for a little more adventure. From volcanoes to incredible botanical gardens, Hawaii is a must-see for any traveler that hasn’t yet checked it off their bucket list.
Best Time to Travel: May to September
The thousands of miles of untouched wilderness makes Alaska the best way to feel like you’ve truly escaped into another life. For nature lovers, the hiking, camping, and mountaineering are legendary in the untapped natural beauty of this state. Or opt for five-star over a tent and sample some of the beautiful lodges nestled into the stunning landscape to ensure comfort and a picturesque stay. Descend into another world without ever leaving the U.S.
Best Time to Travel: March to May
Urban adventurers will find everything they need to ensure the vacation of a lifetime in Sin City! A sprawling collection of lights, entertainment, and nonstop action dropped right in the middle of the desert is a novelty all its own, but the true charm of the city can only be experienced. World-class dining, theme park-esque casinos, and the famous Las Vegas Strip make for a vacation that is truly a playground for adults. There’s no telling what you’ll stumble upon each night!