Miami, Florida - As far as vacation destinations go, Miami tops most sun-seekers’ lists. With its gorgeous beaches, vibrant neighborhoods and melting pot of cultures, the Magic City is the perfect place to spend a few days before your Caribbean island hop. Ahead of your cruise from Miami, jump-start your morning in true Miami style with a Cuban cafecito from a ventanita — a streetside shop window. Then climb the historic lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on quiet Key Biscayne before lounging on the island’s secluded sandy shores. If you’re looking for a bit more action, head to South Beach — home to world-class restaurants, nightlife, shopping and lively beaches, all set against snap-worthy Art Deco buildings. Art lovers who visit Miami can head to Wynwood and explore the neighborhood’s colorful street murals and local galleries. Or take a trip back in time at the Renaissance-style Vizcaya estate, which offers a glimpse into Miami’s dazzling past.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Grand Cayman is where the high life meets island life. Snorkel with stingrays in Stingray City. Treat your inner foodie at eateries established by acclaimed top chefs like Michael Schwartz, or chow down on conch fritters by the seashore. You can even soak up some rays at one of the beaches voted best in the world, Seven Mile Beach. And do it all in the same day.

Belize City, Belize - From the thriving, pulsating Caribbean capital of Belize, paradise calls. The longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere (175 miles long and second only to Australia's Great Barrier Reef) is dotted with cayes teeming with a dazzling array of colorful fish and tropical plants. Inland, find dense virgin jungles, tumbling jade-green rivers and verdant valleys. An eco-tourist's paradise.

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Past meets present in Costa Maya. Cruise to Costa Maya and find ancient Maya ruins and mysterious jungles just begging to be explored, as well as private beach clubs and trendy restaurants— all in one place. It’s 250 square miles of paradise packed with entertainment and history, all just 30 miles south of Cancun. The Great Maya Reef just off the coast is the second largest in the world— it’s a must-snorkel spot. Or you can kick back at the port village of Mahahual with an ice-cold michelada— a spicy beer cocktail— in hand. For a culture fix, head to the Kohunlick ruins to see the famous Temple of the Masks.

Key West, Florida - A distinctly American town with the look and feel of the Caribbean, Key West unlocks myriad attractions. Ride the Conch Train to the famous sights: Ernest Hemingway's home, the Audubon House, and the "Little White House", where President Truman spent many a working vacation. Hop a catamaran to America's only living coral reef to snorkel with dolphins. Or climb into the open cockpit of a World War II biplane for an unforgettable aerial tour of the Keys.