Caribbean: Bahamas & Dominican Republic

Trade the glittering resorts, bustling promenades and city centers of other Caribbean ports for the refreshingly untamed landscapes of the Pedernales Province. Situated in the southwestern corner of the Dominican Republic near the border of Haiti, Cabo Rojo in this region is a nature lover’s dream destination. Travel from the unspoiled beaches, lagoons and mangrove forests dotting the coastline to dramatic mountains and hidden caverns beckoning you inland. Whether you wish to hike, snorkel, kayak, bird watch or sunbathe, finding your slice of paradise in the Pedernales Province is a breeze.

Incredibly white sands and cobalt blue seas make the small island of Aruba a popular destination. In the bustling freeport town of Oranjestad, sherbet-colored Dutch colonial buildings, draped in bougainvillea, oleander and hibiscus are simply picturesque. Small, but informative museums relate the island's history.

Walk around this quaint harbor town and you'll think you've travelled back in time to Old Amsterdam. Admire the colorful Dutch architecture and take advantage of the excellent shopping. Relax on 17-century veranda with a drink made with the famous Curaçao liqueur.

Puerto Plata (or officially known as San Felipe de Puerto Plata) is the ninth largest city in the Dominican Republic and the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. For spectacular city views, take a ride up the Pico Isabel de Torres mountain which stands over 2,600 feet high. History buff? Visit Fortaleza San Felipe, which was built in the 16th century and served as a prison under the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. Or head to the Amber Museum, a museum filled with a unique collection of valuable Dominican amber which is semiprecious tree sap that has hardened for millions of years capturing many fossils of plant and insect life.

Philadelphia was at the heart of the founding of the United States and therefore boasts numerous significant historical sites that history buffs will love. From Independence Hall to the Museum of the American Revolution and the Liberty Bell, you can travel back to America’s earliest days. But Philadelphia offers more than just its rich history. You can delight in a wide array of delicious eateries while searching for that perfect Philly cheesesteak, explore expertly crafted exhibits at renown museums and be immersed in the city’s vibrant culture while discovering unique neighborhoods. Or venture into the great outdoors at one of the numerous scenic parks surrounding the city and dip into a kayaking, tubing, or hiking adventure.