Spotlight on Central America

Written on Monday, November 19, 2018 by Emma Whiting Travel

Central America covers a vast area from Mexico to Panama. The region’s popularity has soared in recent times making it one of the world’s hottest travel destinations – no surprise, really, given it boasts white sand beaches, pristine wilderness, spectacular wildlife and cultural diversity. From Frida Kahlo to Che Guevara, salsa to rumba, turquoise atolls to live volcanoes, colonial suburbs to 21st century cities, the delights of this part of the world make for an unforgettable journey.

Visitors can choose from a range of travel modes that highlight the region’s most intriguing and stunning features. Cruising, escorted touring, and independent exploration is all possible. While some areas are harder to access than others (and some more desirable than others!), our first-hand knowledge can guide you in the right direction. We can tailor a journey that’s just right for you.
In the meantime, let us introduce you to a few of our favourites…

Havana, Cuba
A stroll through Cuba’s sultry capital Havana is like taking a step back in time. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, the city’s crumbling Spanish colonial architecture and Classic American cars provide rich fodder for the keen photographer in each of us. While it’s hard to put your camera away, do try or you’ll miss what’s behind them: fabulous cocktail bars, restaurants and boutique hotels waiting to be enjoyed. Be sure to order yourself a rum at one of Hemingway’s old haunts!

The Caribbean
When we asked Emma why she keeps returning to this part of the world, she smiled as if she was back there, sun-on-face, toes-in-sand, daiquiri-in-hand. She recalls feeling entirely carefree on the islands of Grand Cayman and Jamaica where she spent days floating in the clear turquoise waters, gazing out to white sand beaches and reading books beneath the shade of palm trees. She also developed a love of Jamaican music which was played late into the night at outdoor beach bars in Negril. With three visits to the Caribbean under her belt, one might assume Emma’s appetite for relaxation and reggae has been sated. Would she return? “In a heartbeat!” she replied. We’ll take that as a yes.

Tikal, Guatemala
Enjoy a tour of the spectacular Mayan site of Tikal, buried deep in the jungle. While you explore the many pyramids and temples, listen carefully to your guide as they explain the history, translate glyphs, and point out details you might otherwise miss. Experiencing a sunrise or sunset in the shadow of Tikal’s majesty is something you’ll never forget.

Coral Reef, Cozumel
Cozumel, an island in the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the best diving and snorkelling destinations in the world. Bright coral reefs teaming with fish attract visitors year-round. Although it is a divers’ mecca and a popular vacation resort, it remains a serene, quiet and undiscovered piece of paradise.