2012 FCCA 40th Anniversary Publication

ST. MAARTENST. MAARTEN HARBOUR GROUP OF COMPANIES

SAIL INTO OPPORTUNIT IES

FLORIDA-CARIBBEAN

CRUISEASSOCIAT ION

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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

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©2011 Princess Cruises. Ships of Bermudan Registry.

To learn more, see your travel agent, call 1-800-Princess, or visit princess.com.

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Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA)

11200 Pines Blvd., Ste 201, Pembroke Pines, FL 33026

Phone: (954) 441-8881 • Fax: (954) 441-3171

Website: www.f-cca.com • Email: [email protected]

© 2012 FCCA 40th Anniversary Publication. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction inwhole or in part, in any form, electronic or otherwise, without written permissionof the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association is prohibited.

FCCA Member Lines

AIDA Cruises • Azamara Club Cruises • Carnival Cruise Lines

Celebrity Cruises • Costa Cruise Lines • Cunard Line

Disney Cruise Line • Holland America Line

MSC Cruises (USA) Inc. • Norwegian Cruise Line • P&O Cruises

Princess Cruises • Royal Caribbean International • Seabourn

Bill Panoff President/Chief Executive Officer

Irene Panoff Chief Operations Officer

Jose I. Martin Chief Financial Officer

Linda Douthat Senior Vice President, Publishing

Mitch Pizik Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing

William P. Jordan III Vice President, Brand Marketing

Joke Soto Vice President, Port Revenue Operations

Mark Stowe Vice President, Port Revenue Programs

Tony Scarpa Financial Controller

Patti Lankford Executive Assistant to the CEO

Please address all correspondence to

FCCA 40th Anniversary, PPI Group, 6261 NW 6th Way, Suite 100

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 USA

Phone: (954) 377-7777 • Fax: (954) 377-7000

Email: [email protected]

Visit our website at www.ppigroup.com.

©2012 Panoff Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved

Printed in Canada

FCCA 40th Anniversary is published under contract to PPI Group. The contents ofthis magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction, either in whole or in part,but not limited to transmission by any means, in any form — digital, electronic,mechanical, photocopying or otherwise — is forbidden without express, writtenpermission from the publisher. The magazine assumes no responsibility for thesafekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photography, artwork or othermaterial. Electronic queries only will be acknowledged. Commentary and opinionsexpressed in FCCA 40th Anniversary are not necessarily those of the publisher, TheFlorida-Caribbean Cruise Association or its Member Lines. PPI Group and TheFlorida-Caribbean Cruise Association are not responsible for any claims or offers madein advertisements appearing in FCCA 40th Anniversary.

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D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C 5 1

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G U AT E M A L A 6 3

M A R T I N I Q U E 6 9

M E X I C O, P U E R T O C O S TA M AYA 7 5

N I C A R A G U A 8 1

PA N A M A 8 7

P U E R T O R I C O 9 3

S A I N T L U C I A 9 9

S T . M A A R T E N 1 0 5

T R I N I D A D & T O B A G O 1 1 1

U. S. V I R G I N I S L A N D S 1 1 7

U. S. A., H O U S T O N 1 2 3

Anniversaryth40

FLORIDA-CARIBBEAN CRUISE ASSOCIAT ION

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©Disney DCL-12-22103 Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas. All ship images and renderings are early concept art.

On board Disney Dream, and the soon-to-sail Disney Fantasy, thrilling ocean views from AquaDuck

are just the beginning. With relaxation for grown-ups, adventures just for kids, tweens and teens,

and spectacular family fun, there’s magic on board for all ages. And with renowned Disney service,

it’s truly the most magical cruise at sea. To learn more about our new ships and other exciting

destinations, go to disneycruise.com/fun, call 1-888-582-8146 or visit your Travel Agent.

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THE FCCA IS EXCITED TO CELEBRATE OUR 40-YEAR HISTORY through this special publication, and we thank PPI Group for makingthis happen in an extraordinary way. Through this commemorative book, we will venture through the last four decades and take a look at the FCCA’s humble beginnings, abrupt turn forward and constant evolution.

But perhaps more importantly, this publication will also examine and showcase a few of our destination partners throughout theCaribbean and Latin America. It is only because of the work done and relationships developed with the private and public sectors ofthese destinations that the FCCA has grown and progressed alongside these destinations; it has been a truly mutual growth.

We could not be prouder to see these destinations evolve their products and knowledge over the years, and we hope that our ownsuccesses and development has scratched the surface that they have covered.

Of course, we will not shy away from touching on some of those successes in our feature article, but you will probably learn that ourrelationships with these destinations, displayed by their presence in this publication, is one of our greatest feats.

I hope you enjoy this article and find something interesting, informative, entertaining or all of the above about the FCCA’s —and some of its destination partners’ — past, present and future.

Respectfully yours,

Michele M. PaigePresident, FCCA

WE ARE PLEASED TO PRESENT TO YOU A VERY SPECIAL 40TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE BOOK, designed to celebrate the longhistory of the FCCA and all that this organization has done for the cruising industry over the past four decades. It is truly incredible to followthe history of the FCCA and reflect on all the FCCA has done to foster lasting relationships between the cruise industry and destination partners.

Over the past 40 years, the FCCA has truly made an incredible impact on not only the cruise industry, but the places and people the cruiselines interact with. Some of our proudest accomplishments include increasing itinerary calls, initiating cruise projects to enhance destinationinfrastructure, increasing and enhancing tour offerings and selling local products to guests on board. We are also extremely proud of themillions of dollars we have contributed towards various projects throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, primarily to children'scauses. As an organization we stand committed to working with foundations, charities and other humanitarian programs to continue toimprove our cruise community for years and years to come.

I would also like to take this opportunity to personally thank PPI Group for putting together this very special commemorative book. The beautiful photos and insightful articles truly examine the development of the cruise industry and recount the journey that wehave been on in order to make this industry what it is today.

Please enjoy this special edition 40th Anniversary Commemorative Book. The following pages share the moments in our history that have ledus to where we are today. We hope that in joining us in this celebration of our history, you share the pride we have for all of our accomplishments.We hope that you treasure this book as a collector’s item and join us into the future as we create new milestones together.

Regards,

Kevin SheehanFCCA Chairman & Norwegian Cruise Line CEO

WELCOME MESSAGE

FCCA 40th Anniversary 6

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Modern Luxury is a trademark of Celebrity Cruises Inc. ©2012 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

i s :



THIS YEAR MARKS THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association. While basic math reveals thatthis places the FCCA’s origination at 1972, few people, evensome of the FCCA’s most long-standing Platinum Members,would have known or recognized the FCCA of yesteryear.

That is because in 1972, the FCCA was somewhat similarto the CEO roundtable it now hosts at its annual conferenceand trade show, only taking place entirely in private, a placefor the CEOs to exclusively get together and discuss thecurrent trends and state of affairs. At this time, the FCCAalso occasionally passed questions along to the cruiseindustry from the destinations. It had no other programs orfunctions. In fact, the president only served part-time.

FCCA Looks Back to Its History to Celebrate Its 40th Anniversary

It existed in this form until 1990, when there wasdiscontentment experienced by the destinations due to thelacking relationships between them and the cruise industry,along with a large misunderstanding about the cruise industryexhibited by the destinations’ private and public sectors.

The cruise lines were under heavy criticism from the destinationsbecause it was felt that the lines did not care about thedestination and its people; that the lines were unreachable andout of touch; that they were “Devils on the Deep Blue Sea.”Suffice it to say that the destinations and the people were nothappy with the cruise lines, so a change was needed.

That change resulted in the lines putting their support behindthe FCCA. One of the main problems was that neither side hadany connections in place to deal with anything outside of dailybusiness; the cruise lines only dealt with the port agent and acouple of tour operators, and the destinations only saw wavesof passengers and crew coming in without realizing the economic benefits or much else about the cruise industry.This is what the FCCA was now responsible for correcting.

It started by establishing face-to-face relationships, bybringing delegations of cruise executives to meet with thedestinations and for both sides to listen to each others’needs. According to Michele Paige, president of the FCCA,even these meetings represented a significant step in therelationships between the industry and the destinations. Top and Above: 1994 First FCCA Conference, Barbados

FCCA2012_010-15 FCCA 40 Years_Layout 1 8/30/12 12:01 PM Page 10


Once this advance was made, the FCCA and the industry were able to truly listen to the destinations. The Conference wasborn to bring together cruise line representatives and the destinations’ private and public sectors. Though it only had about300 attendees, 95 percent of which were from the private sector, the destinations saw that the lines were not inaccessibleand that they now had a ready response to any of their questions.

One of the things that was noticed was that many entities throughout the destinations lacked a crucial bit of insight. MickyArison, president & CEO of Carnival Corp., brought it to the surface during one of the first FCCA Executive Committee meetings,simply asking, “Don’t [the destinations] understand the economic impact the cruise industry brings?”

It was realized that they did not; they lacked the knowledge of the immense benefits and opportunities offered to theirdestination through the cruise industry, and the industry now had a mechanism in place to relay and showcase theimportance of the economic impact offered by the cruise industry — through cruise line spending, passenger and crewspending, return passengers and employment.

This is why the first training program was entitled Cruise Passengers Equal Profits; it focused on one of FCCA’s ongoingmandates — to help a destination maximize its potential. This is important to understand because it is an ongoing cycle. If a destination realizes how to emplace the proper structures and satisfy a cruise passenger’s needs, a passenger willspend more and enjoy their visit more, leading to better reviews, which the lines use to determining itineraries, leading toincreased calls and guests that return as land-based vacationers.

And it improved little by little with every meeting, every year, every Conference. Because these relationships were forgedand the FCCA supplied a constant conduit of information flowing to and from the lines and destinations, progress wasmade. As Paige says, “It was amazing how many things we were able to do together through purchasing, employment,marketing, opportunities, research, increase spending, improving the product and infrastructure, etc.”

These are the untapped mutual benefits that were finally being sought out. It was because of the relationships and communicationthat St. Maarten reached out before expanding from a tender port. In order to go from 200,000 passengers a year to more than amillion, it took an understanding of the needs of the industry and how to physically build a port of that magnitude — not just for theships of today and yesterday, but for tomorrow — along with how to facilitate vessels calling and passengers moving; tours goingoff and passengers picked up; and passengers’ enjoyment and spending.

It was also why Allen Chastanet, former St. Lucia minister of tourism, could set up a vocational school to train St. Lucian studentshow to work in the industry. And why the industry was able to sit down with St. Lucian hoteliers when they heard a rumor thatthe industry was not being held to the same standards for water usage. The issue was cleared because the forum was nowavailable, and the real sign of change was seen just a few years ago when a hurricane left the St. Lucian hoteliers in need ofwater that was saved by cruise lines offloading all of their available drinking water.

This leads to another area in which the FCCA and the cruise industry saw a necessity many years ago: communityneeds. So the FCCA Foundation was formed in 1994. This represented a chance to give back; to assist in times ofneed, after disaster strikes or to meet the daily needs of orphans and the underprivileged. It was also a way to showpresence and participation, so the FCCA became heavily involved in the Caribbean Special Olympics. Currently, besidessupporting the constant needs that arise, the FCCA Foundation brings happiness to thousands of underprivilegedchildren through gifts and holiday celebrations during its annual Holiday Gift Project. As Paige says, “We don’t live inthe community, but we can give back to their needs.”

Another of these needs was the providing of important information about the industry to our partners. Cruising, a four-page newsletter originated to fulfill this, served as a vehicle to give cruise industry information to the FCCA’sdestination partners.

The FCCA’s destination partners needed a voice and better contact with the cruise industry, so the Associate MembershipProgram came to be. This not just made clear who those partners actually were, it gave them access to the FCCA’s tools,

1995 FCCA Gala

1997 Seatrade

1999 FCCA Conference opening Puerto Rico

2003 Cayman Signing

2004 Barbados



which led to the development of instruments for this purpose. Ultimately, a specialized Platinum Membership broughttogether the premiere industry partners with cruise executives in events hosted by the FCCA, admittance to FCCA meetingsand ability to request meetings, and a wealth of other offerings.

All of the mechanisms that developed were put in place to establish and to sustain relationships with destinations, andthey have evolved as much as the needs themselves. The annual conference now has a trade show, sees over 1,000attendees, has extended the presence of cruise executives in both numbers and range of responsibilities and has a healthyattendance of private sector representatives.

The four-page newsletter has developed into a full-fledged quarterly magazine — Cruising Magazine — that gives a voiceto the industry, with a microphone for the destinations. It’s accompanied by multiple publications put forth by the FCCA tosupply further information to destination partners — the Membership Directory; the annual Overview, which gives the stateof the cruise industry and excerpts from CLIA’s Cruiser Market Profile Study’s cruise passenger profile, and specializedpublications that give destinations an opportunity to spread their news to the FCCA’s vital resources.

The Associate Membership Program has also shown the same type of advancement; there are now over 100 PlatinumMembers and 400 Associate Members from increasingly numerous destinations, some of which extend past the Caribbeanand Latin America. Moreover, members are not just using the resources of the cruise executives; there are often opportunitiesthat exist between members themselves, proving the true importance of the program.

Prominent cruise line presidents and CEOs have also come, served, made their indelible impacts and changed guards,and the FCCA owes a tremendous sum for all they have done in assisting the development of the FCCA, its programsand relationships. Richard Sasso was the FCCA’s chairman from 1991-2000, while also president & CEO of CelebrityCruises, currently acting as president & CEO of MSC Cruises (USA) Inc.; Micky Arison, chairman & CEO of CarnivalCorp., took the reigns from 2000-2010 and Kevin Sheehan, president & CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line, currently mansthe helm.

There has even been an expansion of sorts, with the FCCA stepping into Latin America. As Central America and Mexicobecame more prominent as cruise destinations, the work that the FCCA was doing — sitting down at meetings, workingwith the private sectors, planning developments — became more involved in those destinations. As increased numbers

2005 Puerto Rico Signing

2005 St. Kitts

2006 Cayman Islands

2007 Cozumel

2008 Trinidad & Tobago December 17, 2008, Roatan Orphanage and Hospital


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from those destinations attended the Conference, it became clear that the region would benefit from the FCCA’s specializedattention, so it added a Central America Conference in 2011 that will take place every other year and has had numerousmeetings in Mexico.

This represents the continual progression that is inherent to the FCCA, its partners and the nature of the industry. Beingrelationship-based means that the FCCA will continue to act in accord with its partners and assist with needs that arise.

Still, perhaps the greatest sign of the progression, according to Paige, is the fact that before anything happens that relatesto tourism in an FCCA-partnered destination, representatives sit down and talk to a delegation brought by the FCCA. Somuch mutual respect now exists that one side always informs the other before something happens, for instance a changein policy or taxes. Of course, this does not mean that the other side always has a chance to persuade officals to reversesuch policies, but this shows the change in perspective and the state of communication.

It also shows that the lines are truly open and there is finally a mutual understanding, which, if the past has shown anything,will lead to further mutual growth.

Yes, it has been quite a journey over the years, summarized well by the FCCA chairman and Norwegian Cruise Linepresident & CEO, Kevin Sheehan: “Over the course of its 40-year history, the FCCA has played a vital role in forginglasting relationships between the member cruise lines and the destinations in the Caribbean and beyond. As wecelebrate the accomplishments of the past, we also look forward to the future as the FCCA will continue to serve avital role in ensuring the success of all parties.”

No one knows what direction the industry would have headed if the relationships never formed, if the destinations continuedto have tension with the industry, but the route taken was one marked by progression, development, adaptation andrelationship-building. The story has nowhere neared its completion, but the characters and relationships are certainly inplace because of the headway made by the FCCA in partnership with the cruise lines and destinations. This significantgrowth can be seen in every FCCA meeting, event and publication, and all signs point to a happy ending.

Because of this, 2012, the FCCA’s 40th-year anniversary is a festive one and will hopefully serve as another milestone in a long, fruitful existence.

2009 St. Lucia

2010 Dominican Republic

2011 Puerto Rico CEOs

2012 Mexico Promissory Signing

FCCA Outreach ProjectFormer Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands Charles W.Turnbull receives a donation from the FCCA Foundation.


Azamara Club Cruises is a proud member of the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. family of cruise lines. Activities shown are conceptual, and will change depending on itinerary. ©2011 Azamara Club Cruises. Ships’ Registry: Malta.

Contact your Travel Professional or call 877.999.9553 AzamaraClubCruises.com/DestinationImmersion

A Z A M A RA G I VE S YOU MORE TIME

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On Azamara Club Cruises®, we know it takes time to fall in love with a destination. So we

offer longer stays, more overnights and night touring at destinations around the world

to let you tap our vast knowledge of every port and truly experience the culture. We call

it Destination ImmersionSM, and it allows our guests to not only visit a port, but also

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longer STAYS. more OVERNIGHTS. nightTOURING.

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Sunday 4:00pm Monte Carlo


QUEEN mary 2, Trans-Atlantic Crossing – After a standing ovation for the Cunard Royal Singers and Dancers, it was off to the Queen’s Room for a night of ballroom dancing.

Enjoy your own grand celebration – visit FeelFamousCunard.com to request a complimentary brochure or DVD, and explore Cunard’s QUEEN mary 2,® queen Victoria® and queen elizabeth.®

For information, contact your Travel Agent or call Cunard at (800) 728-6273. FEEL FAMOUS. SAIL CUNARD.

Legendary voyages since 1840: Trans-Atlantic Crossings - Americas - Mediterranean - Northern Europe - World Voyages

Ships’ registry: Bermuda. ©CUNARD 2012.

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Moving ForwardWELCOME TO THIS SPECIAL-EDITION 40TH ANNIVERSARY BOOK, our celebration of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association for all of its efforts in advancing the cruise industry andhelping those communities we call home. The FCCA isn’t recognized enough for what it has done over its illustrious history, and what better time than the organization turning The Big 4-O for us to pay them our admiration and respect in the best fashion we know possible — with a custom publication that can be treasured always.

The FCCA has long been a positive force in the cruising community, providing millions in fundingto causes and charities throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. The FCCA’s charitableexample has been, in a word, infectious; if you compare a list of the most successful entities in our industry with a list of the most philanthropic, you’ll see a telling and promising similarity … and we at PPI Group see ourselves right there with cruising’s best.

For more than a decade, our annual Porthole Golf Classic garnered national and international support from many associates, colleagues and friends who wanted to assist in finding a cure for breast and lung cancer. In total, we raised more than $1.1 million. Some of the proceeds also went to the Porthole Children’s Fund. When money wasn’t enough, we’ve taken up food and clothing collections for local community shelters, participated in the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life, and — when they’ve allowed me a microphone — even offered our auctioneering services to numerous charity events, including those run by St. Jude’s Hospital, Miami/South Florida Camillus House and Jackson Memorial Foundation. We’ve always been inspired by those we’ve helped and, moving forward, hope to find inspiration in even more places.

The idea of “moving forward” has been PPI Group’s motto this past year. As you’re reading this here at the 2012 FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, we’re actually enjoying our first full week in our new Fort Lauderdale headquarters. Next time you’re in town, we’d love for you stop by so we can show off our new digs. Now in our 25th year, we’re even better suited to meet the individual and varied needs of the clients we value so dearly. Unique publications, engaging broadcasts, entertaining promotions, personalized customer service — our services are absolutely limitless.

Which brings us to PPI Group’s new logo. It’s our new look for the brighter future we will always move toward. We hope that in 2027, when we look back at our first 40 years, we’ll have as much to be proud of as the FCCA does today in 2012.

May this book serve as a treasured keepsake to remind us of the many momentous accomplishments past, and a beloved guide for the promising future ahead.

Bill PanoffPPI Group President and [email protected]


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With PPI Group, your audience is our audience. We strive to entertain and inform, be it through beautiful photography and engaging articles or through thoughtful videos of experiences to share. All the while, our captive audience becomes yourmotivated audience, inspired to get out there and savor life in ways only our clients can make possible.

Your opportunities await.

Smartphones and tablets open the door to opportunity not only at home, but anywhere in the world. Our publications, for instance, utilize scan tags to expand the reach of eachfeature and help tell each tale via promotional videos or applicable links. Our shoppingapps offer a customized map for every port, providing an invaluable directory in the palm of every hand. And digital editions of our publications only further personalize the feeling ofcomplete immersion.

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Our award-winning custom videos showcase products and ports, and then go evenfurther by intricately tying each valued good or service to a specific destination throughcommercials, sales promotions, demos, shore excursion experiences, employee training,and product marketing — all tailored to inspire viewers. We present an opportunity topurchase exclusive goods and cherish lasting memories. And since our port shopping,marketing, and promotional programs rely upon client loyalty, our customer service makes every effort to exceed expectations and build that loyalty directly.

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FCCA2012_020-25 Aruba_Layout 1 8/31/12 10:36 AM Page 20

ARUBA


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ARUBA, AN ISLAND SCULPTED BY THE WIND AND WARMED BY ITS PEOPLE, has plenty to offer to both first timers andthose who return year after year. It is a true vacationer’s paradise ideally nestled in the southernmost outer fringes of theCaribbean hurricane belt, with average annual temperatures of 82°F, but constant cooling trade winds make even the hottestdays comfortable. Aruba is 19.6 miles long and 6 miles across at its widest point.

The Port of Aruba, managed by the Aruba Ports Authority N.V., is conveniently located in Oranjestad, a charming cosmopolitantown that is currently going through an exciting multi-million dollar renovation process, an urban and neighborhood renewalproject called “Bo Aruba” (Your Aruba) to upgrade, beautify and revitalize the downtown area. Facilities such as a centralizedplaza, restaurants, cafés and water fountains will play an integral role in attracting visitors, as well as locals, making Oranjestada “one happy, fascinating city” day and night.

As a cruise destination, Aruba offers a variety of unforgettable experiences:

Find Your Happy…Bon Bini to ArubaW A L K T H R O U G H H I S T O R YCruise passengers can walk through both ancient and modern history in downtown Oranjestad. Fort Zoutman, the oldestbuilding, was completed in 1798, when Aruba was still frequented by pirates. As a means of defense, Governor Lauffer builta fort with a good view of the sea, named for a Dutch rear admiral.

The tower was added in 1868 with the first public clock; it would also serve as a lighthouse because it had a spire with apetrol lamp bearing King Willem III’s name, which was first lit on his birthday in 1869. The fort ultimately lost its significanceas a means of defense, but commerce converted Oranjestad into the capital city and residence of the local government.

The Historical Museum in the fort houses a collection depicting the history and development of Aruba up to the 1920s, whenthe LAGO oil refinery came to Aruba. The museum is open from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and is frequentlyvisited by schools, tourists and locals. The Bon Bini Festival, with dancing, arts and crafts stands and local food, is held hereevery Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. An engaging emcee introduces traditionally costumed folkloric dancers, local musicalgenres such as the mazurka and the waltz, and instruments such as the cuarta (four-stringed rhythmic guitar), wiri, raspu andcaja di orgel, a wind-up barrel organ called the “ting-a-ling box.” The rhythmic music of the steel pan, originally developed inthe English Caribbean from oil drums, also adds a touch of local color. The works of talented artists and artisans are on sale,as are authentic culinary specialties.

Aruba’s autonomous status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands (status aparte) was realized through the vision of leaders honoredwith statues. The process began in 1923, with Jan Hendrik Albert (Henny) Eman, who sought to free Aruba from Curaçao and theNetherlands Antilles. His statue is in front of the Parliament building. One of his grandsons became Aruba’s first Prime Minister onJanuary 1, 1986; another is Aruba’s current Prime Minister. Together with his father, Henny, Shon A. Eman voiced the desire ofAruba to stand on its own two feet. During a 1948 conference in the Hague, this esteemed statesman presented a petition with2,147 signatures requesting independence from Curaçao, commemorated by the statue next to the Parliament building. GilbertoFrançois (Betico) Croes, known as “liberator of Aruba,” was the dynamic politician who renewed the fight for status aparte in the1960s, finally realized on January 1, 1986. The Main Street bears his name, as does the large plaza with his statue behind the Talkof the Town Resort. Facing the Governor’s house on L. G. Smith Boulevard is Queen Wilhelmina Park. She ruled the Netherlands formore than 50 years until 1962, longer than any other Dutch monarch. The statue of Boy Ecury is found on L. G. Smith Boulevard justpast town. With the outbreak of World War II, this Aruban teenager joined the resistance in Holland. Captured by German SecretPolice, this young hero was sentenced to death, as he refused to reveal the names of his comrades.

The Archeological Museum is located two blocks east of the Oranjestad bus station. The historic Ecury family complex is now a modern archeological museum. Great care has been taken to preserve the beauty and historic character of the original buildings.


The museum is devoted to Amerindian culture andarchaeological finds from various digs around Aruba. The threeperiods of Amerindian habitation are documented: Pre-Ceramicperiod of 2500 B.C. – A.D. 1000, when semi-nomadic bands ofAmerindians migrated from the South American mainland;Ceramic Period of the Caquetio Indians, the hunters-fishers-gatherers who inhabited Aruba from A.D. 900 – A.D. 1515 untilenslaved and taken to Hispaniola; and the Historic Period from1515 – 1880. The Amerindians left behind ornaments, shells,ceramics, amulets and burial practices. There is a built-to-scalereplica of a maloca hut of 1000 years ago; the second floor isdedicated to cultural and religious practices.

The Office of Monuments is housed in a landmark buildingnext to the new Archeological Museum. There are 24restored landmark buildings in walking distance. The streetsrun in a circular pattern, as commerce began in the harbor,and the downtown area was built out around it. Amongthem is the green stadhuis now housing the City Hall, wherelegal marriages are performed.

G E T O U T O F T O W N !The Arikok National Park is a natural preserve that covers one-fifth of Aruba and encompasses the three geologicalformations that have shaped the island and its history. Arikokis home to all of Aruba’s animals, including the santanero(harmless cat-eyed snake); eight species of lagadishi (lizards),including the dinosaur-like iguana; and the unassuming pegapega (gecko). You may view a passing shoco (burrowing owl)and some vividly hued birdlife, as well as buricos (wilddonkeys), cabritos (free-ranging goats) and scurrying cottontailrabbits. Cacti in all shapes and sizes dot the desert landscape.

The 620-foot-high Mount Jamanota towers over Arikok’srugged red dirt roads and unforgiving terrain. The irregularnorth coast has gaps and inlets that have formed suchintriguing retreats as Fuente, Daimari, Andicuri and Wairuri.Dos Playa has a wide beach, but very rough surf, as doesBoca Prins, a secluded cove fringed by sugary white sanddunes. The natural pool is tranquil and protected by rocksamidst some of the most rugged terrain.

Natural bridges have been carved out of rock along the north coastby millennia of pounding surf, as have caves, some of which bearinternationally recognized Indian rock drawings. Fontein is thelargest and most easily accessible; natural light penetrates theceiling of the Quadirikiri cave, creating an eerie effect. Ruins ofthe Miralamar Gold Mill date back to Aruba’s gold rush in theearly 20th century. Agricultural areas include Cunucu Arikok atthe foot of Mount Arikok with a cas di torto (mud house); theformer Prins coconut plantation; and Hofi Fontein with its natural



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spring. There is an extensive network of 20 miles of hiking trails within the park; tours are available through park rangers. Be sure to follow park rules; wear a cap; use sunscreen; bring adequate water; wear sturdy shoes; and don’t swim in rough waters.

Other popular Aruba attractions for the whole family include the Aloe Factory, Donkey Sanctuary, Ostrich Farm, Butterfly Farm,Atlantis Submarine and De Palm Island. Tours are available by jeep or air-conditioned coach.

S H O P T I L L Y O U D R O P !Shopping in Aruba is an exhilarating experience. Luxury malls with prestigious international brands are accompanied by glittering new shopping/entertainment centers.

There’s more gold downtown than any of Aruba’s old prospectors could have ever imagined; a dazzling maze of jewelry storesmeanders through downtown Oranjestad, peppered by attractive malls and shops and a Main Street soon to be accessible bytram. Royal Plaza is the three-storied pink and white structure overlooking the harbor with shops specializing in apparel, gifts,linens, jewelry and more. Renaissance Mall is home to an exclusive international collection of luxury retailers of simply fabulousready-to-wear clothes and accessories. Complementing one-of-a-kind shops, Renaissance Marketplace boasts restaurants andcoffee houses, a movie theatre, a casino and live entertainment.

In the high-rise hotel area, Paseo Herencia woos shoppers with liquid fireworks, synchronized swimmers, Carnaval shows, live music and movie theatres while they explore the eclectic roster of fifty retailers. Palm Beach Mall is home to shops of all kinds,as well as restaurants, a food court, kids’ activities, live entertainment and a neon bowling alley. In addition to shopping, The Villageoffers gourmet dining, entertainment and popular bars and fun spots. South Beach Centre includes gift, apparel, jewelry and souvenirstores, as well as bars, cafes and diverse international restaurants.

Buy some “Made in Aruba” products that include local beer (Balashi) and spirits (coecoei, ponche crema, rum), hot sauce, aloe beauty products, cigars, music CDs, artwork, handicrafts and photography. Don’t leave without sampling a pastechi, the golden-fried turnover with savory fillings, which is the national snack.

A A A H H H ! T H E B E A C H E SAruba offers world-renowned sparkling white sandy beaches fringed by clear turquoise waters and swaying palms, cooled by constanttrade winds. All beaches are open to the public. Some resorts offer special arrangements for cruise passengers to use their beach andfacilities. Across from the downtown Talk of the Town Resort are the calm waters of Nikky Beach. Going north is Eagle Beach, a popular public beach just past the low-rise resort area voted No. 3 in TripAdvisor’s Top 25 beaches in the world. Palm Beach isdotted by water sports concessions, piers, restaurants, shops and world-class high-rise hotels. Hadicurari Beach (Fisherman’s Huts)out past the Marriott Resort is a kite surfer’s oasis. Malmok Beach is a narrow sandy stretch opposite sprawling homes; its shallowclear waters make it a popular snorkeling spot, as is Arashi Beach further north; an area called Boca Catalina is a small, secluded bay.

On the way to San Nicolas are the beaches of Savaneta, Aruba’s first capital, now a fisherman’s haven. Mangel Haltois a small beach among the mangroves of Pos Chikito and its nearby canals and small bridges. Out past San Nicolas, in SeroeColorado, Baby Beach, is a half-moon sandy expanse in a calm shallow lagoon; where the bay opens out to the sea, snorkelerswill behold a colorful kaleidoscope of sea life. Because of strong undertow and crashing waves, swimming on the windwardside is not recommended, but beaches there afford breathtaking panoramas and tranquillity.

F A B U L O U S F O O DAruba’s food is deliciously extraordinary, served at more than 200 restaurants. Take this opportunity to enjoy some traditionalAruban cooking with Amerindian, African, Latin and European influences; keshi yena is a gouda cheese with savory chickenfilling; hearty goat stew is a feel-good, finger-licking entrée. Local catch such as wahoo and mahi-mahi are the freshestpossible. Other local specialties include Johnny Cakes (fried, puffy biscuits), pan bati (Aruban cornbread), hearty soups andstews, and funchi (polenta). From jerk ribs and fajitas, brick-oven pizzas, curries, homemade pastas and racks of lamb to rawseafood bars, Black Angus steaks, churrasco and prime rib, Aruba’s menus are diverse and unique … and venues are no lesseclectic. Choose a rustic steak or seafood house, casual eatery, trendy restaurant/lounge, elegant townhouse, trattoria,sidewalk café, chalet, sprawling manor house, golf clubhouse, cunucu house or al fresco beachfront, poolside or pier restaurant.



An Experience Like Nowhere Else.

To learn about all the exciting ways to spend your day at Atlantis, please visit our cruise partners’ websites: Carnival Cruise Lines | Disney Cruise Lines | MSC Cruise Lines | Norwegian Cruise Lines | Royal Caribbean International

Or to begin offering these Atlantis Excursions through your cruise line, please contact [email protected].

Thrill seekers, get ready for Aquaventure, the Caribbean’s largest and most spectacular waterpark.

With �� acres of exciting water slides and river rides, you can take on the Power Tower, plunge from the Mayan Temple, or float on a mile-long river journey

before unwinding at one of �� pools. Delight in a Beach Day, along miles of white sandy beaches. Feeling lucky? Try your hand at the hundreds of slots and

table games in the Caribbean’s largest casino. Retail enthusiasts can shop the Crystal Court for haute couture or stroll Marina Village, a quaint, cobblestone

plaza, surrounding the world-class Atlantis Marina. �� million gallons of fun awaits you at Atlantis. Will you come out and play?

Crystal Court Marina Village 80 Table Games 800 Slots

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ATLANTIS, PARADISE ISLAND IS A UNIQUE DESTINATION FEATURING THE WORLD’S LARGEST OPEN-AIR MARINE HABITAT, SECOND ONLY TO MOTHER NATURE.

IT IS HOME TO MORE THAN 50,000 SEA ANIMALS LIVING IN 14 EXHIBIT LAGOONS. NO MATTER WHAT YOUR IDEA OF FUN IS, YOU WILL SURELY FIND IT AT ATLANTIS.

ONLY AT ATLANTIS, PARADISE ISLAND IN THE BAHAMAS can you splash into Aquaventure, the Caribbean’s largest waterpark,with 20 million gallons of thrilling waterslides and river rides spread out over a 141-acre water park. First, if you dare, takethe Leap of Faith, a 60-foot near-vertical drop into shark-infested waters. Challenge a friend to a high-speed splashdown!Race your friends down the twin high-speed Challenger Slides of the Mayan Temple, and then check your speeds on the timeclocks at the bottom to see who won! Brave the 120-foot Power Tower for even more twists and turns on one of 3 tube ridesor a body slide that drops you into darkness and ends in a cavern full of alligator gar. Or embark on an amazing mile-long riverride through four-foot rolling waves, river rapids and mysterious caves. Two conveyors transport you up the river and onto thethrilling slides of the Power Tower. Or simply relax in one of 11 refreshing pools. Whatever your mood, we’ve got the pool foryou. From serene and peaceful to an international party vibe with live DJ, you will find the pool that suits your personality andidea of a day well spent. For the younger crowd, Atlantis offers three dedicated children’s pools. Designed with the youngestin mind, Splashers is an elaborate Mayan-themed children’s pool and water playground featuring three tube slides and a side-by-side slide, cargo nets and rope bridges for climbing and water cannons, fountains and water wheels for endlesssoaking. With a maximum depth of 3 feet, parents need not worry about keeping pool areas off-limits. Rental lockers andcomplimentary towels are available for cruise guests through the Hospitality Center.

Atlantis - An Experience Like Nowhere Else


Of course, if pristine white sand beaches call you, reserve yourAtlantis Beach Day. Relax and enjoy all-day access to thepristine white sand and crystal blue water of Atlantis’exclusive beaches. A complimentary beach day bag is alsoincluded. Every beach has its own unique allure and charm.There are three inviting beaches available to guests ofAtlantis, Paradise Island. Whether you settle down on CoveBeach, Paradise Lagoon or Atlantis Beach, you’ll find powder-soft sand and a spectacular vista of azure water waiting foryou. Just follow a path to the water’s edge, kick off your shoesand give the sand a toe-wiggle test. If you like what you seeand feel, stake a claim. This program includes access to thebeaches and marine habitats of Atlantis; however, access tothe pools, slides and rides are not included.

The legend of Atlantis comes to life on the Discover AtlantisTour. Journey through The Dig, an archeological excursionwhere mythical artifacts are “preserved” among stunning marinelife. There’s only one place in the world where you can embarkon an adventure through the streets and tunnels of the fabulouslost city of Atlantis while viewing stunning marine life exhibits.Reflecting the tunnels and thoroughfares of the lost continent,The Dig features habitats for exotic marine life like piranhas,iridescent jellyfish, six-foot moray eels and six species ofenormous groupers. And in separate, smaller “Jewel Habitats,”multitudes of brilliantly colored tropical fish dwell. Visitors shouldplan ahead and remember not to miss the interactive touch tankaquarium filled with conch, starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbersand horseshoe crabs and designed to encourage vacationerinteraction. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

W A N T T O G E T E V E N C L O S E R ? Then Snorkel the Ruins of Atlantis in the world’s largestopen-air marine habitat. This thrilling 60-minute programincludes an amazing 30-minute snorkeling adventure amidthe sunken ruins and artifacts of the lost city of Atlantis.You’re bound to see sleek sharks, spotted rays andthousands of tropical fish as you snorkel your way throughthe Ruins lagoon. The Stingray Experience provides anamazing hands-on encounter with hundreds of sleekstingrays and colorful, tropical fish. Guests have the uniqueopportunity to feed rays in a shallow lagoon not accessibleto the general public, followed by an engaging snorkelamong these wonderful animals. This is a 45-minuteprogram with a limited group size of up to 8 people andminimum age requirement of 5 years.

No trip to Atlantis would be complete without a visit toDolphin Cay, an extraordinary 14-acre habitat offeringvisitors an amazing, up-close experience with Atlanticbottlenose dolphins and friendly Californian and South





American sea lions. Our Shallow Water Interaction lets guests of all ages go nose-to-nose with these remarkable animals.Touch, splash and play away with your delightful new sea friend. This program is open to guests of all ages, but children 10 and under must have an adult participating in the interaction with them. For even more excitement, try a Deep Water Swim.

Glide and snorkel alongside a dolphin with a hand-held water scooter. At the end of your visit, these powerful animals offer visitors a “foot push” across the lagoon on a boogie board. Guests must be at least 10 years or older and beable to swim in deep water without support vests or assistance. Alternatively, guests can purchase a Dolphin Cay Beach Pass,which includes unlimited access to the private beach with all-day beach service, complimentary non-alcoholic refreshments,beach towels, private restrooms and showers.

Jump in for a splash in our Sea Lion Interaction. Hug, touch, or even kiss your new friend as you pose for a keepsake photo. Visitorswill tour the state-of-the-art marine facility and rescue center before stopping to pose for pictures with their new sea lion friends.Limited to just 12 guests, this intimate interaction begins with an orientation and includes 30 minutes in the water. Wetsuits, personallockers, beach towels and non-alcoholic refreshments are provided, along with all-day access to Dolphin Cay’s private beach.

B U T I T ’ S W H A T ’ S I N S I D E T H A T C O U N T SDuring your day at Atlantis, you will be sure to work up an appetite from all the waterslides, rides, pools and programs on offer. And rest assured, you won’t be at a loss for choice. From barbecue to local Bahamian cuisine and some familiarnames like Johnny Rockets, Quizno’s and Starbucks, you are sure to find something to tempt your palette. There are more than 14 poolside options, including two full-service restaurants in the waterscape. For those with a sweet tooth, stroll over to Marina Village for some Ben & Jerry’s ice cream or an enormous selection of candy and sweets at Oh Sugar!

For the shopper at heart, Atlantis has an amazing array of stores to choose from. The haute couture shops of Marina Villageand the Crystal Court and Escape at The Cove provide a shopper’s paradise. You will find the high-end names you know andlove from Versace, Gucci, Ferragamo and John Bull to unique and colorful boutiques from Calypso Carousel to the Plait Lady,offering handmade products from fine Bahamian craftsmen. Or if you’d like to take home a reminder of your day at Atlantis,there are several signature shops located around property offering everything from Atlantis-branded clothing to books andother keepsakes. And best of all, shopping at Atlantis is duty-free!

It’s all waiting at Atlantis. A lifetime of memories, all in a single-day excursion.

To book one of the amazing Atlantis programs listed here, see your cruise line shore excursion representative.



JOY IS THE ONLY PROTOCOL IN THIS PORT O’ CALL.

A WORLD AWAY. JUST ONE HOUR FROM MIAMI.

VISIT WWW.CAYMANKIND.COM GRAND CAYMAN LITTLE CAYMANCAYMAN BRAC

Recognised as the #1 Travel Destination in the Caribbean & Mexico by TripAdvisor travellers.

As a leading partner of the FCCA and the cruise industry, the Cayman Islands is thrilled to welcome your

clients to our friendly shores. Whether they’re interested in spending a day touring some of our more

famous attractions, like the Cayman Turtle Farm, Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park or Pedro St. James

Castle, visiting the scores of duty free shops, restaurants and cultural sites in downtown George Town,

or simply whiling away the hours on legendary Seven Mile Beach, your clients will marvel at how much

there is to see and do in our little corner of paradise.

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RECOGNIZED AS THE TOP TRAVEL DESTINATION in the Caribbean by TripAdvisor’s informed travelers, the Cayman Islandspromises a superlative Caribbean escape like no other. World-renowned for its beautiful beaches, stunning underwater scenery,amazing attractions and distinctive charm, the Cayman Islands provide some of the Caribbean’s finest infrastructure andamenities, offering all of the ingredients for the perfect island experience.

With a total landmass of about 100 square miles, the Cayman Islands — made up of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and LittleCayman — is a magnet for visitors, attracting almost two million curious or loyal sun-seeking tourists annually.

When it comes to shopping in the Cayman Islands, choice is a strong currency, and visitors need look no further than thevibrant port capital of George Town, where they can wander through the bustling streets and experience the islands’ richculture. With a wide range of stores and outlets ranging from the small and quaint to the modern and expansive storefrontsalong the waterfront, shopping opportunities are abundant and seductive. The Cayman Craft Market is a particular favorite,where guests can browse through decorative shell or Caymanite jewelry, fun woven totes and hats and stock up on islanddelicacies, such as sea salt, pepper jelly and hot sauce.

A casual stroll through George Town will also connect visitors with some of the best duty-free shopping and widest array ofluxury goods to be found in a Caribbean port, including dazzling jewelry, authentic treasure coins, china, crystal and the verylatest in fragrances.

Several galleries and gift shops also offer local arts and crafts and quality gifts. Souvenirs and mementos are easy to find ina variety of locations. Visitors are encouraged to peruse the abundantly stocked shops — including fun t-shirts from One TreeFour Five and tastings of rum cakes at the Tortuga Rum Company — and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the unique SevenFathoms Rum distillery. Alternatively, stop by Guy Harvey’s Grand Cayman gallery to study his famous paintings and hear abouthis dedicated conservation efforts from the renowned artist himself.

The Charm of the Cayman Islands by Cruise


In addition to the waterfront stores along Grand Cayman’sfamed Seven Mile Beach, several plazas and mini shoppingmalls offer everything from designer clothing and sportinggoods to beach and resort wear.

The recently developed town of Camana Bay, which featuresa mix of international brands and local retailers, is home toGrand Cayman’s newest shopping experience and offers acomplete range of luxury goods, everyday necessities andbeyond the ordinary gifts.

A B I T O F H I S T O R YA visit to George Town would not be complete without takingthe opportunity to learn about Cayman’s natural and culturalhistory at the Cayman Islands National Museum. Convenientlylocated on the waterfront, overlooking the Caribbean Sea, thisbeautiful structure dating back to the 19th century formerlyserved as the town’s court house, jail, parliamentary centerand primary school. Today, the museum's collection containsmore than 8,000 items, ranging from tiny coins to a 14-footcatboat, natural history specimens and rare documents, and isa place of learning and enjoyment. The museum’s gift shopoffers an array of quality memorabilia, and the picturesquecourtyard of the Gaol House café specializes in delicioustropical drinks, local ice cream and snacks.

For those looking to explore the underwater world, theCayman Islands also offers an opportunity to introduce visitors to its pristine waters and marine life with AtlantisSubmarines. These unique vessels explore the depth ofCayman’s waters, from the teeming shallow reefs andshipwrecks of George Town harbor to the magnificent coralcanyons at 100 feet. The glass bottom boats offer anothergreat way to explore the Cayman Islands’ extensive andcolorful marine life without making a splash.

To sample another side of the Cayman Islands, step aboardthe Jolly Roger for an afternoon of swashbuckling fun. Riskpossible pirate trials, sword fights, plank walks and even anattack on your cruise ship to make it back to shore!

Just a short distance from George Town, visitors will discover endless island adventures. From swimming withstingrays at the world famous Stingray City to cruising withdolphins at Dolphin Cove and Dolphin Discovery to learningabout turtles at the Cayman Turtle Farm, parents andchildren alike are sure to enjoy these once-in-a-lifetimeencounters with the destination’s vibrant marine life.Stingray City, Cayman’s premier attraction, invitesadventurers to join stingrays in their natural habitat andenjoy up-close interactions with these unique animals.



At Dolphin Cove and Dolphin Discovery, guests will befriendAtlantic Bottlenose Dolphins and can participate in excitingrides and affectionate kisses. Visitors will see the rare seaturtle in every stage of growth at the Cayman Turtle Farmbefore discovering nurse sharks and barracudas in thePredator Tank, admiring the colorful birds of the apiary, andsplashing around in the Breaker’s Lagoon water park,featuring the Cayman Islands’ largest swimming pool!

The nearby Cayman Motor Museum is also worth the trip.From a line of red Ferraris to the original Batmobile, themuseum offers 80 classic vehicles, including the firstautomobile ever produced, an 1886 Benz, and the first carever driven in the Cayman Islands, a 1905 Cadillac.

History buffs can discover the birthplace of democracy in theCayman Islands at the historic home of Pedro St. James, amuseum and preserved estate. Visitors will learn aboutCayman’s rich 200-year history through an engaging multimediatheater presentation on Pedro St. James before stepping intohistory in the plantation’s great house and meandering throughthe estate’s grounds, enjoying striking ocean views.

The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park offers a place ofmagnificence with its breathtaking displays of native floraand fauna. Highlighted exhibits inside the park include theFloral Color Garden, the Woodland Trail and Orchids in thePark. A trip to the Blue Iguana Recovery program is also afun way to learn about Cayman’s indigenous blue iguanasand the immensely successful efforts that have rescuedthese beautiful animals from the brink of extinction.


F O O D F O R T H O U G H TAmong its many appealing qualities, the Cayman Islands has the added ingredient of some of the finest diningfound in combination with sun, sea and tropical landscapes. With more than 150 restaurants and a variety oflocal and international culinary events every year, the Cayman Islands is justifiably considered as the culinarycapital of the Caribbean.

Food lovers will find everything to satisfy the appetite, ranging from internationally acclaimed signature restaurants toindependent boutiques and small local diners that serve everything from international cuisine to traditional Caymaniandishes. From casual beachside lunches to sunset dinners or elaborate banquets, the Cayman Islands offers the rightplaces and delicacies to suit every palate. Even without leaving George Town, visitors can enjoy an eclectic array of fineculinary options ranging from traditional Caymanian seafood and Caribbean fare to Thai, Italian and New World cuisine.

Gourmets will love the farm-to-table fare at Brasserie by Chef Dean Max, while the more casually inclined willappreciate the laid-back atmosphere at island favorite The Lobster Pot, which boasts spectacular ocean views.

For those looking to simply lounge on the beach, Seven Mile Beach promises sweeping white sand and turquoisewater. Guests can lie in the sand, soaking up the sun and sipping on a perfectly chilled Cayman Mama cocktail whileenjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the public beach and local bar, Calico Jack’s.

The Cayman Islands is a truly diverse destination, and Caymanians are widely considered to be warm and friendlypeople who love to share their culture and spirit of “Caymankindness” with visitors. The islands are committed tobeing a responsible destination and to preserving their heritage through sustainable development. Travelers lookingfor greener holiday alternatives will be impressed to learn that much is being done throughout the Cayman Islandsto induce greener travel options and protect the pristine environment for future generations.

In addition to the sandy white beaches, swaying palm trees that beckon visitors to relax, and an average year-roundtemperature of 82°F, the Cayman Islands can offer a diversity of experiences that few other sun-kissed islands inthe Caribbean can, all in one package.

To learn more about this irresistible Caribbean cruise escape and book your Cayman Islands trip, visitwww.caymankind.com.




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COLOMBIA IS A PLACE, AN EMOTION, that you approachsomewhat cautiously, but once you experience it, you won’twant to leave.

In recent years, Colombia has established an image ofstability as a result of aligning economic growth anddevelopment with the environment and the population ofeach region. Because of increased security and growth inthe tourism industry, cruise ships stopping in Colombia’sports are becoming an integral part of a traveler’s itinerary.

Colombia’s port cities provide a variety of experiences forcruise passengers, from the vibrant contemporary city ofCartagena de Indias to Santa Marta, the magical and oldestcity on continental America and a site where Indian culturalheritage and an extraordinary diversity of landscapes andbeaches are mixed together.

Colombia: The Only Risk Is Wanting to StayCARTAGENA DE INDIAS

Founded in 1533 with only 200 inhabitants on a wide,sheltered harbor on the Caribbean coast, Cartagena de Indiashas grown tremendously and today boasts approximately900,000 residents, making it Colombia’s fifth-largest city. The high, salt-bleached walls that circumscribe its Old Citywere built to thwart pirates and privateers during the heightof the Spanish colonial era in the 1600s. The Old Citypreserves the rich history and culture Colombia provides,while the rest of the seaport pulsates like a salsa party withtrendy hotels and restaurants, designer boutiques, emeraldshops and sizzling nightlife. With all that is going on in thismodern hub with historical significance, it’s now a UNESCOWorld Heritage site, and it truly is paradise.

EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN CARTAGENA

G A R C I A M A R Q U E Z A U D I O T O U RFeatured in Frommer’s as “One of 7 Ways to Experience the Bestof Colombia,” this audio tour is a fantastic way to see Cartagenaand learn about Gabriel Garcia Marquez, a Nobel Laureate.

Undoubtedly, Cartagena embodies the literary history andlife of Marquez. An audio-guided tour available in fivedifferent languages will fascinate and entertain throughoutthis captivating historical city. Since this tour can beexperienced simultaneously by up to 1,200 people, it’s afantastic way to get close to the monuments in Cartagena’s



historical heritage. The tour’s street locations evoke the presence of Marquez himself. For this reason, Cartagena is a placewhere reality mingles with magic. (www.tierramagna.com $35)

H E L I C O T O U R SOperated by Robinson Helicopter Company, Cartagena Helicopter Tours are a fantastic way to catch a bird’s-eye view of thecity. Gazing from spectacular heights, those partaking in one of the three different tour packages will not miss out on seeingthe marvelous beaches, the wall-encased city and the panoramic view of the bay.

R O S A R I O I S L A N D SHemmed-in by ramparts, stone towers and the relentless surf of the sea, Cartagena is the gateway to the Rosario Islands,a cluster of 43 coral isles that extend into the Caribbean and are protected as a marine national park. There are few sandybeaches in the Parque Nacional Corrales del Rosario, and it is possible in nearby Baru — the largest island in the area —to hit the waves at Playa Blanca. This white stretch of powdery beach is ideal for sunbathing, and although it can getcrowded with Cartagena day-trippers, its natural setting, the abundance of sun and cold beers more than justify the boatride from the historic city.

Pint-sized and picture-perfect, Islas del Rosario is a great destination for a day or weekend adventure. Drive along a sand-splashed coastal vista or simply relax at the beach. Snorkel with the fish while the turquoise-hued water sparkles around you.One of Colombia’s 46 natural parks, this island group was built in order to protect one of the most important coral reefs of theCaribbean coast and the marine species that inhabit it. If beautiful landscapes, sun and beach are not enough for you, thereis also a great selection of water sports to partake in, as well as delectable cuisine options for dining.


SANTA MARTALocated in the most beautiful bay in the Americas, SantaMarta is the epicenter of tourism in a region that, in only a150-mile radius, covers an exuberant ecosystem of varyingclimate and natural and geographical zones, from thehighest coastal mountaintops in the world, La SierraNevada, to the depths of the sea.

Santa Marta is best known today as an adventuredestination and is graced by the world’s tallest seasidemountain that rises over three miles. Santa Marta, the SierraNevada, the bay and all the surroundings are full ofindescribable magic. To begin with, Santa Marta is theoldest city in South America and holds an unrivalledarchitectural heritage that evokes the times of the bananabonanza. A perfect paradise for your next vacation.

The area is home to more than 30,000 indigenous peoplefrom five of the most important native groups in SouthAmerica: the Kogui, the Arhuacos, the Wiwa, the Arzariosand the Kankuamos. Even though each group has its ownunique language, each considers itself to be born to theMother of the Universe, the ancestral deity. Because of thisunique mixture, this region is a reserve for the heritage ofthe biosphere and of humanity, as well as a stunningexample of diversity, beauty, nature’s richness and culturesthat coexist in a single space.

EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN SANTA MARTA

V I S I T T A Y R O N A N A T I O N A L PA R KTayrona National Park is an easy day trip from the colonial cityof Santa Marta. A favorite destination for nature lovers andthose in search of warm Caribbean waters, Tayrona is one ofthe most beautiful corners of Colombia, where cold mountainstreams flowing from the summit meet a turquoise sea.

Enjoy snorkeling near the sea-sculptured boulders that formtranquil bays and natural reefs. Horseback tours; raft tripsdown the Don Diego River, with its rapids and falls; and longhikes to places like La Piscina or El Cabo are especiallyworthwhile in this amazing park.

V I S I T T H E H I S T O R I C A L C E N T E RIn a trip through the city’s downtown, with the sea breezeblowing in off the waters, you will also feel the magic of thehistorical center’s colonial and republican heritage with itscolorful gardens of azaleas, bougainvillea, poinsettias,butterflies and hummingbirds. Quinta de San PedroAlejandrino is an 18th-century villa where the LiberatorSimon Bolivar died in 1830. Today, the villa is divided into


three main tourist attractions: the main house, the BolivarianMuseum of Contemporary Arts and the Tayrona Museum.The Cathedral is a historical site not to be missed; built in176, it serves as national monument to this day. Lastly, theCustoms House is the oldest house in America, built in 1530,and now hosts the Tayrona Museum.

T A G A N G AIn a cove just 10 minutes from Santa Marta, visitors willdiscover an authentic Colombian fishing village calledTaganga. This village is popular for scuba diving andsnorkeling because of its clear and calm waters. Tangangawelcomes backpackers because of its diverse eateries andaffordable hostels. Nestled around a half-moon bay,Taganga is an ideal place to watch the sunset and enjoy ameal incorporating the catch of the day in a laidback setting.


SAN ANDRÉS, PROVIDENCIA AND SANTA CATALINADiscover a trio of enchanting islands in the Caribbean; slow, continuous and deep, like the perfect breathing forscuba diving, is the rhythm of this stimulating contemplative and coralline archipelago.

San Andrés, the capital the archipelago and one of the country’s most enticing destinations, lies about 435 milesnorthwest of the continental coast of Colombia. Surrounded by “sea of seven colors,” the island offers white sandbeaches, a natural swimming pool, snorkeling, scuba diving and a plethora of water sports ranging from jet skiingto kite surfing.

Downtown San Andrés offers lively restaurants, bars, nightlife and is a haven for shopping lovers. A free port with novalue-added tax, San Andrés has more than 500 shops offering well-known perfume, liquor, clothing, handicraft, jewelryand accessory brands. Furthermore, sunset outings on the Morgan Galleon accompanied by the beats of reggae andsocca Caribbean music and dining on local seafood bathed in coconut milk are among visitors’ favorite activities.

A close neighbor and sister of San Andrés, Providencia is considered one of the Caribbean’s loveliest islands. Surroundedby a coral reef, it is joined to the island of Santa Catalina by a pedestrian bridge called the Lovers’ Bridge.



EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN SAN ANDRÉS,PROVIDENCIA AND SANTA CATALINA

D I V I N G T H E C A Y SSan Andrés is a diver’s paradise thanks to several smallislands nearby that are surrounded by coral reefs. Diving orsnorkeling from the water near the shore is enough to finduniquely colored fish, an expansive coral platform, exoticflora and fauna and a good number of sunken shipsinhabited by seaweed and coral that turns them intotreasures worth seeing. Johnny Cay, The Aquarium andHaynes Cay are a little more than a mile away from San Andrés, while the Bolívar and Albuquerque Cays lie 16 nautical miles to the southwest. The nearby cays areideal for relaxing, while the distant ones are perfect forsnorkeling and diving due to their extensive coral reefs.

P R A C T I C E W A T E R S P O R T S In San Andrés, the beaches and water epitomize a wateractivities paradise. Ranging for personal preferences, themost daring adventurers may wind surf while others takepart in activities like kite surfing, sailing, water skiing,snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing and deep sea fishing,which all cater to many ages and abilities. Name the watersport, and it can be arranged on San Andrés, Providenciaand Santa Catalina.

V I S I T M O R G A N ’ S C A V ENo one knows exactly when the Dutch settlers arrived to setup their faros, but they were soon followed by the English and the Irish, and then came the fight with theSpaniards to keep possession of the island. But despite thecomings and goings of the pirate Sir Henry Morgan betweenhere and Jamaica, he was a resident in the archipelago, andit was from here that he planned various assaults ongalleons laden with gold destined for Europe. It is said that his treasure was hidden in Morgan’s Cave, a small, deep lake within a cave of coral rock.


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CURAÇAO IS REDEFINING THE LUXURY CARIBBEAN VACATION with its intimate, private beaches, pristine dive sites andeclectic array of restaurants. The capital city of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lures visitors with itsdistinctive candy-colored Dutch Colonial architecture, museums and monuments. Just some 35 miles north of Venezuela,with more than 30 beaches, 129 nationalities, 60 dive sites and an increasing number of hot new hotels and restaurants,Curaçao’s time has come.

S H O R T H I S T O R YThe inhabitants are a friendly mix of European, African and Indian bloodlines. Before the Spanish arrived, Curaçao was inhabitedby the Caiquetios, a hunter-gatherer Arawak tribe that probably migrated from Venezuela about 2500 B.C.

The Spanish established a small colony here in the early 1500s, but dubbed the island “useless” because it had no gold orsilver. Local Indians were put to work panning salt, felling timber and tanning hides for shipment back to Spain.

In 1634, the Spanish were routed by the Dutch, who realized that the goldmine in this “useless” island was really its large,deep harbor. For 400 years, it has been one of the Caribbean’s most important ports.

The Curaçao Experience


Despite English and French attempts at conquest, Curaçao has been Dutch for almost 400 years. Today, the chief Spanishlegacies are Catholicism, which is embraced by more than 80 percent of the population, and the many Spanish words woveninto Papiamentu, the local Creole language.

Almost from the beginning, Curaçao has been a major trade center. Its climate and poor soil could not support large plantations,so slaves were sent to Curaçao only to be processed for shipment to South America and other islands. After slavery was abolished in 1863, Curaçao slumbered as a quiet crossroads of trade until the discovery of oil in Venezuela launchedanother boom.

During the 1960s and 70s, Curaçao developed into a popular destination for cruise ships. However, the steep rise in fuel pricesmade sailing from the United States to the south of the Caribbean expensive, and tourism on Curaçao became increasinglydependent on air traffic. In 1986, the first cruise terminal opened for cruise ships; while in 1999, a pier was constructed outsidethe harbor to suitably accommodate large vessels.

Today, Curaçao is an autonomous country within the Dutch Kingdom.


P I C T U R E S Q U E W I L L E M S T A DThe capital Willemstad was built around the main harbor. The St. Annabaai Canal connects the Caribbean Sea with theSchottegat Bay, but separates the city into two areas:Otrabanda and Punda. A simple motorized ride can take youbetween the two areas via the high-rise Queen Juliana Bridgethat exposes you to a superb view. For quick and free access,however, it’s best simply to walk across the Queen EmmaFloating Bridge. When the pontoon bridge opens to let the seatraffic pass, free ferries immediately take over and continueshuttling the harbor until the bridge is closed again.

Punda’s trademark view is the Handelskade, the “littleAmsterdam” of tall buildings facing the bay. Its counterparton the Otrobanda side is De Rouvilleweg. Both sides are a favorite with strollers and shoppers. The best touristshopping is in the narrow streets and alleys of Punda, in anarea bounded by the Floating Market, Plaza, Columbusstraatand Breedestraat. As it goes east, Breedestraat becomesPietermaaiweg, where the Tourist Information Bureau is found at number 19.

By the early 1700s, the walled city of Willemstad was filledwith more than 200 houses, so the town began spreadingbeyond the walls to Pietermaai, Otrobanda (literally, “otherside”) and Scharloo, which was filled with Italianatemansions built by the city’s large community of SephardicJews. Having been abandoned for many years, this area isnow being restored to its former grandeur.

Take a walking tour of old neighborhoods filled with theliving museum of Dutch Colonial architecture. Start yourwalk at the foot of the pontoon bridge, a.k.a. Queen EmmaBridge at the Otrabanda-side. You’ll notice the Riffort thatguards the harbor entrance, the Otrobanda Hotel, and thelanding areas for cruise passengers, which are busy withshops and restaurants. Cross the bridge and stroll thefamous Handelskade with its shops and cafes. Note the tallyellow Penha Building with its curlicues and wrap-aroundgalleries. To seaward is the Fort Amsterdam, which datesto the early 1600s.

R U R A L L A N D S C A P EThe waist of the island, from the airport to Willemstad, is covered with neat suburbs and modern shoppingcenters. A good divided highway called the Ring Roadsurrounds the city. The eastern end of the island isprivately owned, and visitors can stray only so far. The bestsightseeing is in a loop to Westpunt (West Point) and backto the city. On the southwest side, you can find the mostbeautiful secluded beaches.


T R O P I C A L C L I M A T ETemperatures rise into the 90s by day and are in the 70s atnight. Winds are brisk and dry, providing a greater comfortfactor at high temperatures than is found in the more humidislands. Hurricanes rarely affect this part of the Caribbean,as the island lies below the hurricane belt.

S I G H T S A N D S O U N D SThe Kurá Hulanda Museum is one of the largest museumsin the Caribbean. Once a yard where slaves were auctioned, it holds a full-size reconstruction of the hold of aslave ship, artifacts depicting the history of the slave tradedating as far back as 500 years ago and through the Atlanticslave trading years that began in 1441, and hundreds of prints from France and Germany that tell the story ofprejudice against Africans.

The Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue chronicles the historyof a congregation that goes back to 1651. Although thecommunity has reduced in size over the years, the Jewishinfluenced the island in many ways. There was even a timewhere the Jewry of Curaçao could collect money for theconstruction of the first synagogue in New Amsterdam.

The Maritime Museum occupies one of the oldest housesin Scharloo. Its exterior has been artfully restored, while theinterior has been completely redesigned in a maritime styleto bring Curaçao’s rich seafaring history to life.

Curaçao Sea Aquarium is a sophisticated nature show in acontrolled environment lagoon where visitors can get closeto sea lions, sharks, turtles, stingrays and toothy moray eels.A stationary semi-submarine provides an underwater platformfor photographers. Plan to spend all day here. It’s hard to tearyourself away from the nonstop nature show of sea creaturesswimming in 46 tanks and in outdoor enclosures.

Curaçao has no shortage of activities for the sophisticatedtraveler. For a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, Substation Curaçaooffers the Curasub, a mini-submarine that takes guestsbeneath the sea, down to 1,000 feet. All of the activity is sure to work up an appetite.

The Hato Caves are gaping caverns, cool and mysterious withtheir natural formations of stalactites and stalagmites. They’rethe only caves in the region with petroglyphs dating back atleast 1,500 years; the caverns themselves were formedmillions of years ago below sea level. As Curaçao rose fromthe sea millennia ago, the caves emerged. Along the way you’llsee the “little dinosaur” lizards living in the rocks and treesand, inside the caves, a colony of rare long-nose bats.




Christoffel National Park covers much of the area between Westpunt and Barber, a 4,500-acre reserve topped by MountChristoffel. Compared to the lush drama of other islands’ rainforests and soaring mountains, this one seems dry andcolorless until you take a closer look at its skittering wildlife, sculpted divi-divi trees, a rare sabal palm and two speciesof wild orchids. With luck, you may see a Curaçao deer.

Allow a day for a driving tour around the north end of the island, stopping at Shete Boka, where the Boka Tabla cave is a spectacular explosion of ocean against eroding rock. A path takes you deep into a tumbled scattering of enormousboulders, where you can see the wide mouth of the cave entrance at the end of a long, black tunnel.

T H E P L A N T A T I O N H O U S E S O F C U R A Ç A OKnown as Landhuizen, the plantation houses of Curaçao are an architectural scrapbook of the 18th and 19th centuries.Many are open to the public as restaurants or inns; others are shown by appointment; some are privately owned andcan be seen only from the road. This is just a partial listing; others are shown on maps, but may not be open to thepublic. Landhuis Chobolobo is the site of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, and it is open for tasting and tours.

S E C L U D E D B E A C H E SCuraçao’s beaches range from cozy coves to long strands of whitesand, all of them washed by waves of clear, turquoise water.Topless bathing is officially illegal, so be discreet. Actually, you’llsee it almost everywhere. Stay away from the north coast, whereundertows and surges are powerful, in favor of the more placid,sheltered southwest coast.

U L T I M A T E D I V I N GCuraçao lists almost 70 dive sites from walls to wrecks, reefs to rocks.Among the unique dives are The Valley, Lost Anchor, one called Alicein Wonderland and the depths surrounding an offshore desert island,Klein Curaçao, with its pristine reefs and coral Mushroom Forest. All dives are in protected parks, where anchoring is not allowed.Waters are usually calm and always warmly pleasant.

S H O P P I N GWhen cruise ships are in, the streets of Punda and Otrobanda comealive with colorful vendors and festive flea markets. However, any day is a good day for snapping up some of the Caribbean’smost meaningful finds: local art work, pottery, Dutch Delftware,wooden shoes, Curaçao liqueur, brilliantly painted hanging plantersmade from old tires and worlds of trade goods from South America,which lies only 44 miles to the south.

The famous Floating Market sells mostly produce and fish for localconsumption, but for tourists, it’s a good place to find spices andinexpensive terracotta planters.

C U R A Ç A O C U I S I N ELocal food is called Kriyoyo and boasts a blend of flavors andtechniques best compared to Caribbean and Latin American cuisine.Popular dishes include: Stobá, a stew made with various ingredientssuch as papaya, beef or goat; Guiambo, soup made from okra andseafood; Kadushi, cactus soup; Sopi Mondongo, intestine soup;Funchi, cornmeal paste; and a lot of fish and other seafood.

The ubiquitous breakfast dish is pastechi: fried pastry with fillingsof cheese, tuna, ham or ground meat. Around the holiday season,special dishes are consumed, such as the hallaca and pekelé, madeout of salt cod.

At weddings and other special occasions, a variety of kos dushi areserved: kokada (coconut sweets), ko’i lechi (condensed milk and sugarsweet) and tentalaria (peanut sweets).

The Curaçao liqueur was developed here when a local experimentedwith the rinds of the local citrus fruit known as laraha.

Fact is that you can read all you want about Curaçao, but you haveto experience Curaçao to talk about Curaçao!


Stress? There’s a cruise for that.Call in at Santo Domingo, Samaná or La Romana.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC. CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. GoDominicanRepublic.com

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CALL IN SANTO DOMINGO, LA ROMANA AND SAMANÁ

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC IS A LAND OF BRILLIANT CONTRASTS, modern cities, rich history and intriguing culture — a placewhere travelers by sea can experience authentic Dominican culture, visit the ancient Colonial City and dance to the pulse-pounding beats of merengue, the country’s national music and dance, while mingling with friendly Dominican locals in shops,restaurants and plazas. Dominican Republic is where you can be a traveler, not just a cruise tourist.

Ideally situated in the heart of the Caribbean, Dominican Republic is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the north coast andthe azure Caribbean Sea to the south. Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1492 during his first voyage to the NewWorld, and its natural beauty and rich history continue to amaze all who visit today.

Travelers arriving on cruise ships have countless opportunities to explore Dominican culture throughout its many port citiesand towns overflowing with arts, museums, shopping, theatre, delicious gastronomy and Dominican products like rum,chocolate, cigars, fresh fruits, coconut and seafood.

Two major ports on the country’s southeast coast in Santo Domingo and La Romana welcome cruise ship passengers year-round at modern, state-of-the-art terminals like Sans Souci and Don Diego in the capital city and La Romana International Pierin La Romana. Adding to the rich offerings, a new cruise terminal was just announced on the north coast in in DominicanRepublic’s Puerto Plata region. Additionally, a popular docking facility in Samaná Bay located along the romantic SamanáPeninsula on the northeast coast makes Dominican Republic a flexible cruise destination with fascinating excursions andmodern road and airport infrastructure.

Experience Dominican Republic By Sea

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S A N T O D O M I N G O ( S A N S S O U C I A N D D O N D I E G O C R U I S E T E R M I N A L S )Modern and cosmopolitan Santo Domingo is the country’s capital city and one of the most significant destinations in theAmericas. The sophisticated city is located on the Caribbean Sea at the mouth of the Ozama River and features the ColonialCity, the oldest inhabited European settlement in the Americas.

World-class arts, museums, parks, restaurants and shopping are found near the Don Diego and Sans Souci cruise terminalsand provide educational excursions to discover the true Dominican lifestyle, history and cultural traditions.

S A N T O D O M I N G O A T T R A C T I O N SHorse-Drawn Carriages – Locally designed and decorated horse-drawn carts ride along Santo Domingo’s maritime boulevardand the Colonial Zone. The carriages contain artwork of well-renowned names in the Dominican visual arts, including ElsaNunez, Jose Cestero, Candido Bido, Mirna Guerrero and more.

Colonial City – The Colonial City was the first city established in the New World, erected by Columbus’ brother, Bartholomew,and Bartholomew’s son, Diego. The Colonial City was recognized by UNESCO and declared a World Heritage site in 1990.Visitors will find hundreds of preserved buildings dating back to the early 1500s, many of which are now museums. Amongthem are Alcazar de Colon, Ozama fortress and the palace of the Spanish court.

Chu Chu Colonial – The Chu Chu Colonial train offers enriching educational and cultural panoramic views of Santo Domingoand the Colonial City’s breathtaking architecture and rich history. The tour guides provide expert narrative on the mostoutstanding monuments of the historic city, some dating back more than 500 years.

Santo Domingo Botanical Gardens – The Santo Domingo Botanical Gardens, the largest in the Caribbean, are commonlyexperienced while riding a small train. The park is a haven for the island’s natural flora and is decorated with areas of palmtrees, orchids and exotic plants, as well as what was once the largest floral clock in the world.

Shopping – Santo Domingo will charm even the most discriminating shoppers with a variety of shopping experiences. TheBlue Mall offers upscale stores, like Louis Vuitton, Armani and Cartier, drawing many new shoppers. The Acropolis Mall withits many European stores and a variety of restaurants is also a favorite. The ultra-modern Novo-Centro is transforming thecapital city’s skyline and features beautiful modern architecture with many popular shops and small movie theaters. Othershopping venues include Plaza Central, Bella Vista Mall, Americana Departamentos, Ikea and Cuesta. In addition, there aremany gifts shops located in the Colonial City, including the famous El Conde Street pedestrian mall.

L A R O M A N A ( L A R O M A N A I N T E R N A T I O N A L P I E R )La Romana International Pier is another favorite stop for cruise ships. The brilliant waters, white sand beaches and activitiesattract visitors to the lush La Romana, located two hours east of Santo Domingo. The southeastern coast is decorated withvast sugarcane fields that surround some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful resorts and beaches of La Romana and Bayahibe.This natural scenery provides an experience like no other in the country.

La Romana is also home to a leading hotel of the world and one of the most complete resorts in the Caribbean, Casa deCampo. Here, golf enthusiasts at any skill level can play golf on three magnificent courses: Teeth of the Dog, Dye Fore and theLinks. Additionally, the resort boasts a marina with internationally renowned boutiques and restaurants, as well as Altos deChavón, a replica of a 16th century artists’ village overlooking the Chavón River.

Cruise ships also delight passengers at Catalina Island with facilities that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests. The smallisland is surrounded by a marine coral reef nature preserve attractive to diving and snorkeling enthusiasts and is the perfectday excursion to explore the underwater world of Dominican Republic.

L A R O M A N A A T T R A C T I O N SCueva de las Maravillas – Nestled between San Pedro de Macoris and La Romana is the fascinating cave system, “Cave ofWonders.” The caves showcase hundreds of well-preserved pictographs, petroglyphs and engravings from the Taino Indians



who once inhabited it thousands of years before. It is hometo the most important sample of rock art and featuresamazing rock formations, such as stalactites, stalagmitesand columns.

Golf — La Romana lays claim to some of the world’s bestgolf courses. Four courses are located at Casa de CampoResort, while the newest course in the area, La Estancia,includes gorgeous fairways and surprising challenges. Theazure Caribbean Sea, the Chavón River Valley and palm-treecovered national parks provide scenic backgrounds for thearea’s four courses.

Living Underwater Museum — Lining the coast of theBayahibe hotel zone are the Underwater Archeological Reserves. Shipwrecked galleons dating back to the early18th century have been recreated here to portray how theylooked when originally discovered by marine biologists.Snorkelers and scuba divers frequent the museums.

Parque Nacional del Este — Home to more than 500 floraspecies, 300 types of birds and long stretches of beachesand underwater wonders, the National Park of the East isone of the most visited and protected areas in the country.While here, visitors can hike, discover ancient Taino ruins,take part in bird watching excursions, and dive coral reefspopulated with manatees, bottle-nose dolphins and othersea creatures.

Altos de Chavón — La Romana’s hidden gem is Altos deChavón, a 16th century European artists’ village thatfeatures cobblestone streets and coral block and terra cottabuildings. Offering magnificent scenic views of the ChavónRiver, Altos de Chavón was constructed by the imaginationof Roberto Copa, a former Paramount Studios set designer,and Charles Bluhdorn, an American industrialist.

P U E R T O P L A T A ( P O R T O F M A I M Ó N )Puerto Plata’s magical ecotourism and sizzling beach townsare ready to greet cruise passengers when CarnivalCorporation’s new cruise terminal in the Port of Maimón iscompleted. The new cruise port is expected to be the mostmodern in the Caribbean and will be located just north ofPuerto Plata.

Puerto Plata was the first city in Dominican Republic to havecruise calls and is a great geographical location for cruises.The construction, expected to be completed in 2014, will open up the north coast’s delightful beaches, unspoiledeco-tourism adventures and authentic, bustling towns tomany new cruise travelers.


T H E S A M A N Á P E N I N S U L A ( C A Y O L E V A N T A D O A N D S A M A N Á P I E R )Famous for its pristine, secluded beaches, radiant turquoise ocean waters and lush green mountains covered in coconut palmtrees, the Samaná Peninsula is a favorite and less-traveled getaway. Cruise ships dock in the bay, and passengers can spendthe day at Cayo Levantado and its white sand beaches; disembark at the Samaná Pier to shop the stores along the Bay; or joinday tours to visit the nearby national park, waterfalls and unique restaurants and towns.

This off-the-beaten-path destination beckons adventure, nature and romance seekers alike. Travelers visiting between Januaryand March can enjoy the thousands of humpback whales that return to the protected waters around the Samaná Peninsula,where they frolic, mate and give birth in the safety of the Marine Mammal Sanctuary of the Dominican Republic.

Excursions around this ecological corridor are easily accessible and allow for a spiritual journey through some of the Peninsula’sserene waterfalls and seascapes – an experience not to be forgotten.

S A M A N Á P E N I N S U L A A T T R A C T I O N S Los Haitises National Park – Travelers can explore ancient history in mangroves, estuaries, caves and bays at Los Haitises National Park.Easily reached by a short boat ride across Samana Bay, the park’s guests will find themselves surrounded by more than 100 species ofbirds, 90 plus plant species, a wide variety of mammals and a magnificent series of limestone caves bearing pre-Columbian Taino art.

Cayo Levantado – Cruise passengers flock to this palm-lined island to walk along the pristine beach and tan or venture out to thethriving reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving. Restaurants surround the beach and serve local Dominican food, as well as freshcoconut and pineapple drinks. Vendors line the sidewalk with locally made crafts and artwork for passengers to buy as keepsakes.

Land Whale Observatory – Dominican Republic’s first land whale observation point celebrates the annual whale-watchingseason at Punta Balandra on the southeast coast. Visitors can view the thousands of humpback whales that migrate to theprotected area of the Marine Mammal Sanctuary in Samaná Bay by land rather than by boat.

El Limón – Considered the most spectacular of Dominican Republic’s many waterfalls, El Limón captivates as it cascades 170 feet into a pool where visitors may take a dip. To reach the top of the falls, horseback riding is a popular option amongadventure tourists and also provides a beautiful view of the surrounding jungle and natural pool below.

Zipline Canopy Tours – Visitors can experience a new dimension of entertainment with Canopy Tours Samana. Adventureseekers begin the tour walking through floral paths to the first of 14 platforms and nine lines between 85 and 300 meters.long. The zipline adventure begins at Juana Vincente, located just a few minutes from the Samaná Pier, and takes guestsflying safely over coconut palms and lush green valleys with spectacular views of mountains, Samana Bay and Cayo Levantado.



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Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, La Désirade, Les Saintes, Marie-Galante

the 5 sides of paradise

www.lesilesdeguadeloupe.com

Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board

5, square de la Banque - BP 555 - 97166 Pointe-à-Pitre cedexTé l. : +590 (0)5 90 82 09 30 - Fax : +590 (0)5 90 83 89 22

E-mail : [email protected]

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THE ISLANDS OF GUADELOUPE — Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, La Desirade, Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas) andMarie-Galante — welcome you to the Caribbean!

You’ll have an unforgettable stay, enjoying the wide range of activities offered on the two large islands forming the “butterfly”and on the smaller dependencies. The four main themes of our Activities Program — blue, green, cultural and flavors — willtempt you to try our water sports.

The Guadeloupe islands are certainly some of the most beautiful places for water sports.

Caressed by the trade winds, tempered by the ever-present sun all year round, lashed by the Atlantic Ocean and lapped by the Caribbean Sea, the Guadeloupian archipelago is definitely blessed by the gods. A treat for the eyes as they encounter theincredible shades of blue of the Caribbean Sea. Then a treat for the senses with a range of water sports so expansive that youwon’t even be able to get through them all during your vacation. Stretching out on the sand with your toes dipped in the water;riding the sea on a jet ski; diving in search of coral and sponges; seeing the wind swell your sails under an unblemished sky;finding out all about the nature reserve of Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin; taking a catamaran trip in search of white sand bank. You can do anything in the water, and it feels so good! Relaxation, stimulation, freedom, feeling good…

Everyone will think your photos have been touched up and that your vacation stories are a bit exaggerated.

The wonders of nature — to be consumed without moderation!!!

Getting away from it all to the “land of verdant hills.” Funny how this expression seems perfect for Guadeloupe. For on Basse-Terre, if there is one color that stands out, it’s certainly green! Or, rather, greens, for the ever-changing light seems caught upin a play of colors with thousands of plant species. Trees, ferns, epiphytic leaves, cannas and wild orchid do their utmost tosurprise the freshly landed visitors! Learning to paint on Guadeloupe certainly changes your appreciation of color, as the desire

The Five Sides of Paradiseto represent nature leads straight to the purest shades. The bitter, fresh smell of volcanic earth is just as compulsive as thebright splashes of color. This exotic picture is completed majestically by the roar of waterfalls in the forest and the crystal-clear lapping of a gently cascading river; it all seems more dreamlike than real. As Guadeloupe is the favorite land forsports and nature-based leisure activities, walks, exploring canyons, mountain biking, hikes and treks all give you theopportunity to soak in this rejuvenating bath of greenery.

Guadeloupian culture, shaped by its turbulent history and diverse ethnic mix, cannot be reduced merely to the term “Creolified.”

A land of different influences — African, European, Indian and American — Guadeloupe is the guardian of a multiple identity,the bearer of a society that is constantly being transformed by new influences. So there are several Guadeloupes to discover,depending on which little window you peek through. Back in vogue are Indian rites, the African memory or even the quadrilleof the 17th-century colonists. Of course, that’s what entices lovers of the archipelago to come back again and again, and oftenstay for good. For that unique soul — warm, sophisticated and proud — is the “cargo of humanity” evoked by Guy Tyrolien inIles (“Bales d’Or”). Yet it’s in the streets that you find real Guadeloupian culture, rather than the museums. Its literature, music,painting and crafts open your eyes wide to a whole complex and passionate reality. So listen carefully, sharpen your senses,open your heart and you will grasp just some of the essence of this enchanting world.

A L A N D O F F L A V O R SOn the Guadeloupe islands, the magic of the cultural melting pot and huge variety of spices has let a culinary genie out of thelamp, casting spells over the great Creole restaurants, like the “roulottes de bokits.” Being island-based brings a natural


affinity with fish products, and Guadeloupe is indeed thesecond biggest consumer of fish in the world (per head ofpopulation). Fish bouillon, clam chowder, grilled lobster andqueen conch fricassee are some of the succulent dishesyou’ll love tasting.

With more than a third of the land dedicated to farming, thisagricultural and rural economy means there is a wide rangeof young vegetables. Guadeloupians were “green” beforetheir time with their Creole gardens of fruit orchards andvegetable patches. The culinary classics are still heartydishes, eaten by all the family or at great festive meals.

Proof, if it’s needed, of the incredible fusion of cultures —Caribbean, European, Indian and African, enriched by theinfluences of the Middle East — is found in this gastronomy.Gourmets and gourmands alike will be overwhelmed by thefertile land of the Guadeloupe islands and its gastronomicexpertise, relishing the delicious smell of a curry, tasting thesweet flesh of Julie mangoes, drinking a freshly squeezedjuice made from péyi cherries, or savoring the aromas of a vintage rum.

B A S S E - T E R R E Dominated by the imposing silhouette of its old Lady (La Soufrière volcano), Basse-Terre is one of the wingsforming the “butterfly” of Guadeloupe.

Basse-Terre is a mountainous massif, covered by amagnificent tropical forest of almost 66 square miles whichhas been a designated national park since 1989. It has lotsof well-marked hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty.Its lush vegetation (more than 3,000 species of trees)provides shelter for an exotic wildlife, free from poisonousanimals. With its waterfalls, cascades, basins, parks anddifferent plantation, it reveals all of its natural charm!Beaches of pebble and sand in shades of ochre, brown, blackand pink line its coast, and it has a fantastic underwaterreserve of world-renowned Jacques Cousteau Reserve (with a submerged bust of him). Basse-Terreprovides ample evidence of the cultural diversity of theisland: Catholic church and Hindu temple, archaeologicalremains of the first inhabitants and the 17th-century militaryfort. The town of the same name, the administrative centerof the department is a real history book.

G R A N D E - T E R R EGrande-Terre, also known as the Little Brittany of theAntilles, forms one wing of the butterfly of the Guadeloupianarchipelago. Unlike its twin, Basse-Terre, it is flat andformed from limestone.



Grande-Terre is a limestone plateau perfectly suited togrowing sugar cane, which covers most of the island. You will realize the importance of this agricultural activity ifyou visit the Gardel sugar factory or the Bellevue distillery, located in the town of Le Moule, the former colonial capital.The magnificent shaded beaches of white sand along itscoastline provide brilliant sunbathing places if you want tolaze about. Calm lagoons of turquoise sea, as well as wavesports, are a joy for surfers and windsurfers. Lots ofrestaurants and hotels will guarantee you a taste of the bestCreole cuisine, balmy Guadeloupian nights and the range ofnighttime activities (casinos, discos, revues, etc.). With itsnatural beauty spots (Pointe des Châteaux, the cliffs of laGrande Vigie, the Grands Fonds, etc.), Pointe-à-Pitre — theeconomic capital with its historical monuments, museumsand spice and flower markets with intoxicating smells —and the sugar cane landscapes of Port-Louis, Grande-Terreoffer a wide range of choices to suit every visitor.

L A D E S I R A D E “ I N F I N I T E N A T U R E ”The island of La Désirade has been desired by so many inits history! From a distance, its shape looks like the keel ofan upturned boat. Life on La Désirade is timeless. Peace andsimplicity characterize this tabular rock that is quite differentfrom all of the others in the archipelago. In fact, nothing candisturb the tranquil atmosphere that reigns on the island,nor affect the authentic character and kind welcome of itsinhabitants, mainly descendants of people from Brittany,Normandy and Poitou. Seven miles long and just over a mile


wide, it has magnificent beaches of white sand and is sheltered by long coral reefs, a delight for swimmers anddivers. Only the south coast is inhabited. There is one single, straight road linking Grande-Anse, the main markettown, to the different communities, Les Galets, Le Souffleur and Baie-Mahault. La Désirade, just like the wild islandsthat are linked to Petite-Terre, has an astonishing variety of plant life. You will also find some beautiful and fascinatingcolonies of animals on the verge of extinction: iguanas, agoutis, tropicbirds, etc. Gradually, the island is beginningto modernize and is gearing up for an appropriate scale of tourist development: beaches and organized hiking trails,gîte accommodations and pleasant restaurants.

L E S S A I N T E S “ T H E PA R A D I S E I S L A N D S ” Life rolls along quietly here. Memories of the turbulent past of the archipelago and the bloody naval battle with theEnglish and French fleets facing each other off the coastline remain consigned to the history books.

Terre-de-Haut is renowned for its gorgeous bay with clear, turquoise waters; its spectacular sugarloaf mountain; its charming village with quiet roads lined with cute cottages. The inhabitants of Breton and Norman descent havea long tradition of fishing, which they do in small, open boats called saintoises. You can visit the Napoleon Fort withits museum and its surprising exotic garden. The island’s restaurants are stocked with fresh produce on a daily basisand offer tasty tropical cuisine. Terre-de-Bas with its beautiful beach at Grande-Anse, the remains of the formerpottery, leisurely strolls or even the tiny village of Petite-Anse is worth getting to know better! Less busy than itssister island, it offers its temporary guests peace and quiet, a relaxed pace of life and the hospitality of its inhabitants.

“ M A R I E - G A L A N T E , S O T R U E ! ”Located 27 miles from Pointe-à-Pitre, Marie-Galante (Aïchi en Caraïbes) covers an area of 61 square miles. Nicknamed “the big pancake,” this round island, with its quiet roads and varied plant life, is the sugar cane islandpar excellence. Known as the island of a hundred mills, it had already gained a reputation for its rum by the 18thcentury. Vast sugar cane fields still cover most of the land today. On the roads, you will meet authentic ox-drawncarts, the means of transport used by farmers. They say it’s home to the best rums in the world, and Marie-Galantejealously guards the secrets of its culinary specialties on the menus of its colorful restaurants. Its beaches of whitesand are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean! With its hospitality and the legendary warmth of itsinhabitants, Marie-Galante is authenticity itself in the Guadeloupean archipelago.




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RICH IN HISTORY AND CULTURE, Guatemala is a gem full of wonders, mystery and diverse tourist destinations, all in a relativelysmall territory. Nature, biodiversity, volcanoes, eco-tourism, fishing, black sand beaches, golf, adventure, colonial and Mayancities, and the warmth of its people are the country’s biggest competitive advantages.

2012 is a year of change. This year, Guatemala started welcoming a new government, as well as new tourism authorities.One of the new government’s top priorities is tourism; as a result, many positive changes and actions are being enforced inorder to achieve greater results and continue positioning Guatemala as a first-class destination.

Thanks to its privileged and strategic geographic location with access to the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, Guatemala hasevolved into a competitive platform for global business, thanks to trade agreements signed with various countries around theglobe and to a favorable macro-economic environment driven through the complementary work performed by the Guatemalangovernment and the private sector.

With access to both oceans, Guatemala’s national port system is integrated by three multi-purpose commercial ports. Two ofthose ports have specialized terminals, facilities, certifications and the necessary services to offer safe and efficient portservices and are prepared for cruise tourist reception. Security coordination and monitoring is provided for tourists at theterminals, tourist destinations and main roads through INGUAT’s security and the tourist assistance program, PROATUR.PROATUR’s office and free direct line -1500- at the main tourist destinations is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide assistance, security and to attend to any emergencies.

2012 IS … GUATEMALA!!Guatemala is located in the heart of Central America, with an area of 108,800 square kilometers divided in 22 departments,and has a population of 13.6 million. The unique culture of its population is a combination of 22 Mayan ethnicities, Ladinos and Garifunas. The official language is Spanish, but there are 23 other languages recognized, including 21 Mayan,one Garifuna and one Xinca.

The year 2012 comprises a range of beliefs according to which transformative events will occur on December 21, 2012. This date marks the end of a 5,125-year-long cycle in the Mayan Long Count Calendar, and its significance is fundamental forthe culture’s vision of the cosmos. The Long Count Calendar has the purpose of measuring the number of days elapsed since the creation of the world, expressed in large cycles called B’aktuns.

Some people suggest that 2012 marks the end of the world or a similar catastrophe. The Maya Guatemalan culture believesthat this date marks a time where Earth and its inhabitants may undergo a positive spiritual or physical transformation, andmore than the celebration of the end of a 13-B’aktun period or cycle, the year 2012 represents the BEGINNING of a new era.From the basics of the Mayan philosophy and their thoughts, cyclic time changes should not be interpreted as final, but instead,as an opportunity for a positive renovation.

The ancient Mayas of Guatemala taught us a lesson that must be shared and transmitted to the rest of the world. We needchanges in human nature and society. Guatemala is the perfect place to understand this time concept, and it allows us to livethe beginning of a new era like nowhere else. Its millenary ceremonial squares, imposing archeological sites and stone-carvedcomplex texts witness the relevance that they represent and their place in history.

However, not everything is in the past. Guatemala’s Mayan population has kept this world vision alive. Proof of that are thediverse ceremonial religious practices that take place daily in several regions and areas within the country. Guatemala hasbeen recognized as one of the main cultural destinations in the world. Experience our mixture of pre-Hispanic, colonial andmodern cultural expressions.


COME VISIT GUATEMALA IN 2012! A MYSTICAL EXPERIENCE AWAITS YOU!

AMAZING DESTINATIONS:

A D V E N T U R E I N T H E M A Y A W O R L DPetén, one of Guatemala’s 22 departments, holds a unique historicvalue for its archeological richness, its fauna and its biospherereserve. Its numerous archeological sites make this region one ofthe most important of the Maya world.Besides Tikal and El Mirador, there are many other amazing archaeological sites toexplore, like Yaxhá, Ceibal, Aguacateca and Uaxactún.

T I K A LRight in the heart of the Mayan world is one of the largestarchaeological urban centers of the pre-Columbian Mayancivilization, Tikal, standing out with magnificent temples thathold the secrets of a mystic culture that flourished in thearea. In 1979, Tikal National Park was declared a WorldHeritage Site by UNESCO.

Tikal covers 222 square miles in the midst of the tropicaljungle of Petén, and more than 4,000 structures can be foundat the site, even though it’s believed that most of it is stillleft to be unearthed. Tikal is also refuge for thousands ofexotic wildlife. Once you’re there, the more you see andlearn about this outstanding place and the mysteriousancient Mayan civilization, the more incredible it becomes,and the longer you wish you could stay.

For cruise tourism, transportation to attractions in Petén is by air,and depending on the port where you are departing from, theflight takes between 25 to 40 minutes, and it’s a full-day tour.

E L M I R A D O RIn 2003, Dr. Richard D. Hansen, a senior scientist from IdahoState University, initiated major investigation, stabilization and conservation programs at El Mirador, including staff andtechnical personnel from 52 universities and researchinstitutions from all over the world. By August 2008, the teamhad published 168 scientific papers and produced 474 technicalreports and scientific presentations, as well as documentaryfilms aired on the History Channel, National Geographic, theLearning Channel, BBC, ABC’s 20/20, Good Morning America,60 Minutes (Australia) and the Discovery Channel.

There are around 35 triadic structures, and some of the mostnotable are: “El Tigre,” with a height of 55 meters (180 feet)and "La Danta" temple, which measures approximately 70 meters (230 feet); considering its total volume (2,800,000cubic meters), it’s one of the largest pyramids in the world.



Q U I R I G U ATake a full-day tour or a half-day tour to the archaeologicalsite Quiriguá, which was declared a World Heritage Site byUNESCO in 1981, located a short distance from the SantoThomas de Castilla port in Izabal. This Mayan site is arelatively small one, though one of the most importantbecause of the artistry in its 22 stelae and zoomorphs, or glyphs, which are among the finest examples of ClassicMayan stone carvings. In Quiriguá you can find “Stela E” —weighing an astonishing 65 tons and stretching 10.67 meters, the largest quarried stone found so far in theMayan World — depicting the Lightning Warrior K’AK’ Tiliw.

A N T I G U A G U A T E M A L A , C O L O N I A LPA R A D I S EAntigua Guatemala, in the department of Sacatepéquez, is one of Guatemala’s most popular destinations. Built in1543 during a time of extraordinary colonial wealth, Antiguasits quietly on a highland valley, surrounded by threeoutstanding volcanoes: the magnificent Agua Volcano, thesmoking Fuego Volcano and Acatenango. Antigua wasdeclared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO and itis considered the most outstanding and well-preservedcolonial city in all Spanish America.

Antigua is known for its natural beauty and historicalmonuments, making it a city of charm visited year-round bythousands of tourists from all over the world. You can findfirst-class hotels, art galleries, markets, handmade crafts,amazing gastronomy and internet cafes, some of the world’sbest Spanish schools, as well as travel agencies, tours,banks, stores, a fun nightlife and friendly inhabitants.




L A K E A T I T L A N , M Y S T I C A L A N D N A T U R A LMany have called it “the most beautiful lake in the world.” Atitlan is a Mayan word that translates to “the place where therainbow gets its colors.”

The lake is surrounded by three magnificent volcanoes, as well as many Mayan villages, where the culture and its traditionalcharacteristics still prevail.

Panajachel is the biggest tourist spot on the shore of the lake, where you can find a large variety of shops, bars, restaurantsand hotels.

R I O D U L C E & L I V I N G S T O N , A G R E E N C A R I B B E A NDelight yourself with a combined tour where you’ll enjoy the tropical green flora and beautiful fauna of the river’s canyon,which connects the Caribbean Sea with Lake Izabal, Guatemala’s largest lake. Then make ways to the colorful town ofLivingston, where you can enjoy architecture, handicrafts, dances, culinary and cultural traditions where the Garifuna, Q’eqchiand Ladina cultures merge.

EXOTIC AND DIVERSE

B I R D W A T C H I N GBirdwatching has increased, just like the preoccupation and awareness about the conservation of natural resources andbiodiversity. In Guatemala, there are 83 bird families, integrated by more than 700 species, of which 150 are endemic tothe region.

Birdwatching takes the visitor from their place of origin to a specific destination where you will find specialized services andknowledgeable guides in a unique natural environment, for an experience sure to enthrall.

G O L F & F I S H I N GAmongst diverse outdoor activities, golf and deep-sea fishing have become major tourism activities in Guatemala. Guatemala’sPacific coast has been noted for several years now as the best spot in the world for the catch and release of marlin and sailfish.Guatemala holds the world record of most sailfish caught and released.

A short distance away from Puerto Quetzal, cruise tourists are now able to enjoy a day of golf at La Reunion Antigua GolfResort, awarded Best Resort of Mexico and Central America by Conde Nast Johansen. Located in a remarkable coffee plantationwith 360-degree views that allow you to enjoy the wonders of Guatemala, the dazzling view of the Pacific coastline and thewonders of four outstanding volcanoes, this unique resort boasts an 18-hole world-class golf course, built by master designersPete and Perry Dye.

C O F F E E P L A N T A T I O N SGuatemala’s coffee has been revered as one of the most flavorful and nuanced cups in the world. In 2008, Guatemala’s coffeeearned the highest price in history at international auction. Since the early 1990s, Guatemala has led a pioneering effort todefine the country’s coffee-producing regions based on soil, rainfall, humidity, altitude, temperature, coffee characteristicsand even cup profiles.

D U C H E Z S T A N D S U P T O T O U R I S M C H A L L E N G E SPedro Pablo Duchez, the new Director of the Guatemala Tourism Board – INGUAT – and recently appointed Secretary ofTourism, understands the importance of the growing development of the Cruise Industry in Guatemala. “I am very confidentthat Guatemala is a first-class destination with amazing amenities to offer,” he says, “and we will continue to work hard inorder to serve the cruise industry by providing excellent services and competitive products.”

REMEMBER DECEMBER 21ST, 2012. IT’S NOT ONLY A DATE; IT’S A PLACE … IT’S GUATEMALA!


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V I V E L A R E N A I S S A N C E O F F O R T - D E - F R A N C ELong noted as one of the crown jewels of the Caribbean cities, Fort-de-France, Martinique is now better than ever thanks to arecently completed capital improvement program encompassing two of the city’s prime attractions: La Savane Park and Le Malecon.

Fort-de-France’s waterfront promenade, Le Malecon, has been enhanced to better appeal to leisure and active travelers. Newbasketball, volleyball and pétanque courts provide tourists and locals alike the opportunity to mix and mingle over healthycompetition. For the kids, Le Malecon offers new swings, trampolines and other playground equipment. There’s even a pristinewhite sand beach in the Malecon, as well as a wide half-mile boardwalk, ideal for an afternoon stroll.

Adjacent to Le Malecon lies the famed 12-acre La Savane Park. The veritable heart of downtown Fort-de-France, La Savane wasoriginally known as Le Jardin du Roi (garden of the king). Its initial purpose was to harbor scientific experiments on plant speciesthat were new to the island, many of which are still present in the park today. An inviting oasis of nature and serenity amidst thehustle and bustle of Fort-de-France, the newly redeveloped La Savane is a prime spot for walks, picnics and meeting with friends.Wooden stands located throughout the park provide various tourist information services, shopping, food and refreshments. Freshlysqueezed icy juices, cocktails, sandwiches, pizzas, Panini, pasta, cassavas cakes, deliciously flavored homemade ice-creams,Creole, Indonesian, sushi and vegetarian food, Creole soup, crepes and local candies are all available here.

Martinique, C’est Magnifique!




Recent enhancements throughout Fort-de-France alsoextend to Hotel L’Impératrice, one of the city’s legendaryproperties. Named in honor of Martinique native EmpressJosephine, Napoleon’s wife, Hotel L’Impératrice originallyopened in the 1950s, quickly becoming the place to be seenfor jet setting travelers visiting Martinique. Now, thanks toa modern-day revival that blends authentic old world charmand contemporary flair, the hotel is making a new name foritself among a burgeoning generation of culture- and style-seeking travelers.

M A R T I N I Q U E P R O M OT I O NB U R E A U / C M T U S A W I N S S I LV E R M A G E L L A N A W A R D L A R O U T E D E S R H U M S E A R N S A C C O L A D E S F O R T I E S TO LO C A L C U LT U R E

The Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA was recentlynamed among the winners of Travel Weekly’s MagellanAwards. Among the travel industry’s top honors, MagellanAwards recognizes the very best in marketing and designservices. Martinique received a Silver Magellan Award forits communications campaign in support of La Route desRhums, a self-guided, rum-themed tour of the islandmodeled after France’s famed Route des Vins.

La Route des Rhums features 11 distilleries locatedthroughout Martinique, each welcoming travelers withinsightful tours and free tastings. Visitors are treated to anin-depth introduction to the island’s proud and celebrateddistilling tradition at the sources where each legendaryblend was born, while also experiencing the full range of Martinique’s charms, from the natural wonder of themountainous northern region to the metropolitan mid-section of the island and the flatter, arid southern shores.

Martinique rums are distinguished by a unique rhum agricole production technique employed by the island’sdistillers for centuries to yield a collection of trulyincomparable blends. Whereas rums produced elsewhereare primarily made from the molasses byproduct of sugarproduction, the rhum agricole method used in Martiniquebegins with freshly squeezed sugar cane juice taken directlyfrom cane stalks. This unique process yields rums that aremore comparable with fine cognacs, offering greatercomplexity and a more varied array of natural flavors.

Owing in large part to the rhum agricole production technique, Martinique rums are the only rums in the worldthat have been granted the prestigious Appellation d’OrigineContrôlée (AOC) designation. Awarded by the French


government agency Institut National des Appellationsd’Origine (INAO) in recognition of the finest agriculturalproducts (wines, cheeses, butters, etc.), the AOC designationis an incomparable stamp of excellence in the culinary andspirits world. All rums produced in Martinique bear the AOCmarker, making them a favorite of the world’s mostdiscerning rum connoisseurs.

MART IN IQUE ’S ICONIC FORT-DE-FRANCEB AY I N D U C T E D A M O N G T H E L AT E S TM E M B E R S O F T H E C LU B O F T H E M O S TB E A U T I F U L B AY S I N T H E W O R L DThe Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World, aninternational association founded in 1997 to promote thepreservation and sustainable management of coastal areas,has inducted Martinique’s Fort-de-France among its latestmembers. The announcement was made in November 2011at World Travel Market (WTM), the leading global event forthe travel industry held annually in London.

Other bays also admitted to The Club of the Most BeautifulBays in the World at WTM 2011 include Horta Bay(Portugal), Roses Bay (Spain) and La Baule Bay (France).

The Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World is currently comprised of some 35 bays spread across more than30 different countries and territories across the globe. Createdin 1997, with its headquarters in France, The Club pursuesobjectives of preservation, enhancement and promotion of thenatural, cultural and economic importance of bays.

For more information on The Club of the Most Beautiful Baysin the World, visit www.world-bays.com.




F E B R U A R Y – C A R N I V A LFrom Rio to Trinidad to New Orleans, Carnival is the world’s most celebrated pre-Lenten fete, but all pale in comparison toMartinique’s Carnival in one key area: length. Each year as revelers in other Carnival hot spots wind down with the close ofShrove Tuesday, the party in Martinique keeps going, reaching a decadent climax on one of the most solemn days on the Christiancalendar, Ash Wednesday. The fitting theme for Martinique’s “bonus” days of revelry: “Rejoice Today, Repent Tomorrow.”

M A Y – M A Y I N S A I N T P I E R R EFormerly known as the “Paris of the Caribbean,” the northern coastal town of Saint Pierre was instantly transformedinto the “Pompeii of the Caribbean” when on May 8, 1902, Mount Pelee erupted. Out of the centuries-old destruction,Saint Pierre has emerged a quaint yet vibrant town, offering visitors a unique view of the island’s storied past. The Mayin Saint Pierre event commemorates the anniversary of the eruption with a series of lectures, presentations and guidedtours offering greater insight into this historic event.

M A Y – S A I N T E M A R I E C U L I N A R Y W E E KMartinique shares, with distinctive panache, mainland France’s love for gastronomy. One of the best expressions of thispassion occurs each year during Sainte-Marie Culinary Week, a weeklong festival celebrating Martinique’s uniquegastronomic heritage and traditions. At the center of the festivities is a cooking competition. Each year, several localfood products are chosen for competing chefs to use as the centerpiece of their culinary creations. The competitionextends throughout the week, with special dinners, cooking demonstrations, a street fair and more providing an in-depth introduction to Martinique’s culinary scene.

J U N E – F Ê T E D E L A M U S I Q U ESome of the world’s greatest musical forms hail from the Caribbean, with reggae (Jamaica) and calypso (Trinidad) asthe most widely known, but true music lovers know that Martinique also ranks among the music capitals of the region.

Martinique is the birthplace of Zouk, a rhythmic musical formdeveloped in the 1980s through a mix of many different styles,including compas, balakadri, cadence and bal granmoun, mazurkaand biguine, French and American pop, and kadans, gwo ka andother indigenous styles.La Fête de la Musique is a celebration of Martinique’s rich musical tradition with free concerts performedin the streets throughout the island.

J U L Y – T O U R D E S Y O L E S R O N D E SCarnival and sea are brought together for a celebration unlikeany other during Martinique’s famed Yawl Boat Race (Tour desYoles Rondes). Held each summer over a one-week period, theYawl Race attracts local and international yachtsmen skilled insailing traditional yawl boats for a race around the island. The race is contested in stages with throngs of locals andvisitors crowding the shores to cheer on the racers. Carnival-style celebrations punctuate each day’s victory earned along theway, while on the high seas hundreds of yachts, catamarans,speedboats, and other private vessels trail the racers, partyingalong the way.

J U L Y – L E T O U R D E M A R T I N I Q U ELe Tour de Martinique is a smaller version of the famed Le Tour de France bicycle race. Just like its larger cousin, Le Tour de Martinique is held each summer and features an international field of riders competing in stages. The race reachesvirtually every corner of the island, with fans and spectators liningthe day’s route to offer cheers and support.

N O V E M B E R – L A B E L L E M A R T I N I Q U ELess competitive than Le Tour de Martinique, this amateur cyclingrace is ideal for recreational riders seeking an alternate way totour the Isle of Flowers. Locals as well as visiting riders participateannually, with crowds lining the course each day.

D E C E M B E R – M A R T I N I Q U E J A Z Z F E S T I V A LThe Caribbean’s longest running jazz festival, the Martinique Jazz Festival, has long provided a showcase for local and international artists to share their talents with a lively andappreciative crowd of music lovers from all corners of the globe.Jazz luminaries who have performed at the Martinique JazzFestival in years past include the Marsalis brothers, Dee DeeBridgewater, Paquito d’Rivera, Chucho Valdes, and many more.

For more information on travel to Martinique, visitwww.martinique.org.

Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, 825 3rd Avenue, 29th Floor, New York, NY 10022Tel: 212 838 6887 – Fax: 212 838 7855Email: [email protected]

UPCOMING EVENTS


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2012 MARKS THE END OF AN ANCIENT MAYAN CALENDARCYCLE, and that means excitement on the Yucatan Peninsula.Located just hours from Cancun, the purpose-built cruise portPuerto Costa Maya is a gateway to thrilling adventures,educational experiences and one-of-a-kind culture.

2012 will be a mystical year, and passengers certainly willnot want to miss it.

Architects had the past in mind when they designed thismodern port complex. Puerto Costa Maya looks like anancient Mayan City, but it’s a thoroughly contemporarycruise port that can accommodate three shipssimultaneously, including the largest and biggest ships ofthe industry, the Oasis class. Passengers aboard those shipswill find food, shopping and a gateway to adventure aroundPuerto Costa Maya’s three main pavilions.

H E A D O F T H E C L A S SIn short, Puerto Costa Maya has everything you could expectof a first-class cruise port. Voted Seatrade Insider’s “Port ofthe Year,” Costa Maya has some big-name representation.In addition to some fine little restaurants and bars, nowoperated by Anderson’s Group (Señor Frogs and Carlos &Charlie’s), a Hard Rock Café is less than a thousand feet from

Costa Maya, the Land of Adventure the port’s main complex, and a Señor Frogs is not far fromthat. There’s even a beach club at the port with a saltwaterpool. Costa Maya’s Dolphin Discovery is the firstdolphinarium facility to be located within a cruise terminal.It offers both “dolphin encounter” and “dolphin swim” touroptions to visitors. Featuring up to 10 dolphins, experttrainers take guests through a complete explanation aboutdolphin anatomy, psychology, nature and how theycommunicate underwater. The dolphins also perform flipsand jumps with visitors in the water.

For any interested in learning a little more about the Mayanculture, a Temazcal Ceremony is just the thing. All of theMayan myth and legend about the 2012 end cycle will be brought to life in this spiritual encounter with nature. This Mesoamerican purifying ceremony happens at thePawantun Jungle Oasis, where a shaman will align eachguest with the four elements — earth, wind, fire and water— inside the symbolic “Womb of Mother Earth.” It’s a littlehard to explain, but this spiritual rebirth is a fantastic


introduction to the mysticism of ancient Mayan culture anda great way to learn and understand the mystic Mayancalendar and the importance of the date December 21, 2012.

For people who prefer a little adrenaline and outdooradventure with their culture and education, Puerto CostaMaya offers plenty of excursion opportunities. At theBiomaya Canopy Experience tour, guests navigate thetropical canopy with zip-lines off towers higher than 2,500 feet that soar through the jungle and offer glimpsesof monkeys and macaws. They can also enjoy the thrill of adune buggy along the coastline or navigate the tranquilturquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea on a catamaran sail.

In Costa Maya, we say, “Don’t miss the mysticism in 2012.”While this year holds a lot of significance, and it will be a great time to visit Costa Maya, there are some attractionsthat are truly timeless. One of these, The Meso-AmericanCoral Reef, is the second largest in the world, sheltering allof Costa Maya.

Equally timeless are the ancient Mayan ruins on theoutskirts of Costa Maya. From the years 200 B.C. to A.D.900, the Mayan tribe was active in the western lowlandarea, now known as the Mexican state Quintana Roo, home to Puerto Costa Maya. Vestiges of ancient buildingsare scattered all around the region, but there are fewparticularly popular ones where the mystic history of thearea is palpable. The impressive buildings at Dzibanché,Chacchoben and newly unearthed Ichkabal stand today assome of the area’s premier cultural attractions.

Please note that each of these, and all other attractions, can be reached on air-conditioned shuttle buses.

Dzibanché is a great settlement that dates back to A.D. 200and means literally “writing on wood.” The site’s templenumber 6 — an imposing, impressive pyramid — houses theancient glyphs that lend the site its name. Dzibanché is a favorite among the area’s archeological and historical buffs.

Chacchoben’s three excavated and restored pyramids aremagnificent, and the excavation is ongoing. What may beeven more amazing are the surrounding trees and the beautythey lend to the structures. Sapodilla, fig trees, pepper trees,mahogany and chaca are just a few of the specimens thattravelers will find.

Ichkabal’s newly discovered Mayan ruins are in the vicinityof Costa Maya and are scheduled to open to visitors in late2012. It has a 45-meter-high pyramid.


W E ’ V E G O T C O M PA N YSeveral of the cruise industry’s newest and largest ships visiton a regular basis, including the world’s largest sister ships,Royal Caribbean International’s 225,000-ton Oasis of the Seasand Allure of the Seas, Norwegian Cruise Line’s NorwegianEpic, Carnival Cruise Lines’ Dream and Magic, CelebrityCruises’ Celebrity Eclipse and Princess Cruises’ CrownPrincess. Costa Maya is currently the only port in Mexico thatcan handle two Oasis-class, Epic-class or Dream-class shipssimultaneously. Also, Costa Maya will soon receive the DisneyFantasy, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship.

The main complex has a 70,000-square-foot shopping centerand bazaar, a beach club, saltwater pool and restaurantsand bars. The 70-some shops include artisan boutiques withMexican souvenirs including silver, leather, vanilla, liquorand pottery, as well as T-shirt stores and familiar retailers,such as Diamonds International. It also has a drug store,bathrooms and a first aid station.

In conclusion, Costa Maya has the modern comforts any cruisepassenger would expect of a modern port. It also has a history,culture and feel all its own. Don’t miss the mysticism and themagic. Suggest Costa Maya itineraries to your friends today.You’ll be granting them a spiritual experience they’ll never forgetand an adventure they won’t stop thanking you for.

Don’t miss the mysticism; come to Costa Maya, the Land of Adventure!





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NICARAGUA, CENTRAL AMERICA’S HOTTEST NEW TOURISTDESTINATION, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.It is a country full of activities and attractions suitable for allinterests, offering a beautiful landscape of well-preservednature that includes 70 different ecosystems, semi-virginbeaches, volcanoes and lush rainforests.

We are a well-rounded country, complete with aninteresting history, cultural traditions, art, music anddance. Our culture, paired with our extraordinarylandscape, makes visiting Nicaragua an exciting journeyfor the senses and the imagination.

We are proud to be the safest country in Central America. A keyfocus of ours is the wellness of our visitors while introducingthem to an environment in harmony with nature.

The Land of Lakes and VolcanoesCULTURAL HERITAGE

G R A N A D A : T H E R O M A N T I C TO W N O FT H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L P O E T R Y F E S T I V A LThe city of Granada is popular among tourists due to itshistory and Spanish colonial architecture, which datesback to the early 16th century, paying homage to thecountry’s Spanish roots. Granada’s cultural and romanticprofile has become the backdrop to the InternationalPoetry Festival since 2005. This annual event is acelebration of poetry and culture with poets from all overthe world participating, and it is currently the largestpoetry event in Central America.

L E Ó NLeón is one of the oldest and most interesting cities inNicaragua; in fact, it is really two cities. Visitors canexplore the ruins of one of the first Spanish colonial citiesbuilt on the continent, which was destroyed in anearthquake. The 17th-century ruins are preserved thanksto the lava and ashes that buried the city. The elegant“new” city of León preserves its attractive historicalcenter and colonial buildings.

León’s old cathedral was awarded World Heritage Sitestatus by the United Nations Educational, Scientific andCultural Organization (UNESCO). The site's nomination isNicaragua's third cultural landmark, following the ruins ofLeón Viejo and El Güegüense.




E L G Ü E G Ü E N S E“El Güegüense” is a satirical drama that combines Spanish andindigenous theater, dance and music. It is considered one ofthe most important works of the colonial era in Latin America.

G A R I F U N A C U L T U R EIn 2001 UNESCO proclaimed the language, dance andmusic of the Garifuna as a “Masterpiece of the Oral andIntangible Heritage of Humanity in Nicaragua, Hondurasand Belize.” In 2005, the First Garifuna Summit was heldon Corn Island, Nicaragua, with the participation of otherCentral American countries.

F O L K L O R EThe best examples of Nicaraguan folklore can be found in themusic and dance performances that take place during patronsaint festivities in a variety of Nicaraguan towns. Thesefolkloric celebrations of patron saints combine the Spanishcolonial influence with indigenous celebratory elements.

PRE-COLUMBIAN HISTORY Z A PA T E R A I S L A N DZapatera is an archaeological site located on Isla Zapatera,a volcanic island in Lake Nicaragua, Granada Department,Nicaragua. The large quantity of statues, petroglyphs andpottery found at the site, and on other islands in theZapatera archipelago, suggest the area was an importantceremonial center of pre-Columbian Chorotega peoplebetween 800 and 1350.

N A T U R EWith 25 volcanoes and countless lakes, rivers and lagoons,Nicaragua is known as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes.”Only in Nicaragua can you navigate through rivers andlakes from the Caribbean nearly to the Pacific, due to theRío San Juan intersecting Lake Nicaragua. With a wideassortment of landscapes and habitats that allow for manydifferent types of vegetation and animal species toflourish, Nicaragua is proud of its tremendous ecologicaldiversity, offering more than 70 unique ecosystems. In Nicaragua you will discover 7 percent of the world’s bio-diversity and learn why Nicaragua is considered “the second lung of the Americas.”

Today, although it is shrinking, there is still a rainforest thathas been left relatively untouched. The eastern region of thecountry is home to some of the bigger forests, with tworeserves that offer a wide variety of vegetation and animals:the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve, located in the southeastnear the San Juan River, and the Bosawas BiosphereReserve, located in the northeast.


O M E T E P E I S L A N DLocated in Lake Nicaragua, the island of Ometepe houses twovolcanoes and is the world’s largest volcanic island inside afreshwater lake. One of nature’s most fascinating and beautifulspots, the island attracts more and more people every year. In 2010, Ometepe was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reservebecause it demonstrates a balanced relationship between manand nature and is being developed in an eco-friendly manner.

B E A C H E SBecause it borders two oceans, Nicaragua is a sun-and-sanddestination. The Pacific side offers hilled beaches and bays,with unforgettable swimming, surfing and sunsets. TheCaribbean coast is picture-perfect with the classic turquoisesea, white sand beaches and perfectly placed palm trees —


the ideal getaway. Colorado Beach, on Nicaragua’s southwest Pacific coast, was the site for the International SurfingAssociation’s World Masters Surfing Championships in July 2012.

ADVENTURES U R F I N GThe beaches of Nicaragua, especially those on the country’s southwest Pacific coast, are known for impressive surfand unexploited beauty. The most popular destination for surfers from around the world is a 37-mile stretch ofbeaches north and south of San Juan del Sur. This region was a stop on Quicksilver’s The Crossing in 2003, a worldwide quest in search of “the perfect wave.” Nicaragua was also host to the 2012 ISA World Masters SurfingChampionships. Maderas, a secluded beach beloved by locals and visitors alike, is one of the surfing community’sbest-kept secrets.

S P O R T F I S H I N GSport fishing is truly one of Nicaragua’s greatest draws. With two oceans, gigantic lakes, multiple rivers and invitinglagoons, Nicaragua has something different to reel in every fishing enthusiast.



C A N O P Y Canopy adventures can be experienced around the countryin a variety of environments and settings, whether taking anexhilarating ride through rainforests, coasting over lakes,rivers, lagoons or flying high above coffee plantations. Withall tours, whether wildlife watching or adrenaline-pumpingadventure, safety is always a priority.

H I K I N GThe Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve has multiple trailswith specialized guides to help point out native vegetation,including hundreds of species of orchids. For the moreadventurous traveler, Nicaragua also has many activevolcanoes that can be hiked, climbed and even skied. For amore rigorous, yet breathtaking, outing, climb the two largevolcanoes of Ometepe Island: Concepcion and Maderas,which features petroglyphs, waterfalls and a beautifullagoon in the volcano’s crater. Momotombo, one of the mostchallenging climbs in the country, provides spectacularpanoramic views of its surroundings.

EXTREME ADVENTURE: SANDBOARD INGDOWN THE CERRO NEGROA recent trend in extreme adventure is skiing or “boarding”down the rocky volcanic slope of the Cerro Negro Volcano,an active volcano just east of León. (Cerro Negro is also oneof the youngest volcanoes on the planet.)

Nicaragua offers a host of excellent options for the casualobserver and the active participant.


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YOU MAY HAVE COME ACROSS RECENT PUBLICATIONS RECOMMENDING PANAMA as one of the top destinations for travel,most notably in the New York Times, Travel & Leisure, Forbes, National Geographic and the Financial Times, among others. Many others still boast about Panama’s attractiveness for real estate values and retirement and medical benefits. This isundoubtedly great publicity for the country of Panama, and we can assure you that the hype is well-deserved.

Since the turnover of the Panama Canal from U.S. control to Panama on the 31st of December in 1999, the tropical isthmushas emerged as one of the top financial and banking centers of Latin America, with more than 70 general and internationally licensed banks and service as the regional headquarters for 60 multinational corporations. One of the largestdevelopment projects in the world is also being developed in the country’s former Howard Air Force Base, now called PanamaPacifico, a $10 billion mixed real estate project, which has been established by the Panamanian government as a specialeconomic zone that provides special tax, labor and legal incentives. Panama’s stable political environment and U.S. Dollareconomy, along with new tax reforms and reformed investment policies and laws that include special incentives like thePanama Pacifico special economic zone, have driven up investment ratings. Rating agencies such as Fitch Ratings, Standard& Poor’s and Moody’s have moved Panama’s sovereign rating to investment grade in 2010, and Fitch and Standard & Poor’supgraded their ratings once again in 2011 from “stable” to “positive.” Furthermore, Panama’s unemployment level of 4.5 percent is one of the lowest in all of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the national economy grew an impressive 10.4 percent last year, which is a strong indicator of the country’s continued growth and sustainability.

With the recently approved free trade agreement with the United States, not only are investments growing in Panama, but international conferences and incentive tourism interest have suddenly shot up in popularity due to Panama’s exotic andcost-effective appeal. There are now a multitude of internationally recognized hotels and resorts available throughout thecountry, including the recently opened Trump Ocean Club International Hotel & Tower and the soon-to-be-opened WaldorfAstoria Panamera. Panama also has the largest convention center in the region, which is unique in that it grants tax deductionsto any U.S.-based company for business expenses incurred while in the country.

A LW A Y S G R O W I N GThe Panama Canal expansion project is also making international headlines, and it is one of the country’s most recent engineeringprojects aimed at providing valuable infrastructure and development. This $5.25-billion investment will enable increased ship trafficflow through the canal and double the cargo capacity, which is already close to reaching its top capacity with the average annualvessel traffic of 13,000. Observing this historic expansion and the Canal in its current state is a must for visitors before the project’scompletion in 2014. And despite the economic crisis in Europe and the decrease in demand from the United States, substantialgrowth has also been reported in the country’s ports, which have been undoubtedly aided by the record increase of containers andtonnage recorded transiting the Canal in 2011. The Canal had an unprecedented increase in its 97 years of operation with 322.1 million tons, which was a 7.1 percent increase over the previous year’s record. The Atlantic and Pacific international cruiseterminals on either side of the Canal have seen a boost in cruise activity, particularly after the Colon 2000 home port terminal wasconstructed to accommodate the increase in demand from cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, Royal CaribbeanInternational, Pullmantur and Celebrity Cruises, among others. Panama’s duty-free zone in the province of Colon, the 2nd largest inthe world to Hong Kong, has also seen positive growth related to the country’s economic boom.

The country’s other major development project is the building of a new Metro public transportation system, which initiatedconstruction of its first city line in 2011 and is expected to be completed in 2014. The Metro is part of a larger effort on behalfof the national government to modernize the country’s public transportation system, which includes an improved bus systemand enhancements to the roads, highways and major port terminals. The Metro project’s entire network of lines is expectedto be fully completed to serve the capital city of Panama and its neighboring suburbs and cities in 2035. Once completed, this new metro system will place Panama first in the Central American countries as having one of the most moderntransportation systems within the region.

Panama — Worth the Success


S U S T A I N A B L E T O U R I S MIn addition to economic growth and development in financialand infrastructure sectors, there has been a strong and consistent rise in tourism to the country due to its uniqueand diverse cultural and historic attractions. The original cityof Panama, Panama Viejo, was the first European settlementto be founded on the Pacific coast of the Americas. Thecountry has a rich history of colonial trade, which wasprimarily concentrated on the transportation andsafekeeping of precious gold, silver and other artifacts forthe Spanish crown. This history can be relived andremembered amidst the many colonial ruins, preservedquarters and fortresses. These sites of major battles againstinfamous pirates of the 16th century are now UNESCOWorld Heritage sites, including the archeological sites ofPanama Viejo and the colonial quarters of Casco Viejo. Infact, Panama holds five UNESCO World Heritage sites, bothnatural and cultural.

Nature is certainly one of Panama’s top treasures.Etymologically, the word Panama generally means “abundanceof fish, trees and butterflies,” and with three of the country’smany national parks and reserves having been declaredUNESCO World Heritage sites, there is no questioning thecountry’s ecological appeal. The country boasts more than 1,500 islands, beautiful and secluded beaches on both thePacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea and extinct volcanoes; over30 percent of its territory is protected within national parks andreserves. Panama has been recognized internationally not onlyfor its natural beauty and ecological biodiversity, but also for itsadventure-tourism attractions. Panama has gained a positivereputation as a top destination for tourists seeking jungleadventures or beach getaways and is internationally recognizedfor providing some of the best opportunities for sport fishing,diving, snorkeling and surfing. Coupled with the country’s uniquefree travel insurance covering medical emergencies for all itstourists, it’s no wonder Panama has surged in recent years underthe popular radar of international travelers.

Sustainable tourism is one of Panama’s goals fordevelopment beyond the city limits and offers visitors unique opportunities to engage with existing indigenous cultures.Tourists in Panama can meet the seven autonomousindigenous communities that have kept their languages and traditions alive since before Christopher Columbus arrivedin the Americas. Most famous are the Guna Indians, formerly known as “Kuna,” who inhabit their autonomousGuna Yala Province of San Blas. The 365 San Blas islandshave been lauded as possessing some of the most pristineand beautiful beaches of the world with stunning coral reefsrivaling many of those within the Caribbean Sea.





Folklore is another strong element of the sustainable tourism goals of the country, and it vibrantly resonates throughout Panamaand is manifested in various colorful festivals that take place year-round. Carnival, reigning as one of the most populartraditional festivities, is held annually in February before the Christian practice of Lent. Various history and art museums arealso available throughout the country. The most notable of late is the future inauguration of the Museum of Biodiversity in2013, designed by the internationally renowned architect Frank Gehry, designer of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao andthe Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

Culture and art seekers will be delighted to discover that Panama boasts not only an important colonial history, a thriving indigenousculture and rich folkloric traditions and customs, but also a contemporary new wave of emerging artists and cultural offerings.Music, art, theatre and film events are proliferating as a result of the economic growth and rise in cultural imports from increasedimmigration to the country. The International Jazz Festival, now in its ninth year and celebrated in the month of January, successfullybrings internationally celebrated musicians every year to perform for local audiences and to participate in an educational exchangeof music. A highly anticipated cultural offering which made its grand entrance into the Panamanian artistic scene was the firstedition of the International Film Festival of Panama, which took place in April and May this year. It attracted international celebritiesand film industry professionals from around the world to celebrate the art in Panama City.

As a result of the cosmopolitan exchange of cultures and rise in immigration to Panama, the country is experiencing great socialchanges. In addition to the aforementioned cultural and artistic scenes, the country is also seeing a revival in its gastronomy. Manynew restaurants provide a variety of international cuisines, as well as incorporating typical Panamanian food through fusions, whichhas also become popular. Nightlife in Panama is lively and also diversifying to the desires of its multicultural citizens.

Panama is also affordable and easy to get to with its increased airline connectivity, one of the highest in the world, offeringdirect flights to more than 28 countries. The country’s national airline carrier, COPA Airlines, even offers a free stopover plan.Alternatively, if passengers experience long wait times while making their air connections in Panama, they can take advantageof the free bus service to many of the new cosmopolitan shopping malls in the city to occupy their time.

In summary, Panama has something for everyone. The relative ease of travel, along with Panama’s other great attractions and benefits,should provide the incentive and opportunity for everyone to consider visiting the country, particularly those already making theirconnections through Panama, and see for themselves that Panama really has become an outstanding, irresistible tourist destination.



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FEW PLACES ON EARTH CAN BOAST about having the combination of natural beauty and urban attractions that Puerto Ricohas. While the entire island offers a rich bounty of nature’s wonders, San Juan offers attractions as diverse as its 500-yearold history: museums, galleries, shopping centers and excellent restaurants. Puerto Rico is a quality destination, with adedication to excellence that encompasses our people, our products, our services, our ecosystem and our lifestyle. This year,Puerto Rico has been recognized by a variety of travel media as a great destination. For example, Puerto Rico obtained the topspot in Fodor’s top 10 destinations in the Caribbean; CNN Travel gave Puerto Rico third position among the world’s top 10destinations at which to spend Christmas; and the island municipality of Vieques was given the eighth position by Conde NastTraveller among the top 10 islands in the Atlantic.

Moreover, Puerto Rico has a key geographical location that makes it the gateway to the southern and eastern Caribbean.Puerto Rico makes it far easier for cruise lines to reach the other islands because of the shorter traveling distances andsubsequent savings in fuel. Air access is one of the greatest advantages we have as a homeport. As a transit destination, wealso have a distinct advantage in that Puerto Rico’s overall destination offering is the best in the Caribbean, given our diversifiedterrain and superior infrastructure. And our proximity to other islands makes Puerto Rico an easy stop.

Puerto Rico receives over 1.2 million cruise passengers on a yearly basis. Our cruise industry significantly contributes to oureconomy, generating close to 5,000 jobs and having an impact of more than $240 million, annually, on the island’s economy.San Juan is currently served by 14 cruise lines and is homeport to seven of them. While Puerto Rico’s cruise ship businesshas matured over time, there is still much room for growth. The island has seen a 34 percent increase in homeport passengers.

Gateway to the Eastern Caribbean


The forecast for 2011 is that total visitors will grow by 8 percent, the first overall industry increase in five years.We are the main homeport facility in the Caribbean,receiving half a million homeport passengers per year, for atotal of 1.2 million passengers per year. Additionally, we are the best-prepared destination in the region forprovisioning cruise ships.

We have found that the cruise ship visitors are a captivemarket for promoting land stays, as 62 percent of cruiserswho explore a vacation destination return as stay-overguests. Homeport passengers have an average pre-/post-stay of almost two nights in San Juan. And cruise shippassenger expenditures in San Juan have an economicimpact of over $180 million per year. It is clear that it isof strategic importance for Puerto Rico to grow thiseconomic sector.

G E T T I N G E V E N B E T T E RPuerto Rico’s strategy seeks to facilitate everyone’s growthby reinforcing major initiatives that ultimately benefit theentire cruise sector. Among these are: improving air accessfor our homeport passengers, offering attractive incentivesto cruise lines, improving the quality of our product andincreasing attractions and tour offerings.

We have improved air access to the island, which hasresulted in more frequent visits and new routes from cruisefeeder markets. For example, Air Tran and JetBlue willcommence flying from Tampa with two daily flights each.Also, AirTran has added two daily flights from Baltimore,and JetBlue announced new daily service fromJacksonville. Finally, British Airways has announced thatthey will begin servicing San Juan from Gatwick twice a week. Puerto Rico’s main international airport in San Juan now counts a year-round average of 421 weeklyflights to 21 US destinations, 27 weekly flights to 6 international destinations and 643 weekly flights to 24 destinations in the Caribbean. A well-diversified baseof airlines serves these routes, including Air Canada, Air Sunshine, AirTran, American Airlines, American Eagle,British Airways, Cape Air, Continental, Copa, Delta, Iberia,Insel, JetBlue, LIAT, Spirit Airlines, Sunwing, United, US Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

In order to financially attract cruise business to Puerto Rico,we have developed what has become the standardincentives model for the cruise ship industry in theCaribbean. The incentives law establishes a fund topromote the island’s cruise ship industry, providing cruiselines with incentives for provisioning locally, for increasing



the volume of passengers visiting the island, a destination incentive, a frequent visit or homeport incentive and a transitincentive, among others. These incentives are from a joint fund that operates with $5 million from the Puerto Rico TourismCompany and another $4 million from the central government’s General Fund.

The quality of our product is of particular importance. We have begun a project to organize the tourism transportation logisticsat the San Juan port area in order to ensure our visitors a better arrival experience. This project will also include a signageinitiative that will correctly direct visitors toward the historical sites of Old San Juan. As for product enhancement, we havebroadened the available excursions for passengers, thanks to the introduction of new attractions, such as the Toro Verdeecological adventure, where visitors glide through a rainforest canopy on a lengthy cable system, providing them with a realbird’s-eye view of the treetops and their ecology. For children, we also have a new Natural History Museum and the Punto Verde eco-park, where they can learn about nature and how we can best preserve and protect our natural environment.These new attractions only add to the experience of visiting El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. ForestService system.

Puerto Rico has also embarked on a multi-year redevelopment program for the San Juan Waterfront, which will provide anumber of new attractions, hotels, parks, pedestrian and bicycle trails, and it will interconnect the waterfront with the oldcity, the Convention Center District and the Condado area. This program will enhance historical Old San Juan, described byConde Nast as a “treasure in a teacup” and recognized by Travel + Leisure Magazine as one of the preferred tourism citiesamong travelers.

Come see how Puerto Rico Does It Better!





Escape…Award-WinningUnmatched Beauty,

Voted “World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination”

8 times by the World Travel Awards

The adventure starts the moment you see the majestic Pitons across the

horizon, and you enter the deep blue waters of the most exotic island in the

Caribbean… Saint Lucia.

With two major cruise ports, disembarkation is effortless and a tropical escape

is just moments away. Whether your guests are avid tourists or explorers at

heart, cruise guests are guaranteed to embark on the experience of a lifetime.

Saint Lucia offers a wide range of exciting tours, such as ziplining through our

lush rain forests, snorkeling off our pristine beaches, Sulphur Springs - the

world’s only drive-through volcano, great duty free shopping nearby and our

warm hospitality; the perfect holiday escape is waiting for everyone!

visit us at stlucianow.comTo speak to a Saint Lucia agent, call 1.800.456.3984

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THERE IS GOOD REASON WHY SAINT LUCIA TOPS THE “MUST VISIT” LISTS OF THE TRAVEL SAVVY. The island exudes acharm and character expected of quaint Caribbean destinations, yet has a rich and captivating culture that envelops one and all.

A mere 238-square-mile island, Saint Lucia’s natural and intellectual contributions to the world are a source of wonder. Hereyou will find sulphur springs, tropical rainforests, many natural waterfalls, the world’s only drive-in volcano, preserved ruinsfrom century-old military holdings, and a host of sites of artistic, architectural, historic and archaeological interest. Both white-and black-sand beaches abound, and for those inclined toward the panoramic kaleidoscope of the marine world, there is noend to adventure through snorkelling, scuba diving and other water sports. It is the setting for modern fairytales and heroictales from Superman to Pirates of the Caribbean, and it is ready to host your story.

Evidence of Saint Lucia’s standing as a supreme destination is accentuated by a number of awards and accolades bestowedon the destination, its resorts and events, including the annual Jazz Festival. Saint Lucia’s international recognition as theultimate romantic playground for lovers has been highlighted with the award for “World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination”for eight years. The island’s romance factor is a combination of its lush beauty; charming, friendly people; romantic activities;and exquisite luxury resorts.

Saint Lucia is the perfect haven for those looking to unwind and escape the everyday stresses with its quiet enchantment,world-class resorts and spas, and stunning locales. The island has perfected the balance between maintaining its pristine,untouched and rustic nature while remaining a modern and vibrant destination. The island is not solely for those in the throesof love or someone looking to unwind on a secluded beach, but its exciting culture, music and cuisine make Saint Lucia perfectfor anyone seeking an engaging and stimulating getaway.

A D V E N T U R E S A W A I TSaint Lucia presents a variety of adventure opportunities, regardless of your fitness or activity level. You can start off byenjoying the incredibly mysterious pools of the Sulphur Springs (mud baths) and the mineral baths at the Diamond Waterfall,which replenish the skin, relieve ailments and soak away tension.

Experience the habitats Saint Lucia provides for many interesting species. Endangered birds find sanctuary in national forests, and the endemic Saint Lucia whiptail flashes its brilliant, blue tail only on the Maria Islands. Diamond Botanical gardens celebratetropical foliage along meandering paths; the diverse gardens flow one to the next, each with individual charm and distinctive themes.

Discover a “living museum” within a natural setting. Pigeon Island National Landmark, a 40-acre park that retraces the manyhistorical legends of Saint Lucia, showcases the local wildlife and is surrounded by fantastic seascapes. Visitors to the parkcan amble at their own pace among the remnants of Admiral Rodney’s naval base, take a refreshing dip in one of the cozycoves; or hike to the heights of the fort to gape at the spectacular 360-degree view.

You can make your sightseeing more of an exhilarating journey by enjoying enchanting hikes through the rainforest. Choosefrom our many trails, including Des Cartiers and Barre de L’Isle trails. You can also take a hike up the majestic twin peaks ofthe Pitons that soar from the sea’s surface to heights of more than 2,400 and 2,600 feet. Bird-watching tours along the varioustrails can also be arranged; catch sight of some of Saint Lucia’s delightful endemic species.

A rush through nature best describes the fascinating ziplining adventures. Zip along a cable extended from one treeplatform to the next and view the massive rainforest trees. This is the perfect way to add a touch of adventure whileexploring the beauty of Saint Lucian rainforests. You can also enjoy every bit of Saint Lucia on horseback, ATV, mountainbike or jeep explorations.

The Ultimate Destination


On the east side of the island, windsurfing and kitesurfingenthusiasts take advantage of the constant breeze along theAtlantic coastline for one exhilarating ride. Alternatively, thescenic west coast is perfect for delightful day-cruises andromantic sunset-sailing, and it is one of the leading sites inthe Caribbean to encounter playful dolphins and migratingwhales. The calm bays and natural coves along the westcoast are ideal for kayaking, waterskiing, jet skiing,parasailing and sailing.

Discover untold mysteries beneath the sea at Saint Lucia’smyriad dive locations. The shallow fringing reef is teeming withcoral and fish life providing colorful dive sites for beginnersand snorkelers, with certified dive masters and instructors on-hand. More advanced scuba divers can enjoy exploringshipwrecks or getting carried away in exciting drift dives, as the shelf falls off into steep walls and coral encrusted rifts.

The island also offers quality sports facilities, including an attractively landscaped championship golf course andtennis courts. Take time to relax with a round of golf on apicturesque course.

C U L T U R E A N D R O M A N C EBask in the culture, which is a potent mix of African andEuropean influences, well evident in the Creole language,cuisine, folkways, religion and vibrant traditions. Animated,rhythmic and colorful, these cultural side dishes can beenjoyed as appetizers at your hotel or as a main course atsuch village and national festivals as the La Rose and LaMarguerite Flower Festivals, Carnival, the weekly Gros IsletFriday Night Street Party, Anse-La-Raye Fish Fry, DenneryFish Fry, and the annual Creole Day Festival.

Saint Lucia’s calendar of activities bustles with a number ofopportunities to mingle with the locals and experience first-hand the thrills of island living. The island heats up duringthe highly anticipated Jazz Festival held every May. TheSaint Lucia Jazz Festival features a profusion of legendarymusical artists each year, with multiple venues and showsof outstanding musical performances. The excitementcontinues into July with Carnival, a colorful pulsating island-wide festivity that culminates in an electrifying two-daystreet party. Saint Lucians celebrate their cultural heritagewith the annual Jounen Kweyol (Creole Day) festival inOctober, with all Creole food, music and activities — a surefire way to experience authentic Saint Lucian culture.

Romance comes naturally in Saint Lucia, whether that’ssharing the lush, colorful landscape; the inky, black night skyawash with stars; the intensely colored sunsets; the earthy





tropical music; or an intimate table for two where kneestouch. This land of mystery and enchantment is the perfectsetting for your coming together. From an intimate beachceremony to the most lavish island affair, Saint Lucia offersyou the freedom and expertise to have your wedding dayjust the way you want it. Choose to launch your new lifetogether with a honeymoon in Saint Lucia, or celebrate yourwedding anniversary by renewing your vows — or evenrenewing your honeymoon — on the most romantic islandin the Caribbean. Nature’s own fairytale, Saint Lucia is thewinner of countless awards as a wedding and honeymoondestination. There is no waiting period for persons wantingto get married in Saint Lucia. Simply show up. Your desireis your passport.

Saint Lucia is real life setting for the modern fantasy.There is something for everyone. Dive prehistoric,underwater volcanoes. Drop anchor anywhere you wishwith invasion only from the gentle trade winds. Ride onhorseback or ATVs. Bike the Caribbean’s own Tour deFrance all-year round. There is something for everyone —for kids, for adults searching for their inner child andeverything in between. Unforgettable adventure waits foryou in Saint Lucia.



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THE ST. MAARTEN HARBOUR GROUP OF COMPANIES is a dynamic and multifaceted government-owned company. It ownsand operates the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities, ranked one of the top three ports in the Caribbean for cruise andcargo handling.

The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies’ cruise business pillar has maintained a competitive edge in the region throughconstant research and strategic planning in close collaboration with its cruise stakeholders.

Those partnerships, the country’s ideal geographic position in the Caribbean Sea and its unique Dutch/ French character haveallowed for rapid, streamlined growth.

Another contributing factor to the port’s success is the direct marketing to cruise line executives and itinerary planners by theHonorable Minister for Port Affairs, Mr. Romeo Pantophlet, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Harbour Group of Companies,Mr. Mark Mingo.

On partnerships, the Harbour Group has teamed up with two of the largest cruise lines in the world to become one of the few portsin the Caribbean to host the mega-class cruise ships (220,000-plus tonnes). The two cruise ship piers can accommodate six shipssimultaneously on any given day. The cruise facility seamlessly handles the flow of some 6,000-20,000 passengers daily.

St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies: Sail Into Opportunities




The Port of St. Maarten cruise facilities are comprised ofthe Dr. A.C. Wathey Pier, the John Craane Cruise Terminal,the Tender Jetty, Capt. Hodge Wharf, Sea Palace Wharfand Harbour Point Village. These integrated facilitiescater to the demands and needs of the cruise sector,thereby creating the ultimate cruise experience for thecruiser. Service is the top priority. Customer service andfirst-class facilities have been the driving forces behindthe success of the Port of St. Maarten.

The island as a cruise destination has grown from 105,000cruise passengers in 1980 to attracting more than onemillion cruise passengers annually since the turn of thecentury, 2000. This year, St. Maarten is expecting more than1.6 million passengers, and the forecast for 2013 is taggedat 1.7 million. With direct airlift to the U.S. and Europe, one of the goals of the port is to facilitate smaller ships in the 200-500 passenger range, which can turn around inSt. Maarten or do inter-porting.

The Harbour Group maintains a high social character drivenby the philosophy that a destination is only as good as itspeople. This principle led to significant investments in therejuvenation of the capital, Philipsburg, and pilotingsurveillance monitoring throughout the cruise facility withplans underway to expand to Philipsburg.

G R E E N H A R B O U R Environmental stewardship is also very high on the HarbourGroup’s agenda, as it strives to become the first green harborin the Caribbean. Since spring, wind turbines and solarpanels generated enough power for the port to cut its annual$1 million energy costs by approximately 35 percent.

Another green option is the purchasing of iPads formanagement to reduce paper use. “We are also studyingthe fuel situation for the cruise industry and working to findcreative solutions for how we can help and how we best fitinto itineraries” Mingo says.

C A U S E W A YInvestments are not limited to the harbor. Construction ofa 760-meter causeway to connect Airport Boulevard toCole Bay in the vicinity of Port de Plaisance is underwayfor completion in 2013. The idea of the causeway wasfirst considered in 2001 and the landmark project is finallybeing realized. The principal aim is to ease congestion inthe area, as the causeway will provide an alternativeroute to the Simpson Bay Bridge. The causeway willinclude two traffic lanes, walkways on both sides andprotective barriers.


Located almost along the Dutch-French border, thecauseway will include a state-of-the-art turning centersection, which will allow yachts to pass in both directionswhen open. When closed, the causeway will have anoverhead clearance of 6 meters (19.7 feet).

C O N S U L T A N C Y C O M PA N YIn 2011, the St. Maarten Harbour Consultancy Company wasestablished as a revenue generator for the group todisseminate its knowledge and expertise. The initial‘product’ offered by the consultancy company is the GlobalLogistics System software platform. Other areas of theHarbour Group’s business will also be offered by theconsultancy company, including its fueling operations andterminal management.

C A R G O F A C I L I T I E SThe Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities also includea cargo section, the Captain David Cargo Quay and CargoSouth Quay.

St. Maarten proudly serves as a transshipment hub for thenortheastern Caribbean, due to the island’s strategiclocation, ultra-modern cargo facilities and the provision ofefficient, reliable services to stakeholders and customers.This has made the cargo port one of the busiesttransshipment ports in this part of the Caribbean.




Some of the major cargo lines servicing the island areEurope West Indies Lines, Bernuth, CAGEMA, CMA-CGM,Seaboard Marine Lines and Tropical Shipping.

The Capt. David Cargo Quay has a length of 540 meters(1,780 feet), a docking capacity for two general lift-on-lift-off (LOLO) and three roll-on-roll-off (RORO) cargo vessels.The water depth is 10.5 meters (35 feet).

The facility includes a container storage area of over 2000TEUs. Cargo vessels can also be provided with fuel andwater services.

PORT DETAILSA U T H O R I T YSt. Maarten Harbour Group of CompaniesA.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo FacilitiesJ. Yrausquin BoulevardPO Box 5185Harbour Village Suite #13A, Point BlancheSt. Maarten

A P P R O A C HDeepwater approach to all terminals. The only hazard onapproach is the Proselyte Reef.

A C C O M M O D A T I O NCaptain David Cargo Quay: 500 meters long, with 10.5-meterdraught alongside. Plans are underway to increase thedraught to 11.5 meters to accommodate the FLV vessels.

Cruise Pier 1: 545 meters long, 691 meters includingdolphin, 12.0-meter depth alongside.Cruise Pier 2: 445 meters long, 12-meter depth alongside.

A I R P O R TPrincess Juliana International Airport is approximately 20 minutes from the seaport area with connections to theU.S. and Europe as well as regional services.

H O S P I T A LThe St. Maarten Medical Center is 10 minutes from the port.Medical facilities are also available in Philipsburg.

A N C H O R A G EGood anchorage can be found in 12.29 meters of water inGreat Bay.

“TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK”


FCCA2012_110-115 Trinidad & Tobago_Layout 1 9/1/12 1:50 PM Page 110

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO


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THE TWIN ISLAND REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO is located just seven miles off the coast of Venezuela. The southernmost of Caribbean islands, they are living proof that nature, too, saves the best for last.

Though bound together as one nation, the islands of Trinidad and Tobago could hardly be more different, and therefore offera unique double opportunity for the cruise visitor.

T R I N I D A D – T E R R I F I CTrinidad is a melting pot of ethnic groups and diverse cultures, and while each brings its separate identity to the table, thereis also a sense in which they are joyfully mixed together to create an inimitable character — The Trinidadian. The more famouslocal creations, like steel pan and calypso, are only the tip of the iceberg. The prominent Indian and African influences havemerged with the European, Chinese and Syrian cultures to fuel a vibrant society unlike any other in the world. Around Port ofSpain alone, the architecture includes a Gothic castle, a Renaissance palace, an Edwardian school and gingerbread housesstraight out of a storybook. From cricket to horse racing, from the Hindu festival of lights — Divali — to the exuberance of Hosay, the explosion of culture continues all year long.

It is most dramatically observed during the Carnival season (December to Ash Wednesday), which climaxes when thismulti-racial, multi-talented population parades the streets by the tens of thousands, in costume, on the last two daysbefore Lent. A country capable of throwing the world’s largest street party can certainly keep the visitor fascinated for a day or two.

Trinidad isn’t just Port of Spain. Its rainforests are teeming with wildlife found nowhere else in the Caribbean, including ocelots,golden tree frogs and oilbirds. A highlight to any visit is the world-famous Asa Wright Nature Centre, where Trinidad’s myriadbirds, butterflies and flowering plants (including 700 different orchids) can be viewed. For those wanting to experience natureat its wildest without straying too far from the beaten path, of particular delight is the drive to Maracas Bay along the NorthCoast Road — a more dramatic combination of coast and mountain scenery you will not find anywhere else. The trip takesabout 45 minutes from gangplank to beach.

T O B A G O – T R A N Q U I LTobago, by contrast, is an exemplar of quiet Caribbean perfection. A slower pace, endless beauty, a secret paradise.

Pristine beaches, shaded by coconut palms? Of course, but Tobago offers so much more. Historic forts, the Main Ridge ForestReserve (protected since 1776), breathtaking views, bird sanctuaries, even a championship golf course. Scuba divers will finda rare experience – the chance to swim and mingle with manta rays around Tobago’s exquisite coral reefs. There are fewplaces on the planet (and no others in the Caribbean) that can offer this. These reefs are home to what is claimed to be theworld’s largest brain coral.

E A T , D R I N K , B E M E R R YLike our rich heritage, our food palate is diverse and multicultural, offering you distinct, indigenous dishes alongside savoury fusionfood. Words like sancoche, kuchela, souse, baigan, paratha and callaloo will become part of your culinary vocabulary.

While in T&T, visitors should sample the local food. From Creole cuisine, try our world-famous bake and shark (deep-friedpieces of shark between two slices of fried dough), topped with your choice of condiments and relishes. To savor the Indianinfluence, try roti or doubles. In Tobago, try curried crab and dumpling!

Exotic drinks abound too, from coconut water to mauby and sorrel. Strange names, wonderful tastes!

DOUBLE THE EXPERIENCE



Prefer to eat on the go? Sample these tasty street food staples: • Corn soup• Doubles – deep fried flour patties stuffed with curry chickpeas• Souse — boiled and pickled pig trotters or chicken feet, served cold in a brine and seasoned with lime, cucumber, hot pepper and onion slices• Aloo pie - Indian-flavored fried potato pie.

You’ll also find a selection of dishes like pelau (similar to Spanish pilaf), roti, sancoche (a lentil soup with meat andvegetables), stews, saltfish and dumplings, local ground provisions (yams, taro) and more throughout small eateries and open-air restaurants.

I N A N U T S H E L LChristopher Columus encountered both Trinidad and Tobago in 1498. Trinidad was a Spanish colony until 1797, but was mainlysettled by the French. Tobago changed hands several times. It wasn’t until 1889 that the islands were united as a single Britishcrown colony. Trinidad and Tobago became independent in 1962 and a republic in 1976.

T R I N I D A D A N D T O B A G OCurrency: Trinidad and Tobago dollarTime Zone: GMT -4, EST +1Climate: Averages 30oC (89oF)

T R I N I D A DArea: 1,864 square milesPopulation: 1.3 millionCapital City: Port of Spain

T O B A G OArea: 116 square milesPopulation: 52,000Capital City: Scarborough

F O R C R U I S E L I N E R SFor cruise liners, Trinidad and Tobago is a dream. The islands are situated comfortably below the hurricane belt, and Port of Spain — the country’s capital — boasts one of the largest deep-water harbors in the Caribbean.

Cruise vessels dock at the Cruise Ship Complex, where disembarking passengers are greeted by dancers in dazzling Carnivalcostumes along with calypso singers or musicians playing the indigenous steel pan. Inside the terminal building, this spectaculargreeting is enhanced by the Tourist Information Office, duty-free stores, clothing boutiques and souvenir shops.

At the Tourist Information Office, visitors can instantly get recommendations on attractions, hotels and taxis from a friendlyand professional staff. The Information Office also adjusts its hours to accommodate arrivals, and, in keeping with modernlife, is a Wi-Fi hotspot. Immediately outside the terminal is a craft market, and the country’s main shopping district is just a short walk away. The spectacularly revamped waterfront area also boasts a Hyatt Regency Hotel.

All in all, Trinidad and Tobago’s strategic location as well as passenger-friendly facilities and terminals make it ideal forhomeporting, particularly for lines exploring the southern Caribbean and South American coast.

P O R T F A C I L I T I E SThe Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago operates the ports of Port of Spain (Trinidad) and Scarborough (Tobago) on a 24-hour basis.



HARBOR SPECIFICATIONS

P O R T O F S PA I NTotal Length of Quay – 2,000 meters (6,562 feet)Depth – 9.75 meters (32 feet)

S C A R B O R O U G HFinger Pier – 300 meters (984 feet)Depth – 9.0 meters (29 feet)

D O C U M E N T S R E Q U I R E D• Clearance from last port • De – Rat Certificate• International Declaration of Health• Crew List – (8) copies• Passenger Lists – (8) copies• Store Lists – (2) copies• Unmanifested Cargo Lists – (2) copies• Customs Crew Declaration – (2) copies• Immigration Arrival Form P & 1 10 – (4) copies

C O N S U L A R C L E A R A N C E SKindly contact local shipping agent in advance to obtaininformation on any clearances that may be required.

P I L O T A G EPilotage is compulsory for berthing and unberthing ofvessels. Pilotage fees are charged on the gross tonnageof the vessel.

F R E S H W A T E RWater is available alongside the quay front.

B U N K E R I N GIn Port of Spain bunkering is done by barges of 8,000-toncapacity. The barge fee is waived for cruise ships.

Hydrant bunkering dockside is available at Scarborough.Cruise ships enjoy incentive bunker rates.

T U G S E R V I C E STowage is compulsory and available at both ports.

G A R B A G E D I S P O S A LArrangements for garbage and other waste disposal canbe made through local shipping agent.

S E C U R I T YThe Port Authority operates its own security force.


VISITOR GUIDESThe Visitor Guides are strategically positioned in downtown Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, for thepurpose of extending hospitality and goodwill to all local, regional and international visitors to the capital city.

P U R P O S EThe Visitor Guides are trained to provide you with accurate information and contribute, in any way, to making the visitorexperience of Trinidad and Tobago and the capital city an enjoyable one.

H O W Y O U C A N I D E N T I F Y V I S I T O R G U I D E SAll Visitor Guides are outfitted in red shirts that bears two logos — the city of Port of Spain crest and Trinidad and Tobago’sdestination logo. Photo-identification badges accompany the logos.

W A Y S I N W H I C H W E C A N H E L PVisitor Guides can:

• Direct cruise visitors to the prime, safe shopping areas in the city and provide directional maps of the city.• Provide updates on events and happenings in the country, such as sporting events, musical events and festivals.

For detailed events listing, go to www.gotrinidadandtobago.com.• Keep an eye out for those with particular needs, such as the aged, the differently-able and adults with young children.

W H E R E Y O U C A N F I N D V I S I T O R G U I D E SVisitor Guides are usually situated within the vicinity of the Brian Lara Promenade, the largest recreational space indowntown Port of Spain. This is the first access point to the city when exiting the Cruise Ship Complex. From the BrianLara Promenade, Visitor Guides can recommend and direct visitors to a number of fascinating sites and attractions in andaround the city. The Visitor Guide uniform consists of a red shirt and black trousers or skirts. All Visitor Guides also wearphoto-identification badges.


ABOUT THE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

COMPANY LIMITED

The Tourism Development Company Limited(TDC) — the implementation arm of Trinidad andTobago’s Ministry of Tourism — has a long-termvision for the islands as a cruise destination andis working hard to develop the sector alongsidethe Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago.

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LIMITED

OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

LEVEL 1, MARITIME CENTRE, BARATARIA

REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD & TOBAGO.

TEL (868) 675-7034 OR (868) 669- 5196

FAX: (868) 675-7722

EMAIL: [email protected]

WWW.TDC.CO.TT

WWW.GOTRINIDADANDTOBAGO.COM


To learn more about the USVI email [email protected].

Captivate your clients with cruises that include the breathtaking U.S. Virgin Islands.

You Unscripted

©2011 United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.

800.372.USVI

Lost: The Beaten Path

Found: A Place Like No Other

FCCA2012_116-121 USVI_Layout 1 9/1/12 1:55 PM Page 116

U.S. V IRGIN ISLANDS


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THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS HAS SERVED AS A FAVORITE STOP FOR CRUISE LINES and passengers for years by offering a mixof exciting shore excursions, opportunities to explore local cuisine, history and culture and a variety of retail options for duty-free shopping. With its enchanting towns, magnificent coastlines, historic sites and incomparable water adventures, a world of unforgettable moments are waiting to be discovered in St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas.

W H A T ’ S N E W A N D N O T A B L EThe Department of Tourism’s ongoing commitment to its visitors and cruise lines means it’s constantly working to enhancethe cruise visitor experience; 2012 marks the continuation of a chain of new developments and refurbishments at the territory’sports of call. From recent attraction and restaurant openings to long-term improvement projects, the U.S. Virgin Islands isevolving, and the Department of Tourism is excited to welcome cruise passengers to experience it.

Visitors continue to enjoy the reopening of Mountain Top on St. Thomas. In 2011, following extensive reconstructive work,cruise passengers were once again able to access the best views of the island from its highest point of elevation. Travelerscan relax on the viewing deck and indulge in a world famous banana daiquiri — a 60-year-old recipe! — once again.

Located at Havensight Dock, The Butterfly Garden reopened on St. Thomas under the management of Coral World OceanPark. The unique attraction immerses guests in the world of the delicate butterfly, allowing interaction and observation ofsome of the most beautiful species in the world. The farm is a family favorite and, as a result of its new ownership, is offeringjoint promotions with Coral World Ocean Park, which gives guests a glimpse into underwater marine wildlife and hands-onexperience with a “touch” pool and sea lion encounters.

Also in St. Thomas, the St.Thomas Skyride tramway continues to draw cruise passengers throughout the year. St. ThomasSkyride tramway is the perfect way to savor the island’s breathtaking harbor views from 700 feet.

One of the new restaurants to open in Cruz Bay is the popular New York City Malaysian-inspired restaurant Fatty Crab. The FattyCrab crew brings its signature funky flavors and rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere that the two Fatty Crabs in New York City have come to beknown for. The menu is similar to its other locations, but incorporates produce found locally, giving the culinary team a chance toplay around with new ingredients, like the Virgin Islands’ conch, spiny lobster and fruits and vegetables indigenous to the island.This addition delights visitors and locals alike with its unique take on dining in the gorgeous Cruz Bay location.

T H E “ S P I R I T S ” O F S T . C R O I XSt. Croix remains an under-the-radar Caribbean gem rich with cultural experiences. The refurbished Ann E. Abramson MarineFacility at the Frederiksted pier area gives cruise passengers a new place to explore, and similar to its sister island, this portis seeing new developments that are sure to become essential stops on any St. Croix itinerary.

Already known as the home of Cruzan Rum, Diageo USVI, the Virgin Islands’ newest distillery, will be opening a Captain Morgan Visitor Center on St. Croix in anticipation of the Captain Morgan distillery set to produce its first batch ofrum. The visitor center allows guests to experience the rum’s unique history, production process and a little more about theCaptain himself. It will also house “The Captain’s Collection,” a stunning gathering of old and new Caribbean rums. In additionto showcasing the history and culture of rum production, the visitor center educates travelers on LEED (Leadership in Energyand Environmental Design) certification and Diageo’s commitment to sustainability and responsible drinking.

Once cruise passengers disembark in Frederiksted, they can stroll along its waterfront and enjoy the shopping and breathtakingbeaches, a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and relaxation. History buffs will enjoy a visit to nearby Estate WhimPlantation, a restored 18th-century sugar mill situated among 12 acres of majestic plantation buildings and tropical flora.

U.S. Virgin Islands Now Has Even More to Offer






Foodies can indulge in authentic West Indian dishes ladenwith spices or international cuisine infused with local flavors in one of the town’s many restaurants.

Meanwhile, Gallows Bay Dock, located only a mile fromthe charming town of Christiansted, enables guests to explore the area by foot. In Christiansted, visitors enjoytaking pictures in the historical churches, meanderingthrough pastel buildings and unique art galleries, andperusing the charming boutiques, cafés and pavilions.

Best known for the array of water activities available toguests, St. Croix’s crystal waters provide the perfectbackdrop for everything from a leisurely swim to a thrillingkayak excursion. St. Croix is also heralded as one of theworld’s top diving destinations, offering enthusiastsdives that will inspire even the most seasoned experts.The island is also home to Buck Island National ReefMonument, an underwater wonder that stretches across19,000 acres of protected land and pristine waters,beckoning visitors to explore.

To learn more about the U.S. Virgin Islands, please visitwww.visitusvi.com or call (800) 372-USVI.



For information contact

Ricky W. Kunz, Vice President Origination

713-670-2400 | www.portofhouston.comHOUSTON – WHERE YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS.

The Port of Houston Authority’s

BAYPORT CRUISE TERMINAL

simply the best culture, ambience sophistication.

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713-670-2400

. KRicky WW.


houston.comof.port www|713-670-2400

esident Originationice Pr. Kunz, V


houston.com

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THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE IN HOUSTON,making it ideal for a cruise line. Conveniently locatedbetween Houston’s two major airports, the Bayport CruiseTerminal gives visitors an opportunity to take in the manysights and experiences of the Houston area. Less than twohours cruising time from international waters, this new single-story, 96,000-square-foot facility is custom-designedand built for the cruise industry with efficiency andconvenience in mind. The embarkation lounge has 55 check-in stations, and valet parking is available in an adjacentparking lot that has 800 spaces and is expandable to 1,000.The facility has a second-story boarding corridor andfeatures a climate-controlled FMT Gangway System.

Houston is an excellent choice. This world-class city,boasting the nation’s largest port in terms of foreign tonnage,offers visitors every possible experience imaginable.

Houston – Where Your Journey BeginsWhatever your taste, whatever your pleasure, Houston hasit to offer: recreation, shopping, sports, the arts, nature, cuisine and culture.

R E C R E A T I O NWith mild temperatures even through the coldest months ofthe year, every form of recreation (short of snow skiing) canbe enjoyed year-round. An average annual temperature of70 degrees and 250 sunny days per year makes Houston a recreational paradise.

Houston may be the nation’s fourth largest city, but it is alsoone of the greenest. You can walk, run, bike or roller skatealong more than 100 miles of scenic trail systems. You’llforget you’re in a city as you admire the trees, wildflowersand wildlife along the way. Paddlers can find canoe andkayak launches along the bayou to take a cruise all the wayto downtown on the water.

Ever notice how many professional golfers come fromTexas? Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Ben Crenshaw, Tom Kiteand Lee Elder, to name a few. Fred Couples was the star of the University of Houston golf team. The LPGA isheadquartered here.

It’s no surprise, considering how many superb golf coursescan be found throughout the Houston area, including publiccourses at Memorial and Hermann Parks. As much business



is conducted here out on the links as in boardrooms. Many of the area’s finest subdivisions also include beautiful golf courses,which makes living here even better than just visiting. Schedule your visit to watch the pros at a premier PGA event, such asthe annual Shell Houston Open.

The same is true for tennis. Public courts, tennis clubs and community courts all provide a wide variety of choices. The annualRiver Oaks US Men’s Clay Court Championship is played here every spring. The United States Professional Tennis Associationcalls Houston home, so there is no shortage of expert instructors for perfecting your game.

Despite being an enormous city, nature is never very far away in Houston. With a year-round growing season, something is alwaysblooming here. Migratory birds winter here or stop before continuing on to Central and South America. Year-round, egrets, ibis,herons and brown and white pelicans can be found wherever there’s water in the Houston area. Not far from the city limits, a widevariety of state and national wildlife refuges host more than 200 varieties of birds, as well as coyotes and alligators.

More exotic inhabitants can be found at the 55-acre Houston Zoo in Hermann Park. Visitors to this lushly landscaped zoo canfeed the giraffes or watch the chimpanzees’ antics in the new African forest exhibit. The elephant herd has a newly expandedexhibit where these gentle giants can play and roam freely.

For those who prefer to watch sports, Houston offers year-round enjoyment. The Rockets, the Texans, the Dynamo, the Astros and the Aeros can satisfy whatever sport you prefer. We are also home to the four-time national WNBAchampion Houston Comets and three-time national champion Houston Energy, one of 17 teams nationwide in the Women’sProfessional Football League.


A T T R A C T I O N SWho hasn’t fantasized about being an astronaut and visitingother worlds? Space Center Houston, the official visitors’center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, is the only placeon earth to take an out-of-this-world journey through humanadventures in space. Try your hand at landing the shuttle orretrieving a satellite through interactive computersimulators. Find out how astronauts shower, sleep andprepare meals in space.

Close to the Port of Houston’s cruise terminal is the KemahBoardwalk, which is like a year-round carnival. Rides,themed restaurants, shopping and an aquarium are all a partof the fun here on the shores of Galveston Bay.

The Houston Ship Channel is home to the world’s tallest warmemorial, the San Jacinto Monument. It marks the site of thebattle for Texas independence in 1836. A museum at the baseof the monument is filled with artifacts and a theater for viewingTexas Forever!! The Battle of San Jacinto. This 35-minute videoputs you in the middle of the decisive battle. Markers throughoutthe surrounding battlefield show you where the two sides foughtand the Texans won. A park on the ship channel acrossIndependence Highway from the monument is an excellent placeto watch ships and barges at the Port of Houston.

One of the most beloved experiences in Houston is theWater Wall. Designed by Philip Johnson, this dramatic 64-foot U-shaped fountain is Houston’s most photographedsite. Step through the entry and be surrounded by thousandsof gallons of water rushing down inside and outside thewalls. It is an experience you’ll never forget. Relax and havea picnic in the surrounding three-acre green space shadedby more than 180 live oak trees.

The Children’s Museum of Houston is known as “a playgroundfor your mind.” Rated as the No. 1 children’s museum by Parents magazine, it is bursting with fun innovativeinteractive bilingual learning experiences for children up toage 12. The museum is housed in a whimsical buildingdesigned by Robert Venturi.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the mostheavily attended museums in the country. Located inHermann Park, it features the Wortham IMAX Theatre, BurkeBaker Planetarium and Cockrell Butterfly Center, along withpermanent exhibit halls and traveling exhibitions. From fossils and dinosaurs to gems and geology, the exhibits bringall aspects of the natural world alive. Chemistry and energyexploration are featured due to their importance toHouston’s economy.


C U L T U R EFrom fine arts to cowboy skills, Houston is the place to be.The Museum District near Hermann Park includes many ofHouston’s fine arts destinations. The Museum of Fine ArtsHouston includes works from antiquity to the present.Housed in two buildings, the collection includes 56,000pieces, and a third building is planned.

The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston is a non-collectinginstitution dedicated to presenting the best and mostexciting international, national and regional art of the last40 years. The Houston Center for Contemporary Craft is oneof the few venues in the country dedicated exclusively tocraft at the highest level, highlighting art made of glass,fiber, clay, metal or wood.

The Menil Collection houses the private collection of John andDominique de Menil in two Renzo Piano buildings. The museum’sholdings cover the entire range of art with special emphasis onSurrealism and the work of Cy Twombly. The nearby RothkoChapel by Howard Barnstone features 14 works by Mark Rothko.


Houston has always been a city that embraces new ideas and different ways of looking at things. It’s no surprisethat outsider artists have found acceptance here. The Orange Show Monument is a Houston postman’s ode to hisfavorite fruit. Built single-handedly over more than 20 years, this outdoor monument is constructed of found objects,such as gears, tiles, wagon wheels and statues.

The Beer Can House is another folk art monument made by a retired upholsterer who never threw anything away, including all the beer cans he emptied over 18 years. Some 50,000 beer cans were transformed into the house’s aluminum siding and decorative elements.

Art cars have rolled down Houston’s streets for many years. From unique paint designs to cars transforming intofire-breathing dragons, cars have proven to be interesting canvasses for vehicular artists. A museum celebratestheir design, and an annual parade now draws more than 250 vehicles from 23 states, Canada and Mexico.

Downtown Houston’s Theater District is home to nine performing arts organizations. Houston is one of only fivecities with permanent professional resident companies in all of the major performing arts disciplines: opera, ballet,music and theater. The performing arts venues are all first-class. Free performances from Houston’s varied performingarts scene are held at the Miller Outdoor Theater in Hermann Park.

Agriculture has always played an enormous role in the economy of Texas. For three weeks every spring, the HoustonLivestock Show and Rodeo hosts more than 2 million guests who come for the livestock competitions, food, carnivalrides, live concerts and the world’s largest indoor rodeo.



C U I S I N EAs a city that has long done business throughout the world,Houston satisfies visitors who are accustomed to findingoutstanding international cuisine. With more than 8,000restaurants to choose from and menus reflecting everyregion of the United States and 33 other countries, anypalette can find satisfaction here. Houstonians eat out morethan residents of any other city, so don’t be afraid to ask fora recommendation. Houston’s low cost of living includes therestaurant scene.From trendy bistros to cantinas toChinatown, take your pick. Local specialties include Gulfseafood, Texas barbecue and steaks. Tex-Mex to Brazilian,Korean to Indian, French to Russian and Middle Eastern toEthiopian — every gastronomic desire awaits.

After dinner, take advantage of Houston’s nightlife. There isa lively live music scene with plenty of jazz, blues, countrywestern, rock and acoustic music.

S H O P P I N GShopping could be considered a sport in Houston. Whetherhunting for a one-of-a-kind at a boutique or stocking up atthe nation’s finest department stores, you can fill yourshopping bags easily here. More than a dozen shoppingdistricts are in town with outlet malls in the suburbs.

The Galleria has more than 375 stores, including the firstNeiman Marcus outside of Dallas. People travel to Houstonfrom other countries just to shop there. At the opposite endof the shopping spectrum is Harwin, where all the designer lookalikes can be found. Hunt for antiques in theHistoric Heights and Montrose, or explore Houston’s firstshopping center, the River Oaks Shopping Center, originallybuilt in 1927.

Houston is unlike anywhere you have ever been. New ideas,new people, new styles, new cuisines are always welcomehere. Spend a day; spend a week. You’ll always find plentyto do and see in Houston.


Ships’ registry: Bahamas ©2011 Seabourn

To learn more about the World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line, call 800.929.9595. Visit Seabourn.com.

MEDITERRANEAN ■ NORTHERN EUROPE ■ SOUTHEAST ASIA ■ ARABIA & INDIASOUTH PACIFIC ■ CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA ■ CARIBBEAN ■ WORLD CRUISE

CLAIRVOYANCE IS A JOB REQUIREMENT.

SEABOURN

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paradise blissful days ahead

paradise blissful days ahead

Spacious, Elegant ShipsGracious, Award-Winning ServiceWorldwide ItinerariesExtensive Activities and Enrichment ProgramsSophisticated Five-Star Dining

Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.

revive under the caribbean sun

Spacious, Elegant ShipsGracious, Award-Winning ServiceWorldwide ItinerariesExtensive Activities and Enrichment ProgramsSophisticated Five-Star Dining

Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.

Our great fares make this the ideal time

to head to the Caribbean and leave your

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unique itineraries feature soft white

sand beaches plus award-winning

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NORWEGIANSOWN THEISLANDS.

©2012 NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE, LTD. SHIPS’ REGISTRY: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND BAHAMAMS.

Call 1.888.NCL.CRUISE, visit NCL.COM

or contact your travel professional.

Beautiful beaches. Colorful reefs. The laid-back vibe of the Caribbean.

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2012 FCCA 40th Anniversary Publication