6 days in Caribbean Itinerary

A Dutch outpost in the Caribbean, sun-drenched Aruba provides a mix of modern seaside resorts and quiet coastal areas ideal for those wishing to escape the crowds. Vacations in Aruba, known affectionately as the "Happy Island," generally combine water-based activities with tours of the untamed backcountry, where you can discover unusual rock formations, historic churches, ostrich farms, and animal sanctuaries. Island capital Oranjestad offers some of the finest shopping and cultural sightseeing in Aruba, with an eco-friendly electric streetcar providing quick access to all of the city's major attractions, including numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Take a trip to Curacao and lounge on its picture-perfect beaches and coves. Although part of the Kingdom of Netherlands, the island's population has developed its own distinct culture, a blend of Afro-Caribbean and Latin American, with a Creole language called Papiamento. Along with its neighbors, Aruba and Bonaire, Curacao sits outside the Caribbean "hurricane zone" and boasts a warm, breezy climate throughout the year. On a Curacao vacation, you can laze, dive, or snorkel on its scenic stretches of sand, visit charming plantations in the interior, or roam the streets of Willemstad, renowned for its distinct architecture.

Known as the location of one of the longest coral reefs in the world, Turks and Caicos offer scenic white-sand beaches, calm waters, and warm, sunny weather. Apart from the upscale resorts in Providenciales, which is known for its award-winning beach, the rest of the scenery remains mostly pristine and uncrowded. On a trip to Turks and Caicos, you can spend days lazing on a deserted beach, go island hopping, and enjoy a range of fun activities, from world-class snorkeling and diving, to hiking, sailing, deep-sea fishing, and bird-watching.