region

Campeche

Submitted by shenju4rcyc on

The capital of the state that shares its name, Campeche is home to military architecture, cobblestone streets, well-preserved mansions and a walled city center. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the fortified town is a model of Spanish colonial city planning. A stroll on Calle 59 leads from city gates Puerta de Tierra, or “door to the land,” to Puerta del Mar, or “door to the sea.” Nearby San Miguel Fort has an excellent archaeological museum of Mayan artifacts, while San Jose Fort features displays of armaments.

Lanzarote

Submitted by nicholas.young on

The bustling capital of Arrecife is named for the black reefs behind which boats once hid from pirates. The dark, barren hills and vast craters of the island’s spectacular volcanic terrain can be explored by bus or 4x4, on foot or by camel, and nearby Timanfaya National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island is also renowned for its stellar beaches. Manmade attractions include Castillo de San Gabriel, on a tiny islet facing town, and Castillo de San Jose, home to the contemporary art museum.

Belize City

Submitted by nicholas.young on

The secluded beaches, untamed forests and jungle rivers of Belize offer the perfect fusion of Caribbean bliss, natural wonders and fascinating ancient history. While Belize City has a nice museum and cathedral, most attractions lie in the surrounding countryside and waters. The offshore islands of Ambergis Caye and Caye Caulkner boast not only pristine beaches but also access to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for snorkelers and divers.