Like many southeast Florida neighbors, Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing. In a state where gaudy tourist zones often stand aloof from workaday downtowns, Fort Lauderdale exhibits consistency at both ends of the 2-mile Las Olas corridor. The sparkling look results from upgrades both downtown and on the beachfront. Matching the downtown's innovative arts district, cafés, and boutiques is an equally inventive beach area, with hotels, cafés, and shops facing an undeveloped shoreline, and new resort-style hotels replacing faded icons of yesteryear. Despite wariness of pretentious overdevelopment, city leaders have allowed a striking number of glittering high-rises. Nostalgic locals and frequent visitors fret over the diminishing vision of sailboats bobbing in waters near downtown; however, Fort Lauderdale remains the yachting capital of the world, and the water toys don’t seem to be going anywhere.

Curaçao is a vibrant island in the southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela, and part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, especially in the capital Willemstad (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the island blends European charm with Caribbean warmth. Curaçao boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving, particularly around its thriving coral reefs. Beyond its natural beauty, the island is culturally diverse, shaped by African, European, and Latin American influences, reflected in its music, cuisine, and the local language, Papiamentu. Unlike many Caribbean destinations, Curaçao lies outside the hurricane belt, offering year-round sunny weather. Visitors also enjoy exploring its desert landscapes, historic forts, and lively street art. With its unique mix of history, culture, and nature, Curaçao offers a distinctive Caribbean experience that is both laid-back and cosmopolitan.

Aruba, known as “One Happy Island,” is a sun-soaked paradise in the southern Caribbean, famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visitors flock to Palm Beach and Eagle Beach for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while adventurous travelers can explore the island’s rugged interior at Arikok National Park, home to unique rock formations, caves, and native wildlife. The capital, Oranjestad, charms with its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, lively markets, and waterfront dining. Aruba’s warm, dry climate and steady trade winds make it perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding year-round. The island also boasts vibrant local culture, with a mix of Caribbean, Dutch, African, and indigenous influences celebrated in music, festivals, and cuisine. Friendly locals, luxury resorts, and a variety of attractions—from snorkeling and scuba diving to casinos and nightlife—ensure every traveler finds something to enjoy. Aruba truly offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

The Half Moon Caye is a natural monument situated at the southeast corner of Lighthouse Reef Atoll. The crescent-shaped caye is a protected marine reserve that was established as a World Heritage Site in 1996. The pristine caye has breath-taking walk-in snorkelling from the beach, idyllic sandy beaches and magnificent wildlife both in the sea and within the littoral forest.

Like many southeast Florida neighbors, Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing. In a state where gaudy tourist zones often stand aloof from workaday downtowns, Fort Lauderdale exhibits consistency at both ends of the 2-mile Las Olas corridor. The sparkling look results from upgrades both downtown and on the beachfront. Matching the downtown's innovative arts district, cafés, and boutiques is an equally inventive beach area, with hotels, cafés, and shops facing an undeveloped shoreline, and new resort-style hotels replacing faded icons of yesteryear. Despite wariness of pretentious overdevelopment, city leaders have allowed a striking number of glittering high-rises. Nostalgic locals and frequent visitors fret over the diminishing vision of sailboats bobbing in waters near downtown; however, Fort Lauderdale remains the yachting capital of the world, and the water toys don’t seem to be going anywhere.