Panama Canal: Mexico & Costa Rica from Miami, Florida

Miami’s amazing medley of cultures and flashy urban settings makes it a scene to be seen. Visit the trendy Art Deco district of South Beach, Calle Ocho in Little Havana, the super-upscale neighbourhoods of Coconut Grove and Coral Gables and the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Looking for a cruise from Miami? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises.

The old walled city of Cartagena reflects a turbulent history of conquistadors and pirates. Climb “las murallas” for an unforgettable view of the harbour. Shop for emeralds and leather goods along the cobblestone streets of this enchanting city. Looking for a cruise to Cartagena? Check out our selection of Panama Canal cruises.

Colón is the capital of Colón Province, in Panama. It sits on the Caribbean coast, at the entrance to the Panama Canal. The Canal Expansion Observation Center is a park with viewing platforms over the canal’s Atlantic locks and Gatún Lake. The vast Colón Free Trade Zone offers tax-free shopping. Just west of the city, at the mouth of the Chagres River, Fort San Lorenzo is a well-preserved colonial military structure.

When you book an overland journey on your partial transit of the Panama Canal, you’ll really travel like the jetsetters do as you sail through the Caribbean entrance of this maritime marvel. Once we arrive at Gatun Lake, booked shore excursion guests can disembark for an unforgettable adventure that not only promises beautiful scenery and wonderful photo ops, but an exciting jaunt to Colón, where guests will resume their cruise back aboard the ship. How’s that for excitement? Please note, only booked shore excursion guests can disembark at Gatun Lake. But everyone is welcome to explore at our port-of-call in Colón.

Stroll the seaport town with its multi-coloured cottages and local markets. Head to Carara Tropical Rainforest to explore exotic flora and fauna with a naturalist guide. Or opt for a tour of San Jose – home of the Teatro Nacional and Museo del Oro.

This port city was constructed in 1984 to help connect nearby cities. Travellers often venture out to Antigua, a 90-minute trek to where 17th century colonial facades beckons and Guatemalan history comes alive.

Smaller and more subdued than Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta has retained a good deal of its small village charm along with 26 miles of spectacular beaches along the Banderas Bay. Stroll the cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Or peruse the many local wares for sale at the open-air markets.

Cabo’s signature landmark is El Arco (“The Arch”), a rock formation at the tip of “Land’s End.” The jewel of the Baja Peninsula is famous for its world-class sportfishing, as well as its high-end resorts and exclusive gated communities that line an area simply called “the Corridor.”

Check out the scene at Venice Beach. Spot a celebrity or two on Rodeo Drive. Take a walk down the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Explore the La Brea Tar Pits or Getty Centre. Or spend the day at one of L.A.’s world-famous theme parks.