These tropical paradises offer even more than sun and sand. In Mexico, climb ancient Mayan temples for magnificent views of the jungle. In Old San Juan, stroll the blue cobblestone streets past some of the world's finest Spanish Colonial architecture. Traverse the Panama Canal, an awe-inspiring feat of engineering, and marvel at the ingenious design of Cartagena's impenetrable Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.

No, your eyes - and screen - are fine. Caribbean colors defy the most well-traveled imagination, whether it's Bandaras Bay on Mexico's Pacific Coast reflecting morning light or Port Antonio, Jamaica's spellbinding Blue Lagoon.