Caribbean

Barbados is the Caribbean at its most refined — a polished, coral island with gorgeous beaches, a rich history, cricket, rum and some of the best food in the region. The west coast (the "Platinum Coast") has the calmest seas and most luxurious hotels.

Jamaica is the Caribbean's most vibrant and soulful island — the birthplace of reggae, Rastafarianism and Bob Marley, with a culture that pulses with energy. Montego Bay and Negril have excellent all-inclusive resorts, while the Blue Mountains and Dunn's River Falls reward exploration.

Cancun and the Riviera Maya stretch along Mexico's Caribbean coast with some of the most extraordinary turquoise water in the world. World-class all-inclusive resorts, ancient Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza and Tulum, and the world's second-largest barrier reef make it unmissable.

The Dominican Republic has some of the Caribbean's best all-inclusive resorts, particularly in Punta Cana — a 50km stretch of white sand and palm trees. The country shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and has a fascinating history, culture and music scene.

St Lucia is arguably the most beautiful island in the Caribbean — a lush volcanic island dominated by the iconic twin peaks of the Pitons, covered in tropical rainforest and ringed by secluded beaches. It's extremely popular for honeymoons and romantic escapes.