Hi I am Fran Marquez, destination concierge for Celebrity Cruises and I'll be taking you along
with me on an adventure to the tropical paradises of the Western Caribbean, home to some of the world's
most beautiful beaches and destinations like Grand Cayman and Mexico.
The Caribbean continues to be a favorite vacation spot year after year.
Stopping at some of the most stunning destinations in the world,
our sailings offer a little something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a
quick getaway or seven days totally unplugged, we have you covered. Tropical cocktails, locally
caught seafood, and bustling downtowns will make your time in these ports unforgettable.
Join me as we visit a few fantastic destinations on a Western Caribbean cruise. Let's get started.
It's only natural that Florida and the Caribbean feel interconnected. After all, they are both
drenched in sunlight, home to swaying palms and beautiful beaches, and leave a huge impression on any visitor.
Cruise itineraries headed to the Western Caribbean typically depart from ports
in South Florida, like Miami or Fort Lauderdale, before arriving in beautiful Key West, Florida.
Home of the greats like Ernest Hemingway and a favorite of snowbirds around the world,
Key West is one of Florida's friendliest destinations.
Even in December, this tropical paradise stays just warm enough to break out your swimsuit.
Stop at the Southernmost Point of the United States for a photo op in front of the fabled buoy.
Then, visit the Ernest Hemingway House, where you will get a sense of where his acclaimed classics were written.
And be on the lookout for the quirky, six toed cats that roam the property.
No adventure in Key West is complete until you take in the sights and sounds
of Duval Street's music scene and partake in the regional delicacies that embody Margaritaville.
From the diverse locals to the pastel homes during the keys, it's a colorful life in Key West.
Say hello to white sand beaches and some of Mexico's ancient artifacts during your Western Caribbean cruise.
Our stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya provide two different vistas of Mexico.
In Cozumel, hit all the highlights, explore the ruins in Tulum, try a Mexican cooking class, or go diving
and snorkeling along El Cielo or Playa Palancar, two of the best local beaches.
San Miguel has plenty of brightly colored bars, shops, and restaurants to keep you occupied.
Nature lovers should head to Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park for sightings of protected wildlife and preserved coral.
Savor each moment in Costa Maya. You can snorkel, dive, and explore these
waters for days and still find many new things to admire. After all, Costa Maya is home of the
second largest coral reef structure in the world, the Great Maya Reef.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to occupy themselves in this part of Mexico,
whether that's a tour of the ancient Mayan ruins or a hike through the beautiful local jungle.
For history buffs, the ruins of Kohunlich and Chacchoben provide a glimpse at what Mexico was like over a thousand years ago.
Grand Cayman happens to be the largest of the Cayman Islands, which is good news for the sheer
square mileage of beaches you can explore there. The area's Seven Mile Beach is the most famous
but did you know it's actually only 6.3 miles long?
Pull up a beach chair, set up a hammock, or take a dip in the warm turquoise waters.
It's easy to get swept in the endless energy of Georgetown,
the capital city, a bustling port town of Grand Cayman. The waters along Seven Mile Beach are impossibly
clear and the views of beautiful homes and resorts thought the island's skyline.
Another must-try experience in your time in Grand Cayman is swimming with the stingrays
in what the locals call Stingray City, their natural habitat.
You'll learn how to interact with these creatures safely and respectfully in the wild.
Animal lovers will also want to see the Cayman Turtle Center, a conservation effort preserving the habitats of more than just turtles.
Plus, there are plentiful opportunities to swim with green sea turtles.
Thanks for joining me on this tour of the Western Caribbean.
From Key West to Grand Cayman, the beauty of this region is best experienced in person.
Visit celebritycruises.com to book your Western Caribbean getaway today
and do not forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for even more travel inspiration.