Turks & Caicos

This cluster of 40 islands, eight of which are inhabited, offers a more personal vibe than much of the Caribbean since it is less developed and more affluent. The blue seas immediately offshore are clean, peaceful, and abundant in sea life since many of the islands are bordered by a natural reef. The islands are also very accessible, with direct flights to Providenciales, the major island, from a number of US cities.

From November through May, the weather is bright and dry, with highs of 80 to 84 degrees. Daytime highs in the summer and early fall vary from 85 to 90 degrees, with late summer temperatures occasionally reaching the mid-90s. From June through November, the hurricane season is in full swing.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are excellent options since Turks and Caicos offers some of the greatest underwater scenery in the world. For history aficionados, historic Cockburn Town on Grand Turk is also worth a visit—some think it's where Columbus originally landed in 1492. Other popular activities include whale and bird viewing, as well as sunsets across Grace Bay.