Chartered in 1839, Galveston Island, located on the upper Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico, was the principal port into the southwest during the 19th century. This coastal town has experienced a recent revitalization, making it one of America’s newest beach resorts. Better than the beautifully restored Victorian architecture of its historic downtown district, is the southern hospitality of Galveston’s residents.

Long before Cancun became a popular destination, Cozumel was well-known as a diving spot and home to the world famous Palancar Reef, which gives divers the opportunity to view thousands of brilliantly colored fish. Non-divers can kick back on a sun-drenched beach, or enjoy any number of seaside activities, such as shopping in colorful marketplaces or dining in an open-air café.

Tucked between Playa del Carmen and Belize, Costa Maya’s brilliant Caribbean seas, silky sand beaches and verdant jungle appear to be unchanged since ruled by the vast Mayan empire more than 1,000 years ago. The only break in the emerald horizon is the occasional beach hut. Secluded jungle settings lend an air of mystery. Wild twining orchids, bougainvillea and stately ceiba trees abound. Don’t miss the 8-foot-high stucco faces at Kohunlich’s Temple of the Masks or the Grand Pyramids at Chacchoben.

This unspoiled island located almost 40 miles off the north coast of Honduras is part of the Bay Islands, which also include Guanaja and Utila. With a warm climate of around 80 degrees, you can lounge on the island’s white sandy beaches or snorkel in crystal blue waters. You may spot some of the wildlife indigenous to the island, such as the Red Lored Parrot, the Lala Monkey or the Jesus Lizard, so named for its ability to “walk on water.”

Chartered in 1839, Galveston Island, located on the upper Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico, was the principal port into the southwest during the 19th century. This coastal town has experienced a recent revitalization, making it one of America’s newest beach resorts. Better than the beautifully restored Victorian architecture of its historic downtown district, is the southern hospitality of Galveston’s residents.