from West Palm Beach (Miami) to Rio de Janeiro

Caribbean temperament and a dash of savoir vivre welcome you to the French overseas department of Martinique. The programme of activities offers a hike* through the rainforest or an all-terrain vehicle tour* to the green heart of the island.

On the south-western coast of Grenada lies St. George’s, one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the Caribbean. The natural harbour of Carenage and the colourful colonial houses give the Grenadian capital its typical appeal. The pretty lanes and historic buildings of the old town invite you to explore, while small restaurants and shops around the harbour and along Melville Street and Lagoon Road form the heart of the tourist centre. A walk up the hill above the city to the former French Fort Frederick offers a magnificent panoramic view of the entire bay.

Scarborough, the capital of Tobago, is the gateway to exploring the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, which is known for its tropical landscapes and cultural diversity. While the larger island of Trinidad attracts visitors with white sandy beaches and fascinating animals such as leatherback turtles and scarlet ibises, Tobago offers a captivating array of lush rainforest and mountainous terrain. The Caribbean rhythm of calypso, whose roots go back several centuries, can be felt all over the island and makes the way of life in Trinidad and Tobago so special.

Ile Royale, the largest and highest of the Iles du Salut, which also includes Ile du Diable and Ile Saint Joseph, lies off the coast of Kourou in French Guiana. This group of islands was once a notorious penal colony that was used until 1951 and became world famous thanks to the novel and film “Papillon”. Today, Ile Royale attracts many visitors who want to explore the impressive ruins and observe the fascinating fauna. Squirrel monkeys and colourful macaws populate the island, creating lively moments amidst the historic backdrop. Ile Royale is a place that combines history and nature in a special way, offering an impressive journey into the past.

An extensive network of waterways that combines modern high-rise buildings and historical monuments: enchanting Recife is considered the “Venice of Brazil”. The vibrant city has a rich cultural scene with lively restaurants, nightclubs and art exhibitions – it gets particularly spirited during Carnival, when Maracatu groups and exuberant celebrations take over the streets. Traces of the Portuguese colonial era can still be seen today in buildings such as the Monastery Convent and Church of Santo Antonio , which forms an exciting contrast to the modernity of the city.

Salvador is vibrant and colourful. The former capital of Brazil, located on the Bay of All Saints, offers a unique cultural mix that is strongly influenced by African influences and the mystical-spiritual religion of Umbanda. The historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features impressive baroque buildings such as the magnificent cathedral, whose interior is richly decorated with marble. But El Salvador also tempts visitors to take some time out on its beautiful beaches and enjoy relaxing walks in the botanical gardens and zoo.

With around 220 days of sunshine a year and its picturesque beaches, Armacao dos Buzios – or simply Buzios – truly deserves to be called “pearl of the Costa do Sol”. Once a sleepy fishing village, the place became famous when Brigitte Bardot discovered it in 1964 and raved about a “sea like sky-coloured champagne”. Buzios is often referred to as the Brazilian St-Tropez, but even in the high season it exudes a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. The charming fishermen’s houses, now boutiques and restaurants painted blue and white, blend harmoniously into the landscape. Around the main town, more than 20 beaches, some of the most beautiful in Brazil, invite you to relax and unwind.

The beauty of Rio de Janeiro is as diverse as it is fascinating. From the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain and the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer on Mount Corcovado to the colourful samba dances and carnival celebrations – Rio is inspiring simply everywhere. In the midst of the tropical metropolis, there are over 50 museums that give visitors interesting insights into Brazil’s rich culture and history. Rio is a samba stronghold even outside of the carnival: the intoxicating rhythms of the country, a symbol of the Brazilian love of life, can be heard in numerous clubs and bars.