It's stunning, to be sure, but the best is yet to come. The real beauty of Costa de Oro, translation, “Gold Coast”, lay inside the resort towns and seaports that shine like the rarest gems. It is from their generous hospitality and heart-felt warmth, that this region owes much of its rising popularity.

Although, the Mexican Riviera is the fourth most popular cruise destination in the world, during the past two decades, it has steadily gained a reputation as a Caribbean alternative, especially since it has a year round climate, which is convenient for the cruise line industry. When it's hot, it's hot, and when it's not, it's raining.

Carnival, Crystal, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and Holland American have Mexican Riviera cruises and the flexibility they offer can't be beat. Los Angeles is the place where most Mexican Riviera cruises begin. But, an occasional departure from San Diego or San Francisco isn't usual, either. Carnival and Royal Caribbean have popular three-night cruises leaving San Diego or Los Angeles, to Ensenada. If you choose their four-night excursion, they include a stop to Catalina. Since these itineraries are rather short, they're perfect for weekend get-aways, honeymoons or family re-unions. But, a seven-day cruise is the usual standard, which can be extended to 14-days, if you choose. Besides, you don't want to miss those rare gems I spoke of earlier.

You'll find “old world” charm and cobblestone streets in Puerto Vallarta. If surfing, scuba diving and snorkeling are what you crave, you'll find Mazatlan, the largest port of Mexico's pacific coast, is the place. Famous for deep-sea fishing, you might try Ensenada. But, if you're really want a thrill, try Acapulco's main attraction. At Quebrada, throughout the day and early evening, young men perform breathtaking dives from a steep cliff into a small cove of water below. Onlookers gasp, and are held in suspense by this feat, until the diver surfaces, only to climb back up the cliff and do it again.

But, I saved the best for last. At the tip of Baja California a discovery awaits against a backdrop of sea, desert and mountains. Welcome to Cabo San Lucas! The most popular of the resort towns, and a frequent celebrity hang-out. During the day you'll find a variety of water sports, parasailing, legendary marlin fishing and championship golf. Hunting for bargains, should prove quite easy here, too.

But, when the sun goes down in Cabo San Lucas, everything changes, so prepare yourself. This is party paradise, so put on your dancing shoes. You don't need a reason or occasion to join in the fun. But, what you do need is a location. Here you'll find them. There are plenty of nightclubs just waiting to quench your thirst for nightlife, until the wee hours arrive. And when you've had enough, and slowly, as daylight breaks and the waiter comes to your table for the last time, and smiles, you'll know what to order.

Easy to access by, cruise ship or plane, its no wonder this tropical paradise is always a favorite around the globe. Especially, for anyone incarcerated by stress and in need of a spontaneous get-away minus heavy-duty planning or language barrier obstacles. In comparison to other destinations, The Bahamas is a breeze.

All the major cruise lines, Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean pass through its ports and offer a variety of itineraries and deals to suit any budget. A weekend, a week or two weeks, the choice is yours. If you happen to reside in a cooler climate or an urban dweller longing for the sun and sand during the winter months, the Bahamas is only a day away.

In 1492 Christopher Columbus's original discovery of the New World was on the island of San Salvador in the eastern region. After observing that the water around the islands was shallow, he named the region, The Bahamas or Islands of the Shallow Sea. The Islands Of The Bahamas is actually an array of 700 islands and cays over100,000-sq-mile archipelago that extends over 500 miles of clear blue sea.

But, the beauty is that each island is notably distinct, and because of its individuality there's something unique for everyone. If seclusion is what you seek, solitude is what you'll find, for there are islands where telephones are not to be found. By contrast, if nightlife is your pleasure, the casinos, clubs and calypso won't disappoint you. Tennis, golf, horsebackriding, and yes the country club set, all can be found here, too. Alongside sailing, fishing and a wide spectrum of water sports.

And, if that isn't enough. Just touring the islands, Abaco Bahamas, Andros, Bimini Island, Exuma Island, just to name a few, can in itself be quite an exciting adventure. The diversity of the landscapes, at times leaves you speechless; from white and pink sandy beaches, to emerald pine forests and serene colonial villages, that preserve this land's rich historical heritage and fragrant beauty.

But, far more delightful are the people. Bahamians are friendly, humble and kind. Their warmth covers this precious region and you don't need to stand in the sun in order to feel it. It's there every time you shop, eat or just ask for directions.

And the shopping? Deals, bargains, buys, duty-free and anywhere from 25% to 50% savings off stateside goods.

So when the sun goes down, you'll know your trip was worth it. You'll feast on some of the finest fare, wash it down with rum punch, and put your feet up, Bahamian style.

And, with the purist in mind, if you've grown tired of the same old, same old, cruisin climate, overwhelming, additive itinerary, perhaps an Alaskan cruise might be just what you need to balance your perspective and get your travelin spirit back to basics. Inhale deeply, the crisp clean air, and step aboard a Princess cruise ship, the pioneer cruise line of the region. For you're about to enter the premier northern bound excursion to Alaska, Voyage of the Glaciers.

But, first you'll visit a magical gateway to your journey, Vancouver, B.C. Sophisticated, contemporary, a province that can hold its own with the modern-day world, but never looks far from its Victorian era past. With elegant architecture, postmodern structures, diverse dining and shopping, you'll be well prepped for your trip.

Since there are no roads leading to Glacier Bay National Park, there's only one way to experience Alaska's icy fjords. As you stand on the balcony, the prime vantage- point, you'll want a camera or camcorder handy, as you come upon one awesome glacier after another. Next, you'll tour the capital of Alaska, Juneau, for a scenic tour of snow-capped mountains and untouched wilderness. Don't be surprised if a few furry or airborne residents come out to greet you. Mother Nature instilled in them manners, too. So, show some respect. Your final stop will be at College Fjord, pocketed in Prince William Sound, where you'll visit 16 magnificent blue glaciers and see up-close, whales, seals, Orcas, in there natural habitat. This is the real thing, no Sea-World here.

Although you've seen quite a bit of the region already, you're not done yet. Alaska is huge, 586,000 sq. miles and you've only seen the north coast. The southern bound excursion is quite different and not to be missed. At Ketchikan, the salmon capital of the world, you'll see the largest collection of totem poles belonging to the region's native ancestry. Then, you're off to Tracy Arm Fjord, and there you'll find another adventure with the monumental glaciers. But, on this cruise the pioneering spirit will prevail and lead you on a tour of Alaska's past. Follow the gold rush trail, step aboard the Yukon Route Railroad and join in the honky-tonk.

Please note on both trips, north, or south, at each port, there are lots of mini excursions to be experienced, including float-boats, seaplanes, helicopters, you name it. Considering the number of things to do, and the size of the region, it's impossible to devour Alaska, grizzly style, in one gulp. As your cruise line leaves the dock, you'll wave good-bye to this kingdom and all its inhabitants, and something will have changed. You'll look on your world in a new light and promise to return. You'll thank Mother Nature and realize all is well, just as she intended, pure and simple.