Whether you prefer sights above or below the water, there's plenty to see in the Caribbean

The Caribbean islands are a regular destination for birdwatchers, hikers, cyclists, and history buffs alike. Whether you'd like a full agenda of sightseeing or a leisurely vacation of discovery, you can be sure that unique architecture, vibrant sounds, pleasant aromas and captivating sights will surround you, engaging all of your senses and creating a most memorable experience.

You can taste "coco frio" (cold coconut water), or visit the observatory where the world's largest radio telescope seeks out extraterrestrial life. You'll enjoy breathtaking views almost everywhere you go, whether you explore the sights on your own or opt to take a guided tour. The past and present beautifully meld in the Caribbean: Today, local artisans are carving Seder plates from seashells; a thousand years ago, Arawak Indians carved fertility amulets from seashells.

There are many things to see and do:

• Listen to millions of tiny tree frogs in the El Yunque rain forest of Puerto Rico.

• Stop off in Montego Bay to hear ghost stories and learn about the "White Witch," a mainstay of local folklore.

• Visit an ancient Carib Indian ceremonial ball court.

• Tour the famous Bacardi Rum factory in Puerto Rico.

• Explore a dwarf forest, where the trees only grow to about twelve feet.

Nature

Throughout the Caribbean the wonders of the natural world will amaze and delight you. Mountains, waterfalls, forests, and caves combine with sky and ocean to create spectacular sights and scenic vistas. National Parks and preserves protect exotic wildlife and plant life.

You may get lost in the natural beauty of the island sights you choose to visit, but on Aruba you can't get lost at all. Just look for a "divi-divi" tree. The branches, which are shaped and blown by the trade winds, always point southwest. The Dominican Republic is an ideal stop for hikers and mountain bikers as it has the tallest mountains in the Caribbean; mountainsides are typified by rivers, waterfalls, and pine forests. Guides are required for many of the mountain climbs here, and the cost for the trek will usually include food and mules. You can also enjoy supreme whitewater rafting in the Dominican Republic.

In the Caribbean, opportunities for natural exploration are as endless as the horizon. For a taste of something truly unique, consider these other outdoor jaunts:

• Inhale the exotic scents of an orchid jungle in the Virgin Islands.

• Visit the Casibari and Ayo Rock Formations in Aruba--huge boulders in otherworldly formations.

• Traverse Aruba's natural coral-rock bridge which has been carved out by the ceaseless pounding of Caribbean waves over millions of years.

• Check out the Guadirikiri Caves where you'll find ancient petroglyphs alongside modern graffiti.

• Enjoy Aruba's butterfly farm, home to some fifty different species, and Bubali Bird Sanctuary, the protected home of hundreds of migratory and local birds.

• Tour the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, a mostly mahogany forest where uncaged monkeys frolic along with a variety of tropical birds and other wildlife.

• Take in the Andromeda Botanic Gardens for an unforgettable look at thousands of orchids along with hibiscus, ferns, palms, other tropical plants, and the occasional hummingbird.

History

The Caribbean has a rich and varied history--from pre-colonial settlements by Carib, Arawak and Taino Indians, to European exploration--that is strongly influenced by the African slave culture. On the islands, you can learn about pirates, missionaries and slave revolts through museums and local folklore exhibits.

You can be an observer of living history as you view French provincial architecture in Guadeloupe, Dutch-influenced structures in Aruba, historic churches and cemeteries on the Virgin Islands, and other architectural ruins throughout the region. Or you can play a part in revealing the area's past as you visit an archaeological dig. There are many "firsts" and "oldests" in the Caribbean, such as the oldest street and the first shrine of the New World. Nearly all Caribbean destinations will have palaces and plantations to tickle your fancy.

Cancun's Mayan archaeological sites

The Ruinas Del Rey date from the third to the second century B.C. The ruins have two plazas instead of the traditional one and a pyramid, which is assumed to be a royal burial site. Tulum, another significant ruin, was likely still inhabited when the Spanish arrived in 1518. The Temple of Frescoes is an interesting site where traces of the frescoes can still be seen.

Santo Domingo's post-Columbian historic sites

In the Zona Colonial you'll find Fort San Felipe, the oldest fort in the New World, and the Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor, the oldest cathedral. You can also explore the ruins of the first hospital and first monastery here in the Caribbean. Traveler's tip: Take a horse-drawn carriage through this area for an up-close and unobstructed view of each sight.

San Juan's post-Columbian historical sites

Here you'll find the oldest church, the oldest castle and fortress, and the first executive mansion. Ponce de León, who searched in vain for the Fountain of Youth, is interred here in a vault in the San Juan Cathedral. There is a printing museum in San Juan that houses an important collection of old and rare books--many of the volumes were printed before the year 1500. Traveler's tip: Ride the trolley through this area to add a little fun to your exploration adventure.

The only thing that remains the same throughout the Caribbean is that the sights you see are sure to amaze you, take your breath away, or inspire awe.