Southern Caribbean Cruise/Brilliance of the Seas
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Brilliance of the Seas

Southern Caribbean Cruise - 9 night cruise



Cruise only from €1,071

Price based on lowest available cruise only fare for double occupancy. Subject to change at any time.


Description

Highlights

Gratuities

Dates and Prices

Cabins

Discover new experiences on every shore – and on every deck.

If you love next-level thrills, world-class dining and stellar entertainment, you'll love a holiday getaway onboard Brilliance of the Seas®. This headliner levels up adventure with exciting destinations and favourite onboard activities. Reach new heights and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall 12 metres above deck. Sip craft cocktails at a rotating bar with spectacular views. And catch non-stop entertainment that will make you sing along and laugh out loud.

Cruise ID: 24321

For the ultimate thrill, Brilliance of the Seas features an impressive rock climbing wall. Standing at 200 feet above sea level, kids and adults alike can take advantage of the incredible views. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the wall offers a challenge for all ability levels. Lessons are available and all equipment is provided.

One of the ship's stand out features is the impressive Centrum. Standing seven stories high, it hosts an array of shops, lounges and bars. Passengers can also enjoy the Spectacular aerial performances and shows which take place here.

As of November 11, 2023*, the automatic service gratuity of $18.00 USD per person, per day for guests in non-suites staterooms and Junior Suite, or $20.50 USD per person, per day for guests in Suites, will be applied to each guest's SeaPass account on a daily basis. The gratuity applies to individual guests of all ages and stateroom categories. As a way to reward our crew members for their outstanding service, gratuities are shared among dining, bar & culinary services staff, stateroom attendants and other hotel services teams who work behind the scenes to enhance the cruise experience.

In the unlikely event that a guest onboard being charged the daily automatic gratuity does not receive satisfactory service, the guest may request to modify the daily amount at their discretion by visiting Guest Services onboard and will be able to do so until the morning of their departure. Guests who have pre-paid their gratuity will not see a daily charge during their cruise.

The automatic daily gratuity is based on customary industry standards. Applying this charge automatically helps streamline the recognition process for the crew members who work to enhance your cruise. We hope you find the gratuity to be an accurate reflection of your satisfaction and thank you for your generous recognition of our staff.

A 18% gratuity is automatically added to all beverages and mini bar items.

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all spa & salon purchases.

Guests can pre-pay gratuities by calling (UK) 0344 493 4005 / (Ireland) 1800 555 604 or logging into www.royalcaribbean.co.uk before* their sailing. For guests booked through travel advisors, their advisor may add pre-paid gratuities to the guests' booking prior to sailing*. If gratuities are not prepaid prior to sailing, they will be automatically added to the guests' folios once onboard.

Guests who choose ‘My Time Dining' on all European sailings will have gratuities automatically added to their bill, as they may be served by different members of the team each night. This means tips for your waiting staff – as well as other dining and housekeeping staff – will be included in the quoted price for ‘My Time Dining' on your cruise holiday

Guests who choose our open dining option may opt-in to pre-paid gratuities for dining, or add them to their account at check-out.

*Pre-paid gratuities can be added to an individual reservation at any time outside of 48 hours of the sail date.

Date Time Price * Booking
20 February 2026 20:00 €1,071 Call us to book

* Price based on lowest available cruise only fare for double occupancy. Subject to change at any time.

Cabins on Brilliance of the Seas

Junior Suite
1-4

An incredible intimate suite with a great view.

Size

  • Stateroom: 299 sq. ft. or 27.78 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 66. sq. ft.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Ocean View

Note: Some staterooms have an obstructed view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa bed
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom with tub

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View
1-4

Gaze at the beautiful views from your cosy room.

Size

  • Stateroom: 170 sq. ft. or 15.79 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One single sofa bed or one Pullman bed in staterooms with up to three guests
  • One double sofa bed or two Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Ocean view

Note: Staterooms on deck 2 have a porthole instead of a window

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Interior
1-4

Enjoy your holiday in the perfect space.

Size

  • Stateroom: 170 sq. ft. or 15.79 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One or two pullman beds in staterooms with up to 3 or 4 guests

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • n/a

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Grand Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Enjoy the ultimate suite for a perfect holiday with family and friends.

Size

  • Stateroom: 385 sq. ft. or 35.77 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 106 sq. ft. or 9.85 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Ocean view

Note: Some staterooms have an obstructed view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dressing table and sitting area with sofa
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom with a tub and double sink

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Services
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Stateroom Guarantee
1-4

Our Ocean View staterooms offer a gorgeous view, two twin beds and a private bathroom.

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Spacious Sunset Ocean View Balcony
1-2

Spacious Sunset Balconies offer a larger room with dramatic aft-facing views from your private balcony at the back of the ship.

Size

  • Stateroom: 204 sq. ft. or 18.95 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 41 sq. ft or 3.81 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 2 guests

Views

  • Ocean views

Some staterooms have an obstructed view

Rooms

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • Bath
  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • TV
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Studio Interior
1

More information coming soon.

Facilities

  • One Single Bed
  • Vanity Area
  • Room Service Available
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Spacious Ocean View Balcony
1-5

Immerse yourself in a gorgeous view for a memorable holiday.

Size

  • Stateroom: 204 sq. ft. or 18.95 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 41 sq. ft. or 3.81 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One single sofa bed in staterooms with up to three guests
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • One double sofa bed and one Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 5 guests

Occupancy

  • Up to 5 guests

Views

  • Ocean views

Some staterooms have an obstructed view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Balcony
1-4

Experience a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

Size

  • Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. or 16.63 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 41 sq. ft. or 3.81 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One single sofa bed in staterooms with up to 3 guests
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Ocean view
Some staterooms have an obstructed view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Interior Stateroom Guarantee
1-4

This standard stateroom offers two twin beds, a private bathroom and all the facilities of our standard staterooms.

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Obstructed Ocean View Balcony
1-4

Enjoy the ocean sounds from your private balcony and sitting area.

Size

  • Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. or 16.63 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 41 sq. ft. or 3.81 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One single sofa bed or one Pullman bed in staterooms with up to three guests
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • One double sofa bed and one Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 5 guests

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Obstructed ocean view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Spacious Ocean View
1-2

Have a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

Size

  • Stateroom: 170 sq. ft. or 15.79 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 2 guests

Views

  • Ocean view

Some staterooms have an obstructed view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa

Bathrooms

  • These larger staterooms offer a gorgeous view, two twin beds and a private bathroom.

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ultra Spacious Ocean View
1-6

Have a spectacular view in an immense space with family.

Size

  • Stateroom: 265 sq. ft. or 24.62 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King
  • One double sofa bed
  • One pullman bed and one twin bed or two pullman beds

Occupancy

  • Up to 6 people

Views

  • Ocean view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Separate area with bunk beds

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Connecting Ocean View Balcony
1-2

Experience a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

Size

  • Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. or 16.63 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 41 sq. ft. or 3.81 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 2 guests

Views

  • Ocean View

Rooms

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Owner's Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Enjoy the ultimate suite for a perfect holiday.

Size

  • Stateroom: 532 sq. ft. or 49.42 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 57 sq. ft. or 5.3 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Ocean view

Living Spaces

  • Room with bed and dressing table
  • Living area with double sofa bed
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom with whirlpool tub, double sink and bidet

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Services
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Whirlpool Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony Guarantee
1-4

Vast views of the landscapes, seascapes and skies are yours to enjoy from your private balcony.

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Owner's Suite - 2 Bedroom
1-8

Enjoy the ultimate suite for a perfect holiday with family and friends.

Size

  • Stateroom: 584 sq. ft. or 54.26 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 151 sq. ft. or 14.03 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed.
  • One double sofa bed
  • Two Pullman beds

Occupancy

  • Up to 8 guests

Views

  • Ocean view

Living Spaces

  • Two bedrooms
  • Living area
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • Two bathrooms (master bathroom with tub)

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Services
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Second Bedroom
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Connecting Ocean View
1-2

Experience a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

Size

  • Stateroom: 170 sq. ft. or 15.79 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 2 guests

Views

  • Ocean View

Rooms

  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Royal Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Relish an extraordinary holiday in this luxurious suite.

Size

  • Stateroom: 952 sq. ft. or 88.44 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 172 sq. ft. or 15.98 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed

Occupancy

  • Up to 4 guests

Views

  • Ocean View

Living Spaces

  • Bedroom
  • Private Balcony

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom with tub, double sink and bidet.

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Services
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Grand Suite - 2 Bedroom
1-8

Indulge in a comfortable suite and enjoy the extra perks.

Size

  • Stateroom: 548 sq. ft. or 50.91 sq. m.
  • Balcony: 86 sq. ft. or 7.99 sq. m.

Beds

  • Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed.
  • One double sofa bed
  • Two Pullman beds

Occupancy

  • Up to 8 guests

Views

  • Ocean view

Living Spaces

  • Two bedrooms
  • Living area
  • Private balcony

Bathrooms

  • Two bathrooms (master bathroom with tub)

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Services
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Second Bedroom
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

View Itinerary By Date



Day 1 San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Day 2  Cruising

Day 3 Saint Croix Island, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day 4 Basseterre, Saint Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis

Mountainous St. Kitts, the first English settlement in the Leeward Islands, crams some stunning scenery into its 65 square miles (168 square km). Vast, brilliant green fields of sugarcane (the former cash crop, now slowly being replanted) run to the shore. The fertile, lush island has some fascinating natural and historical attractions: a rain forest replete with waterfalls, thick vines, and secret trails; a central mountain range dominated by the 3,792-foot Mt. Liamuiga, whose crater has long been dormant; and Brimstone Hill, known in the 18th century as the Gibraltar of the West Indies. St. Kitts and Nevis, along with Anguilla, achieved self-government as an associated state of Great Britain in 1967. In 1983 St. Kitts and Nevis became an independent nation. English with a strong West Indian lilt is spoken here. People are friendly but shy; always ask before you take photographs. Also, be sure to wear wraps or shorts over beach attire when you're in public places.

Day 5 Saint George's, Grenada

Nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, cocoa those heady aromas fill the air in Grenada (pronounced gruh-nay-da). Only 21 miles (33½ km) long and 12 miles (19½ km) wide, the Isle of Spice is a tropical gem of lush rain forests, white-sand beaches, secluded coves, exotic flowers, and enough locally grown spices to fill anyone's kitchen cabinet. St. George's is one of the most picturesque capital cities in the Caribbean, St. George's Harbour is one of the most picturesque harbors, and Grenada's Grand Anse Beach is one of the region's finest beaches. The island has friendly, hospitable people and enough good shopping, restaurants, historic sites, and natural wonders to make it a popular port of call. About one-third of Grenada's visitors arrive by cruise ship, and that number continues to grow each year. Grenada's capital is a bustling West Indian city, much of which remains unchanged from colonial days. Narrow streets lined with shops wind up, down, and across steep hills. Brick warehouses cling to the waterfront, and pastel-painted homes rise from the waterfront and disappear into steep green hills. The horseshoe-shaped St. George's Harbour, a submerged volcanic crater, is arguably the prettiest harbor in the Caribbean. Schooners, ferries, and tour boats tie up along the seawall or at the small dinghy dock. The Carenage (pronounced car-a-nahzh), which surrounds the harbor, is the capital's center. Warehouses, shops, and restaurants line the waterfront. The Christ of the Deep statue that sits on the pedestrian plaza at the center of The Carenage was presented to Grenada by Costa Cruise Line in remembrance of its ship, Bianca C, which burned and sank in the harbor in 1961 and is now a favorite dive site. An engineering feat for its time, the 340-foot-long Sendall Tunnel was built in 1895 and named for Walter Sendall, an early governor. The narrow tunnel, used by both pedestrians and vehicles, separates the harbor side of St. George's from the Esplanade on the bay side of town, where you can find the markets (produce, meat, and fish), the Cruise Ship Terminal, the Esplanade Mall, and the public bus station.

Day 6  Cruising

Day 7 Willemstad, Curaçao

Dutch settlers came here in the 1630s, about the same time they sailed through the Verazzano Narrows to Manhattan, bringing with them original red-tile roofs, first used on the trade ships as ballast and later incorporated into the architecture of Willemstad. Much of the original colonial structures remain, but this historic city is constantly reinventing itself and the government monument foundation is always busy restoring buildings in one urban neighborhood or another. The salty air causes what is called "wall cancer" which causes the ancient abodes to continually crumble over time. The city is cut in two by Santa Anna Bay. On one side is Punda (the point)—crammed with shops, restaurants, monuments, and markets and a new museum retracing its colorful history. And on the other side is Otrobanda (literally meaning the "other side"), with lots of narrow, winding streets and alleyways (called "steekjes" in Dutch), full of private homes notable for their picturesque gables and Dutch-influenced designs. In recent years the ongoing regeneration of Otrobanda has been apparent, marked by a surge in development of new hotels, restaurants, and shops; the rebirth, concentrated near the waterfront, was spearheaded by the creation of the elaborate Kura Hulanda complex.There are three ways to cross the bay: by car over the Juliana Bridge; by foot over the Queen Emma pontoon bridge (locally called "The Swinging Old Lady"); or by free ferry, which runs when the pontoon bridge is swung open for passing ships. All the major hotels outside town offer free shuttle service to town once or twice daily. Shuttles coming from the Otrobanda side leave you at Riffort. From here it's a short walk north to the foot of the pontoon bridge. Shuttles coming from the Punda side leave you near the main entrance to Ft. Amsterdam.

Day 8 Oranjestad, Aruba

Aruba's capital is easily explored on foot. Its palm-lined central thoroughfare runs between old and new pastel-painted buildings of typical Dutch design (Spanish influence is also evident in some of the architecture). There are a lot of malls with boutiques and shops—the Renaissance mall carries high-end luxury items and designer fashions. A massive renovation in downtown has given Main Street (a.k.a. Caya G. F. Betico Croes) behind the Renaissance Resort a whole new lease on life: boutique malls, shops, and restaurants have opened next to well-loved family-run businesses. The pedestrian-only walkway and resting areas have unclogged the street, and the new eco-trolley is free and a great way to get around. At this writing, Linear Park was well and will showcase local merchants and artists. There will be activities along a boardwalk that will eventually run all the way to the end of Palm Beach, making it the longest of its kind in the Caribbean.

Day 9  Cruising

Day 10 San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

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