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North + Central America

From the glaciers of Canada to the jungles of Central America, North and Central America offer a remarkable range of landscapes and cultures. Indigenous traditions, colonial history, and modern innovation intersect in places like Oaxaca, Montréal, and Antigua. You might snorkel coral reefs in Belize, sip mezcal in Mexico, or hike through red rock canyons in Utah—wherever the journey may take you.

aerial view of Los Cabos beach with sand and waves

Cabo

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles and resources to inspire—and plan—your next trip to North + Central America.

Featured Articles
Seven Mile Bridge Overseas Highway
Road Trips
7 Coastal U.S. Road Trips With Incredible Views
Skip the views of seemingly endless interstate for an inspiring expanse of blue.
June 17, 2025 01:52 PM
 · 
Chloe Arrojado
A gondola travels at sunset over a field of white wildflowers to link Telluride and Mountain Village. The village and mountains can be seen in the distance.
Outdoor Adventure
There’s More to Telluride Than Trails and Ski Lifts
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Most visitors come to Costa Rica for nature. Twenty-five percent of the country is protected, and most natural areas are easily accessible, though some require going off the beaten path. More than 10 conservation areas are within reach of the country’s capital, San José, and each offers a different nature experience. From the last remaining tropical wet forests in the Mesoamerican Pacific, located in Corcovado National Park, to the stalagmite- and stalactite-filled caves of Tempisque Conservation Area, travelers can see a variety of habitats in one trip. As for accommodations, there are plenty of options for roughing it, but Costa Rica also features upscale resorts where you can retreat and recharge after a day outside.
Where to Travel Next
These Are the 5 Best Countries for Retiring Abroad
June 16, 2025 02:32 PM
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Chloe Arrojado
Lone tent on a grassy field by the ocean
U.S. Beaches
Wake Up to the Waves at These Beautiful Beach Camping Spots in California
June 16, 2025 02:13 AM
 · 
Jessie Beck
Arlington, VA, USA - 4 June 2022: Interior of the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport with Passengers passing and US Flag decorating the Terminal; Copy Space
Air Travel News
Trump’s Birthday and Military Parade Will Disrupt Flights This Weekend—Here’s What Travelers Need to Know
June 11, 2025 01:13 PM
 · 
Kinsey Gidick
Popular Countries
Vancouver Canada totem pole
Canada
May 23, 2018 03:11 PM
View of Yosemite National Park
United States
November 06, 2023 04:05 PM
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Mexico
May 23, 2018 04:10 PM
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Costa Rica
October 04, 2019 04:35 PM
Locations
A turquoise lake surrounded by pine trees, with snow-capped mountains in the background.
Alberta
June 27, 2022 05:28 PM
 · 
Jeff Bartlett
[Newfoundland, Canada - Aug 2020] 'The Battery' a neighbourhood in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, seen from across St. John's Harbour in the summer.
Atlantic Canada
February 19, 2020 01:39 PM
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Renee Suen
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Belize
December 15, 2020 03:05 PM
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Erin De Santiago
How Noma Helped a Pastry Chef Connect With Her Mexican Roots
Cancún and the Riviera Maya
September 18, 2023 06:32 PM
 · 
Michelle da Silva Richmond
San Salvador City / El Salvador - September 15, 2012: An aerial view of the city of San Salvador taken from a salvadoran aerial forces helicopter.
El Salvador
May 17, 2018 11:38 AM
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Julie Schwietert Collazo
GUADALAJARA, JALISCO, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 23, 2017: street of Tlaquepaque
Guadalajara
May 31, 2018 11:31 AM
AFAR-Banff-Guide-floris-siegers-unsplash.jpg
Jasper and Banff National Parks
March 20, 2019 12:46 PM
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Carolina Novotny
resorts line the coastline of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Los Cabos
May 23, 2018 03:08 PM
 · 
Julie Schwietert Collazo
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Merida
May 17, 2018 01:39 PM
Palacio De Bellas Artes
Mexico City
May 23, 2018 03:12 PM
 · 
Julie Schwietert Collazo
Aerial view of Montréal with the Biosphere Environment Museum
Montreal
December 06, 2018 05:20 PM
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Marie-Eve Vallieres
The Nicaraguan Islands You’ll Never Want to Leave
Nicaragua
July 19, 2024 12:48 PM
original-oaxaca-banner-crop-2019.jpg
Oaxaca
May 24, 2018 10:44 AM
Aerial view of Boquete in the Chiriqui province of western Panama.
Panama
May 17, 2018 10:52 AM
Looking out to Volcan Popocatapetl from a hill in the city of Puebla on a clear morning.
Puebla
May 17, 2018 01:38 PM
QUEBEC CITY QUEBEC CANADA 08 23 20: Musee du Fort presents an original and unique sound and light show on the military history of Quebec City & Samuel de Champlain statue as "The Father of New France
Quebec City
May 17, 2018 12:11 PM
 · 
Flash Parker
Image of an old church tower in the background with potted palms on a balcony in the foreground in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
San Miguel de Allende
May 17, 2018 01:37 PM
 · 
Julie Schwietert Collazo
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Toronto
November 16, 2018 12:22 PM
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Natalie Taylor
View of Trunk Bay Beach in U.S. Virgin Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands
May 15, 2024 03:07 PM
 · 
Steve Bennett
Suspension bridge in a park in Vancouver Canada hovering over a lush, green forest.
Vancouver
May 23, 2018 03:14 PM
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Nikki Bayley
Peak to Peak
Whistler
May 17, 2018 11:33 AM
 · 
Crai Bower
Hotels
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Hotels We Love
The 10 Best Hotels in Canada
From castle-like mountain resorts to rain forest retreats, these are the hotels in Canada to book right now.
August 25, 2023 02:59 PM
 · 
Aislyn Greene
The Goodtime Hotel's pool area is flanked by pink cabanas and blue and white umbrellas.
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Miami
When it comes to luxury lodgings, Miami has a hotel for everyone—and these are the very best of them.
December 22, 2023 01:00 PM
 · 
Matt Meltzer
A suite with a view of the ocean at the Fairmont Kea Lani.
Hotels We Love
The 10 Best Hawaiʻi Resorts
Beach enclaves, wellness getaways, green retreats: These are the 10 best resorts in the Hawaiian Islands.
January 30, 2024 01:12 PM
 · 
Jill K. Robinson
One&Only Palmilla has one of Cabo's rare swimmable beaches.
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Resorts in Mexico
Whether you’re looking for an ocean escape, a jungle retreat, or a beach town, you’ll find it here in our expertly curated list of the 15 best Mexico retreats of 2023.
June 12, 2023 07:53 PM
 · 
Mary Holland
The Lil Wrangler kids' club at Brush Creek Ranch is a standout experience for families.
Hotels We Love
These Are the 15 Best Hotels and Resorts for Families in the U.S.
Urban escapes, dude ranches, island retreats, and more: This list of the top 15 family-friendly hotels across the United States is your go-to guide for a multigenerational getaway.
June 10, 2024 12:18 PM
 · 
Devorah Lev-Tov
The scenic campground at Ulum Moab.
Hotels We Love
Visiting a National Park, but Don’t Want to Rough It? Book a Room at One of These Dreamy Hotels
Not into camping? These hotels near national parks offer upscale luxury and comfort in remote, scenic locations.
August 27, 2024 03:27 PM
 · 
Alexandra Cheney
The exterior of Hotel San Fernando has mint green walls and is lined with plants.
Hotels We Love
These Are the 14 Best Hotels in Mexico City
These intimate, design-forward retreats across Mexico City will have you feeling like a local in no time.
August 27, 2024 02:53 PM
 · 
Mary Holland
Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, features overwater bungalows in a tranquil lagoon.
Hotels We Love
5 Unique Honeymoon Destinations (and Their Most Romantic Resorts)
Book one of these romantic retreats in these off-the-beaten-path honeymoon destinations.
October 14, 2024 01:18 PM
 · 
Chris Dong
Three-story building with wraparound white galleries at the John Rutledge House Inn in Charleston
Hotels We Love
18 Hotels in Charleston for a Truly Local Stay
Gilded Age mansions, beachfront resorts, and stylish boutiques offer plenty of places to experience Southern hospitality in Charleston.
September 24, 2024 10:44 AM
 · 
Devorah Lev-Tov
The Montage Laguna Beach sits along the sun-soaked coast of Orange County.
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Luxury Hotels in California
These are the 15 best luxury hotels to book in the Golden State, where experiences range from world-class culinary destinations and beachfront retreats to storied city hideaways.
July 31, 2023 12:00 PM
 · 
Kathryn Romeyn
This bedroom at the Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel has views of the city skyline.
Hotels We Love
These Are the 23 Best Four-Star Hotels in NYC
A dose of luxury, at a gentler price—these are the 23 best four-star hotels in New York City.
October 30, 2024 07:36 PM
 · 
Jennifer Flowers
Orca Island Cabins is composed of eight waterfront tents.
Hotels We Love
These Are The 10 Best Hotels in Alaska
Whether you’re looking to chase the Northern Lights, try your hand at fly fishing, or unwind in a spa surrounded by nature, these are the best places to stay in Alaska for an adventure in the great outdoors.
May 06, 2024 08:16 AM
 · 
Bailey Berg
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Hotels We Love
These Are the Best New Hotels of 2024
AFAR’s picks for the 31 best new hotels in the world.
April 04, 2024 09:00 AM
 · 
Jennifer Flowers
Two Bedroom Villa at Adronis wellness concept
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Destination Spas Around the World
If you’re looking for serenity in 2024, check out these top destination spas.
January 31, 2024 12:53 PM
 · 
Laura Begley Bloom
Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection, is located on a private peninsula in Mexico's Rivera Nayarit.
Hotels We Love
These Are the 10 Best Hotels in Mexico for Families, According to Parents
These hotels and resorts in Mexico deliver superlative hospitality to travelers of all ages.
July 11, 2024 12:10 PM
 · 
Devorah Lev-Tov
The Skyview Hotel is located in the Dark Sky Community of Torrey, Utah. The bedrooms have skylights over the beds that offer views of the night sky.
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Hotels in the World for Stargazing
Sleep under the world’s darkest, clearest skies at one of these 15 hotels in dark sky zones around the world.
June 11, 2024 08:22 AM
 · 
Megan Eaves
The Tree Haus accommodations at the Green O are elevated 23 feet off the ground.
Hotels We Love
The 10 Top Cozy U.S. Hotels to Visit This Winter
With their firepits and comfort-minded interiors, these are the best hideaways where you can embrace the chill this season.
December 29, 2023 12:39 PM
 · 
Nicholas DeRenzo
A hotel lobby with boldly patterned wallpaper, potted trees, mirrors and artwork on the walls, and a patterned area rug
Hotels We Love
These Are the 15 Best Hotel Getaways in New England
New England is brimming with historic grande dames, design-minded boutique hotels, wellness retreats, and glamping getaways.
May 29, 2024 01:29 PM
 · 
Nicholas DeRenzo
Beacon Grand's enclosed, rooftop bar, The Starlite Lounge, echos its heyday as a popular dance hall in the early 1900s.
Hotels We Love
The 10 Best Hotels in San Francisco
These places to stay are as varied and wonderful as the city itself.
June 21, 2024 11:58 AM
 · 
Jessie Beck
The main Trailhead Lodge at Brush Creek Ranch has 19 rooms.
Hotels We Love
For a Wild West Adventure, Head to These 10 Family-Friendly Ranches and Lodges
These are the 10 best ranches and lodges for families in the American West.
April 28, 2023 06:44 PM
 · 
Jennifer Flowers
Ellerman House offers unobstructed views of the ocean from most guest rooms.
Hotels We Love
These Are the 10 Best Hotels for Art Lovers
Hotels can introduce their guests to the creativity that surrounds them—and reveal canvases visitors may not otherwise see.
September 16, 2023 06:00 AM
 · 
Jennifer Flowers
The overwater villas at Six Senses Laamu were built using sustainable local timber.
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Luxury Beach Resorts in the World
The world’s best beach resorts put cultural and environmental preservation front and center.
June 02, 2023 05:16 PM
 · 
Kathryn Romeyn
The Newbury
Hotels We Love
The 10 Best Hotels in Boston
Whether you want to stay in a historic neighborhood, on the water, or in the middle of Red Sox Nation, Boston’s hotel scene delivers.
July 05, 2024 08:13 PM
 · 
Laura Dannen Redman
This house on Necker Island sits on the coast and is surrounded by the sea.
Hotels We Love
Dreaming of a Private Island Getaway? Here’s How to Make It a Reality
At these 14 luxury resorts, it’s possible to have that dream vacation on a private island—without having to own one.
February 25, 2025 03:31 PM
 · 
Laura Begley Bloom
There's nothing like an Ace hotel lobby bar—and now Toronto gets to experience the good times.
Hotels We Love
The 15 Best Hotels in Toronto
In Toronto’s burgeoning hotel scene, you’ll find Canada’s first Ace Hotel, a reimagined St. Regis, and an ultra-cool boutique stay in a private women’s club.
September 14, 2023 07:10 AM
 · 
Michael Kaminer
Ritz Paris
Hotels We Love
The World’s 16 Most Romantic Hotels
These retreats around the world offer a dreamy setting for your next romantic getaway.
February 14, 2025 11:00 AM
 · 
Jennifer Flowers
Chiva-Som, Thailand
Hotels We Love
24 Wellness Resorts and Hotels You Should Book Right Now
These are the 24 hotels we recommend most for wellness.
January 31, 2025 01:00 PM
 · 
Devorah Lev-Tov
The Best Asheville Hotels for a Truly Local Stay
The Best Asheville Hotels for a Truly Local Stay
Hotels We Love
These Are the 12 Best Hotels in Asheville
As Asheville rebuilds after Hurricane Helene, these 12 hotels offer a chance to support the comeback while staying in places that reflect the city’s vibrant energy and resilience.
March 26, 2025 10:00 AM
 · 
Jenn Rice
The Legacy Club at Circa in Las Vegas is located on the 60th floor and has views of the city.
Hotels We Love
These Are the 11 Best Hotels in Las Vegas
Plan your best-ever trip around one of these 11 Vegas hotels and resorts that offer a different side of Sin City.
March 31, 2025 04:12 PM
 · 
Matt Villano
Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. lobby with potted plants, warm lighting, colorful rugs, and elegant furnishings
Hotels We Love
These Are the 14 Best Hotels in Washington, D.C.
History meets modern luxury at these 14 hotels we love—perfect for your next getaway in Washington, D.C.
April 14, 2025 09:00 AM
 · 
Laura Dannen Redman
United States
Gulf_State_Park_Alabama.jpg
Alabama
June 06, 2024 01:13 PM
Alaska, Mountains, Forest, Glacier
Alaska
April 11, 2019 01:42 PM
 · 
Jenna Schnuer
Catalina_State_Park_Arizona.jpg
Arizona Travel Guide
May 23, 2018 03:23 PM
 · 
Joseph Cyr
Water rushing over a rock in the daytime.
Arkansas
June 09, 2024 06:42 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC, USA-27 JULY 2019: Wall Street in downtown is busy on a summer Sunday, with small crowds at cafe tables, while a man pushes a young woman in a wheel chair.
Asheville
April 05, 2021 04:10 PM
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Aspen
May 23, 2018 04:09 PM
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Holly Upper
ATLANTA - AUGUST 5: Children play at Centennial Olympic Park August 5, 2014 in Atlanta, GA. The park commemorates the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Atlanta
May 23, 2018 03:22 PM
 · 
Caroline Eubanks
ATLANTIC CITY NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 2: The boardwalk at sunset on September 2 2014 in Atlantic City New Jersey.
Atlantic City
May 17, 2018 12:12 PM
 · 
Martin Fritz Huber
original-austin-banner-crop-2019.jpg
Austin
May 23, 2018 04:11 PM
 · 
Vania Lanas
Baltimore, Maryland, USA cityscape at Mt. Vernon and the Washington Monument.
Baltimore
May 17, 2018 01:32 PM
 · 
Elizabeth Doerr
Historic Acorn Street on Beacon Hill in dowtown Boston Massachusetts MA.
Boston
May 23, 2018 04:11 PM
 · 
Alison Abbott
Buffalo-NY-Guide-Lede-shutterstock_OpenToursLLC-Shutterstock.jpg
Buffalo
June 28, 2019 11:28 AM
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California
July 20, 2020 08:36 PM
 · 
Jessie Beck
Tall grass and a sand road leading to the beach in Cape Cod
Cape Cod
July 29, 2024 12:09 PM
Charleston-shutterstock_2071518224.jpg
Charleston
August 02, 2021 05:42 PM
 · 
Angela Fleury
Chicago
Chicago
January 17, 2019 05:27 PM
 · 
Kaitlyn Barrett

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