Dream Destination Central America

Adventurous couples with a penchant for the unusual will be richly rewarded by Central America's distinctive character. From Costa Rica to Guatemala, the diversity of the landscape and warmth of the people will surprise even the most jaded traveler. Broad swatches of palm-shaded beaches, fish-filled barrier reefs, dense rainforests and jungle-shrouded Mayan ruins are just a taste of what's in store for lovers encountering this untouched region of the world.

Panama

The big draw to this narrow, southernmost country may be its famous canal, but it has much more to offer history buffs and nature lovers alike. Couples can spend time among the vibrant Spanish architecture in Panama's historic cities, hike through rainforests (urbanites don't even have to leave Panama City to see one; Parque Natural Metropolitano is 10 minutes from downtown) or relax on one of the many idyllic islands off the Caribbean coast. Beach Lovers: Paradise is found in Caribbean's primitive Comarca Kuna Yala region, where a string of islands presents newlyweds with powdery white-sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters and a cultural exchange with the indigenous Kuna. Natural Wonder: Get lost in the wilderness of Vulcan Baru National Park, where you may catch a glimpse of the resplendent quetzal among the bamboo gardens and towering, vine-draped trees. If you make it to the summit, the highest point in Panama, you'll be treated to a view of both the Pacific and Caribbean shores. Local Culture: In Panama City, walk hand-in-hand down the narrow streets of the Old Quarter (Casco Viejo), a charming 19th-century neighborhood where bougainvillea-filled plazas catch the ocean breeze. Pleasure Trip: Part bird-watching, part eco-adventure, part cultural encounter, Ancon Expeditions' trip up the Chagres River in a motorized dugout canoe is an authentic jungle experience that ends in a meeting with the Embera Indians. Dinner for Two: Enjoy 12 courses of fresh fish and in-season produce at Panama City's innovative Manolo Caracol. After Dark: Dance to the beat of live Latin music at Traffic Island in Panama City's happening Amador Causeway.

Costa Rica

Less intrepid travelers will find a haven in this well-developed nation dotted with five-star resorts. And with more than 750 miles of breathtaking shoreline on its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, there's a deserted beach for every newlywed. Inland, the biodiversity of the cool misty cloud forests that blanket Costa Rica is astounding. Beach Lovers: Find your own slice of paradise on Playa Carrillo, a pristine crescent-shaped beach on the Nicoya Peninsula. Calm, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and the dramatic mountainous backdrop is straight off a movie set. Natural Wonder: High in the mountains of northern Costa Rica, Monteverde Biological Cloud Forest Reserve protects a surprising array of wildlife, from jaguars to birds and butterflies. And what better way to get back to nature than through a canopy tour. Zip lines, platforms and suspension bridges offer a thrilling, bird's-eye view of the forest below. Local Culture: Local art, dance and experimental theater are on tap at the National Center of Art and Culture in San Jose, Costa Rica's capital. Pleasure Trip: Head to the Caribbean side to see "Costa Rica's Venice." A maze of jungle canals-home to herons, monkeys, sloths and caimans-snake through Tortuguero Village's quaint wooden shacks. Dinner for Two: Romance is in the air at Nectar, Flor Blanca Resort's gourmet beachside restaurant in Santa Teresa, Guanacaste. After Dark: Discos are a dime a dozen in San Jose, but for a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of an active volcano, book a room with a view of the Arenal Volcano and watch the lava light up the night sky.

Nicaragua

For a true off-the-beaten-path experience, Nicaragua doesn't disappoint. Still untouched by tourism, there are bountiful rainforests, massive freshwater lakes, volcanoes and beautiful beaches that boast some of the best surf in the Pacific. And for a taste of colonial charm, head to Granada, a quaint lakeside city founded in 1524. Beach Lovers: Mix with the locals at Playa Gigante, a quintessential crescent beach where fishermen sell the catch of the day and locals cook it up to order. Natural Wonder: In the middle of Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe Island is home to two volcanoes, petroglyphs and statues from the pre-Columbian era. Local Culture: Plan to arrive in Bluefields in May, when the May Pole Festival is in full swing. This fusion of the European maypole and Afro-Caribbean traditions showcases the Creole culture with competitive dancing, concerts and lively parties. Pleasure Trip: Don't miss the ruins of Leon Viejo, one of the oldest Spanish cities in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, you'll be treated to vistas of Lake Managua and the Momotombo volcano. Dinner for Two: In San Juan del Sur, the view from La Cascada, Piedras y Olas hotel's elegant restaurant, is second only to the fresh seafood and locally grown garden vegetables. After Dark: Practice salsa and reggaeton at Cafe Nuit in the beautiful city of Grenada.

Honduras

Nature-loving honeymooners will feast their eyes and souls in this mountainous region covered with lush jungles and cloud forests. The Mayans once ruled this land, and evidence of their splendid civilization can be seen at the ruins of Copan. When you're ready to dip your toes in the sea, head to the islands of Roatan or Utila off Honduras' sun-drenched Caribbean shore, where some of the world's best diving awaits. Beach Lovers: For the quintessential Caribbean beach, Roatan's West Bay has it all: shimmering turquoise waters, pure white sand and towering palm trees. Snorkelers will find a wealth of colorful marine life on the coral reef at the far end of the beach. Natural Wonder: Swim in the deep crystal-clear pools of the Rio Lindo at the foot of magnificent Pulhapanzak Falls. A cave behind the thick veil of water invites exploration. Local Culture: Spend a day among the Garifuna, who brought their unique blend of African and Carib Indian cultures to the region in the 1700s. In the Garifuna village of Miami on the Bay of Tela, the traditions of the people are alive and well. Pleasure Trip: No trip to Honduras would be complete without a visit to Copan Ruinas. The Mayan ruins themselves-complete with intricately carved stone sculptures, mysterious tunnels and a museum-are awe-inspiring, and the charming village with its adobe buildings and cobblestone streets will make you want to linger. Dinner for Two: While in Copan, dine on fresh tortillas and tamales at Hacienda San Lucas. At sunset, you'll toast your good fortune as you take in the view. After Dark: The heart of the art scene in San Pedro Sula, Klein Bohemia appeals to your creative side with photo exhibitions, poetry readings and live concerts.

El Salvador

If the two of you are eco-adventure, backpacker-types then this is your place. The civil war is long over, and the typical infrastructure that draws mass tourism is slowly falling into place. To your advantage, the locals are friendly and welcoming and the best sites to soak in the natural beauty-rich forests, verdant coffee plantations and isolated surf spots-are rarely crowded. Beach Lovers: There's no shortage of sweet surf breaks in La Libertad, but for a quieter beach with friendly locals and good waves, head to El Zonte, where the high cliffs, black sand and striking sunsets dominate the scene. Natural Wonder: At the border of El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, the mountains of Parque Nacional Montecristo-El Trifinio rise to 7,900 feet and encompass Montecristo Cloud Forest. Here, you'll walk amid massive oak and laurel trees, and if you're lucky, spot rare spider monkeys, pumas and the two-fingered anteater. Local Culture: Join the locals in a rousing futbol (soccer) match at the 80,000-seat Estadio Magico Gonzalez in San Salvador. Pleasure Trip: Soak in the small-town colonial charm of Juayua (pronounced 'why-you-uh') about two hours northwest of San Salvador. On weekends, sample Salvadoran cooking at the food festival, where the region's best restaurateurs set up shop in the town's central park. Dinner for Two: Pupusa-fried corn or rice tortillas filled with beans and cheese-are the mainstay of the Salvadoran diet. Try the popular rice flour variety in the small town of Olocuilta; Dos Hermanos comes highly recommended. After Dark: In San Salvador's Zona Rosa district, dance to live Spanish rock at the two-story Rinconcitos.

Guatemala

Here is the centerpiece of Mayan culture, and its history, monuments and colorful traditions still shine through. The ancient ruins of Tikal may be the best you'll see in Latin America, but there are other reasons to visit: spectacular volcanoes, breathtakingly beautiful Lake Atitlan and the colonial splendor of Antigua. Beach Lovers: Guatemala isn't known for its beaches, but Monterrico does have its charms. The black-sand beach fronts a small funky village where you'll meet backpackers from around the world. At the nearby animal sanctuary, you can take part in the turtle release program. Natural Wonder: With majestic volcanoes at its rim and traditional Mayan villages on its shores, it's not difficult to see why Aldous Huxley called Lake Atitlan the "most beautiful lake in the world." Local Culture: In the colonial city of Antigua, Proyecto Cultural El Sitio is a cultural center that brings together art, music, dance, film and theater under one roof. Pleasure Trip: Explore Tikal, an extensive and beautifully restored Mayan ceremonial city in the midst of a dense tropical jungle. The imposing pyramids, temples and plazas will set your imagination on fire. Dinner for Two: At the boutique hotel Meson Panza Verde in Antigua, delicious food (the Swiss chef incorporates local ingredients into his continental cuisine) is served on a romantic candlelit terrace. After Dark: In the university- and language-school town of Quetzaltenango, find a spot on the picnic-style tables outside Salon Tecun (established in 1935) and share a toast with your new-found friends.

Belize

"Taking the plunge" has an entirely different meaning when you celebrate your nuptials in Belize. With a barrier reef stretching 185 miles along its Caribbean coast, the scuba diving and snorkeling possibilities are endless. And a variety of top-notch resorts on the offshore islands will get you in the water in style. Land lovers can get back to nature in a jungle lodge, tour Mayan ruins and explore an extensive cave system revered by the Maya. Beach Lovers: Grab a hammock and set up camp because Belize is the place for lazy days on the beach. Placencia, a small town in the south, is especially known for its beautiful 16-mile stretch of sand. Natural Wonder: Millions of years ago, underground rivers carved a vast cave system into the limestone of Belize. Once considered a portal to the world of the gods by the Maya, you can now explore them by foot, kayak and inner tube. Local Culture: While in the capital, Belize City, visit the historic House of Culture. Dating back to 1814, the colonial mansion was once the residence of British governors but is now home to historical exhibits, Belizean art and beautiful gardens. Pleasure Trip: You could spend an entire vacation exploring the Mayan ruins of Belize, but if you only visit one, choose Lamanai. The picturesque site located on the New River Lagoon features magnificent pyramids, residential areas, stone carvings and plazas, as well as the ruins of two 16th-century Spanish churches. Dinner for Two: Dine poolside under the stars in the glow of candlelight at Palmilla on Ambergris Caye. The kitchen serves up fresh local ingredients like grilled lobster with chipotle butter in the relaxed yet refined atmosphere. After Dark: Scuba divers should skip the late-night bar scene in Ambergris Caye and opt for a night dive instead. The two of you will never forget the eerie beauty of the reefs and their colorful nocturnal denizens.

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