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Jamaica embodies a laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. The island's inviting white-sand beaches and sapphire waters are its greatest allure, with ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. You can also sample traditional jerk pork or chicken, explore the lush interior on a four-wheel drive excursion, ride horseback through the surf or float down a river on a bamboo raft.

Passengers docking at Montego Bay can tour Rose Hall, an old plantation home with a turbulent history. In Ocho Rios, you can join an outing to one of Jamaica's most celebrated attractions, Dunn's River Falls, a 600-foot waterfall that cascades down limestone steps.

• Jamaica is featured on Western Caribbean cruises, which take place year-round. Jamaica ports also are included on some Panama Canal itineraries, which are offered from September through April.

• Cruises to Jamaica and elsewhere in the Caribbean are particularly kid-friendly, making them an ideal option for family getaways. Most ships have children's programs, youth counselors and children's activity centers.