Las Vegas Review-Journal

It might seem that, to find a relatively untouched tropical paradise, you'd need to travel halfway around the world. However, one of the best-kept secrets in travel - Panama - is close at hand and has everything you could want in a warm-weather getaway.

Some cities are more than just a place to live - they shape the world and have for centuries. London is one of those exceptional cities.

With spring in the air, sports fans everywhere are turning their thoughts to the 2013 baseball season. Spring training already has excitement levels pumped, and soon the call of "play ball" will echo through the air.

Planning an international trip can be exciting and overwhelming, all at the same time. Deciding which cities or countries to visit, where to stay, what to see and how to get from place to place adds up to a lot of research and planning.

When planning a vacation, you have two primary choices: exploring places you are familiar with or exploring somewhere new. While there's comfort in the former, the latter choice holds the promise of new discoveries, unique experiences and the most enduring memories. For those who want to explore off the beaten track, there's perhaps no more dynamic and magical destination in the world than India. Its immense size, centuries of history and broad spectrum of cultures make it an unparalleled choice for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind journey. With the help of an India tour, you can focus on enjoying all it has to offer.

There are some destinations that blend spellbinding scenery, a sense of exotic remoteness and a touch of ancient mystery, creating an irresistible appeal to travelers. Perhaps the best example of that unique combination is Machu Picchu. The mist-shrouded "Lost City of the Incas," hidden in the Andean mountain jungle, tops countless travelers' wish lists, but the carefully controlled site can be tricky to reach. Perhaps the best way to ensure that you get to see Machu Picchu is through Peru tours that cover the technicalities of getting there, while also giving you opportunities to see more of the country.

They say that travel is about the journey, not the destination. While there's plenty of room to argue that destinations really do matter, there's no disputing that going on a journey is one of the most enriching experiences you can have. When it comes to travel in America, perhaps the greatest journeys to be taken are steamboat cruises on the Mississippi. Riding the current of this remarkable artery through America's heartland will show you an unfolding story that covers centuries of history, much of which has played a central role in making the country what it is today.

Going on vacation can be stressful too: knowing where to go, what to see and how to get there. More often than not, the joy of actually going on vacation takes a backseat to the hassles encountered along the way. That's where a tour comes in.

This spring, new facilities open for visitors to the 2,900-acre Clark County Wetlands Park on the eastern edge of the Las Vegas Valley.

It's hard to imagine a more perfect travel destination than the Mediterranean - from the sea to the land, natural and cultural treasures enrich and inspire. Rugged cliffs, deep blue seascapes and historic cities hugging the coast all contribute to create a place that is truly unique in the world. There are a number of ways to travel the region, but perhaps the only way to get the full experience is to take a well-planned Mediterranean cruise.

It's the trip that tops most travelers' lifetime dream lists: an African safari. The words themselves evoke a magic that is unmatched, and conjure visions of lions stalking across the savannah and wildebeest running in thundering, vast herds. It's not uncommon to think that those amazing sights will remain a distant fantasy, but there's no need to give up on the dream. In fact, it's easier than ever to make it a reality.

America's Southwest captures the minds of travelers from around the globe, and Americans themselves are no exception. Its spectacular landscapes, fascinating history and unique culture make it a legendary getaway. For visitors, deciding what to see can be a bit of a challenge - there are just so many choices. With a little expert guidance, though, your Arizona vacation will include a variety of travel experiences from the national parks to authentic western towns.

If watching all the London-centered festivities of 2012, from the Queen's Jubilee to the opening ceremonies, whetted your appetite for a trip to England's capital, rest assured that there's never been a better time to embark on a London tour. London is a city for the ages, and you'll find layer upon layer of fascinating history, often right alongside the amenities of a vibrant, modern metropolis.

Even when compared to the many astounding sights the natural world has to offer, Niagara Falls stands out for its spectacular power and beauty. In fact, it's counted among the seven natural wonders of the world, along with Mount Everest, the Grand Canyon and more. For travelers, a visit is, quite simply, an essential part of any globetrotter's checklist. While their fame might mean taking them for granted, a Niagara Falls vacation will show you the wonder behind their notoriety.

While it's fun to explore the distant corners of the world, American travelers shouldn't miss the opportunity to experience the richly diverse and historic attractions of their own home country. A Washington D.C tour, for example, is an essential educational and inspirational experience. Exploring the nation's capital and the surrounding area makes for a memorable trip sure to stir feelings of pride.

Italy has a spellbinding effect on travelers; they fall in love quickly and deeply with the landscapes, the food and the culture. While that can happen virtually anywhere you go in Italy, the ultimate experience comes with traveling around the country, taking in its surprising diversity and depth. If you're eager to travel Italy, there are five key places that should be on your itinerary.

The Italian region of Tuscany has taken on legendary status for travelers - it's an absolute must on everyone's list, whether they love wine, food, history, art or the simple beauty of nature. But with so many attractions, it's easy to end up feeling like you're rushing - and still not getting a complete experience. However, savvy travelers know that there are strategies to ensure that you're maximizing your time while minimizing your stress. One of the best of those strategies is to go on an expertly planned Tuscany tour.