Although each island has its own history, traditions, and landscape (which might include volcanic peaks, rocky coasts, endless beaches, salt flats, or cactus-covered scrublands), certain things are universal: the feel of soft sand beneath your feet on a perfect slip of shore. And once you experience the Caribbean that you dreamed of back home—the palm trees, mountains cloaked in rain forest, fishing boats drifting on a multihued sea, the romance—then you'll know the true magic of these islands. No matter how often you're lucky enough to visit, your heart is likely to skip a beat or two each time.