Diversity and solitude make Venezuela different than other Caribbean locales farther to the north. Here, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Andes Mountains, visitors have more options to see and explore more things away from the usual beach-hogging crowds.
Vacationers in search of sunny days and exciting nights can find it on Margarita Island, a beach lover's dream just north of the Venezuela coast. Here, windsurfing, sunbathing, gambling and duty-free shopping are just some of the things to do in an attractive, powdery white-sand setting.
But tourists in search of a more rugged adventure can head to the mainland, where the Andes await their exploration. From Ciudad de Merida, visitors can set out on foot, on horseback, or on the world's highest cable car.
La Puerta Historic Site is another mountain hideaway where visitors can come to saddle up and put their everyday worries to rest. And when they're done exploring the area's beautiful rivers, historic churches and colorful flora, they can return to a resort-style setting with all the amenities they've come to expect in an Endless Vacation Rentals resort.
La Scala (Porlamar, Margarita Island). If you're staying on Margarita, the Hilton Margarita & Suites has several attractive dining options available, including this upscale restaurant with ocean view.
La Abadua (Merida). This one-stop shop offers tours in addition to great food, such as trout, fresh salads, soup and desserts.
Ride in the world's highest cable car. The Merida cable car takes you to sometimes snow-capped Pico Bolivar and affords you magnificent panoramic views.
Go horseback riding in and around La Puerta. Saddle up and explore this remote Andes Mountains setting from a rider's eye view.
See the animals at Los Chorros de Milla Zoo. This zoo, in a mountain setting with cascading waterfalls, features lions, bears and several animals native to Venezuela.
Try your luck at the casino (Margarita). There are several casinos on this island just north of the mainland. Hilton Margarita & Suites boasts the largest.
The world's highest waterfall (Canaima National Park). The water at Angel Falls turns to mist before it reaches its base more than 2,600 feet below.
Pampatar. (Margarita Island). From this historic town, founded in the 1530s, you can view castles, Spanish colonial architecture, or the many impressive yachts and boats in the harbor.
Moreno Beach (Margarita Island). The sugary white sands are the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the turquoise Caribbean waters - and the more than 320 sunny days yearly.
Find your pearl in the "Pearl of the Caribbean" (Margarita Island). Several of more than 2,000 vendors sell beautiful, natural pearls throughout this lovely island off the Venezuelan coast.
Mercado Conejeros (Porlamar). Discover duty-free treasures such as hammocks, bags and cigars at this and other markets in this island commercial center.