4 absolutely beautiful colonial cities that Americans can fly to non-stop this spring

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Are you tired of looking out the Taco Bell window and seeing the American suburbs stretching to the horizon under the gray sky? It’s been a tough winter, and a little getaway to Latin America might be all the pick-me-up you need this coming spring.

Anyway, we get it: enough with the all-inclusives in Punta Cana and the long weekends of debauchery and non-stop drinking in Playa Del Carmen. This time, it’s that Old World charm you’re looking for.

LatAm is filled with picture-perfect towns that were established as early as the 16th century and have barely changed an inch since then. If you need help narrowing down your options, these 4 cultural gems are a good place to start:

Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Located near some of Guatemala’s most impressive volcanic peaks, Antigua Guatemala is a Spanish-built settlement known for its opulent churches, cobblestone streets, and colorful festivals.

In the heart of the historic center, the yellow-washed Church of La Merced is the typical Guatemalan baroque church. Just a stone’s throw away, the Santa Catalina Arch, once used by nuns moving between two opposing convents, is Antigua’s most iconic landmark.

Towering above the main square and its many cafes, Palacio del Ayuntamiento is an average, elegant colonial-era town hall with stone arches. early morning volcano walkeither the Volcán de Pacaya or the Acatanenango volcano, is a must-do.

Direct flights from the US to La Aurora International Airport (GUA)

*La Aurora is Guatemala’s main international airport, a 45-minute drive from Antigua

Quebec City, Canada

Perhaps not the kind of colonial city you have in mind, but Quebec City may not appeal to the average taco-loving, sun-seeking traveler who explores south of the border every chance he gets. On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for French crêpes and romantic architecture, then you’ve come to the right place.

It is without a doubt the most European-looking city in the New Worldwith its still intact French walls, paved with cobblestones Vieux-Québeca historic district protected by UNESCO, and the monumental Château Frontenac. In case you didn’t know, it’s not a castle now, but a hotel owned by Fairmont.

A night’s stay in one of Fairmont’s signature Gold rooms can cost as much as $650, so if you’re on a budget you may want to look for accommodations elsewhere. In other news, Quebec-style galettes cost just $10 in the old town creperies.

Direct flights from USA to Quebec City (YQB)

Puebla, Mexico

One of the most culturally charged cities in all of Mexico, Puebla feels far removed from the usual resort-dominated Caribbean tourist spots. Away with the bachelor parties on the sand, to elegant colonial buildings, the towering churches, and ornate Churrigueresque facades.

The most striking feature in the cityscape is the Puebla Cathedral, with two Renaissance towers rising above a historic building Zocalo. Be sure to take a look at the interior, richly decorated with paintings honoring various saints and polychrome sculptures.

Also called the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, the nearby gold-encrusted Capilla del Rosario is considered by many to be the most beautiful chapel in Mexico, and if you’ve ever wondered what America’s oldest public library looked like… stop by the Hogwarts-coded Biblioteca Palafoxiana and find out.

Direct flights from USA to Puebla (PBC)

Willemstad, Curacao

Northern mannerism meets Caribbean vibrancy, Willemstad is the most unusual entry on this list. Settled by the Dutch, and still under Dutch supervision, it would look like any average city on the canals of the Netherlands, if not for its bold colors, street markets and sweltering heat.

The mansions here are reminiscent of Amsterdam, but are colored in bright, candy-colored shades. And the locals usually do not eat raw herring with onions and pickles, but the fried, meat-filled pastechi pastries are the most popular delicacy at takeaway stalls along the harbour.

Of course, this is still the Caribbean. Even if you are here for the beautiful colonial buildings and the uniqueness Creole culture, you won’t want to miss a visit to one of the island’s countless palm-tree-lined white-sand beaches. Not far from the city, Kenepa offers cCrystal clear seas and a relaxing atmosphere.

Direct flights from the US to Curacao International Airport (CUR)

Are you going to the Caribbean this season?

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Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior head writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60 countries to his name (and is currently weaving stories from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.