White sails flit across the brilliantly bright horizon, clouds are fleeting and high, the sound of the sea soothing and sultry ? visitors to The British Islands are often hard pressed to rouse themselves from rum drinking and silky sand to snorkel silently past some of the world's best undersea scenery. The islands promise a way of life that is unhurried, sunny and resplendent.

For stiff sea breezes across your sun-warmed face, look no further than the Dominican Republic. For outdoor-enthusiasts and serious relaxation, white sand beaches, the Caribbean's highest peak and brisk winds beckon beachcombers, hikers and kitesurfers on to ever-longer vacations.

Looking out over the stone fortress walls that once protected Old San Juan from ancient enemies, it's easy to imagine the silhouette of creaking ships under full sail at the horizon's edge. Cobbled streets and an age-old ambiance grace the historic part of this very urban city. Easily accessible from the chic shops are wide sandy stretches for the day and sophisticated clubs and restaurants for evening use.

Lush tropical greenery comes alive with bright blossoms on St Croix, scenting the sea-air with the fragrance of flowers. Long stretches of pale sand are the matting on an island framed by sparkling seas. The largest island in the US Virgin Islands, St Croix has much of the same amenities ? plenty of aquamarine water and powdery beaches ? as St Thomas and St John but with fewer visitors and more room to roam, the island may offer more solitude.

Brilliant blue waters lap the sandy edges of St. John, beckoning swimmers, sunbathers and the overworked. Most of the tangled tropical foliage that blankets the island's interior is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, but don't let that fool you into thinking St. John is just one long walk in the park. Whether you're checking out the nightlife and a bright red sunset or exploring the island's hidden sands there is plenty to do on the island to keep you relaxed for a few days, with the British Virgin Islands just a quick trip away.

Green blankets the undulating curves of hilly St. Thomas, the primary port in the US Virgin Islands. Half-moon beaches slide seamlessly into aquamarine waters at the shore's edge before darkening over reefs and the deep-sea, while equally bright colors and sophisticated boutiques line the main street of the capitol, Charlotte Amalie. Shop duty-free and local markets when you've soaked up your sun for the day, or stretch you land legs on a historic walking tour around Government Hill and the buildings around Emancipation Garden.

Green fringed trees follow the elevated contours of Tortola, dropping off at island's edge to meet white powdery beaches and warm surf. Road Town is Tortola's big city, stacked up along hills rimming the harbor. Cruise ships dock just across from the shops and restaurants fronting Road Bay, while charter catamarans and sailboats set off from nearby Village Cay Marina or The Moorings. Sign on for a day on deck with one of the operators here, and then chart your course towards one of the spectacular snorkeling and scuba sites hidden beneath the British Virgin Island's blue water.

Bleached coral protrudes from the sandy blanket padding the ocean floor of Virgin Gorda's famous ?Baths', brightened by darting schools of color and activity. Here, the warm water is home to a rainbow of sea-life. Preoccupied with the world beneath, it is easy to get happily lost in the maze of rocks and pools that are home to this thriving undersea community.