Corn Island: 9 Mar 2009

A haven for 17th-century Dutch, British and French pirates, Corn Island today is a refuge for weary travelers seeking that increasingly rare commodity—peace and solitude. It is still possible to enjoy a solitary wander along a stretch of white sand beach. Actually two islands—Big and Little Corn—both isles attract divers and anglers who happily pursue their hobbies in relative seclusion.

A British Protectorate from 1655 to 1894, when Nicaragua laid claim to the area, the islands were leased to the U.S. from 1914 to 1971. Caribs, Miskito Coast natives and Nicaraguans from the mainland have all found their way here, creating a lively, diverse culture. English and Spanish are both widely spoken.