This little gem of an island is considered one of the world’s best-kept secrets

Isla de Margarita, “The Pearl of the Caribbean,” is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean, yet it still remains undiscovered by many Americans. Joe Yogerst, one of the primary authors of Secret Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Best Hidden Travel Gems says it offers a huge variety of landscapes and culture in a small area. “It’s all of Latin America on one island. It has rainforests, deserts, fabulous beaches and little Spanish colonial towns.” This mountainous tropical island is located off the north shore of Venezuela. It offers an average of over 330 days a year of sun, gorgeous beaches, and a climate that is neither too hot nor too cold. The state also contains two other smaller islands: Coche and Cubagua. The primary industries are tourism, fishing and construction with a population of about 440,000. Porlamar is the biggest city on this island and is known for its commercial center filled with delicious restaurants, shopping, bars and clubs. However, Pampatar is where the real shopping is. It has the biggest malls on the island, with 250 luxury stores and some lower cost shopping. Here you can also see the Castillo de San Carlos Borromeo, a 17^th century fort that protected the town and harbor from foreign and pirate attacks. The fort’s thick stone walls and bronze cannons still stand today. This island is a beautiful place to spend a vacation so go on out and explore Isla de Margarita and soak up some sun while you’re at it. Info source - USA TODAY / Isla Margarita.comPhoto source - Panoramio.com /  New Age Promotion