The first goose I made was a disaster, a tough bird swimming in fat.

NPR: How to Cook Your Goose

Also nearby is its water-park sister, Aquatica, and the worlds-away Discovery Cove, where a limited number of guests enjoy a day of lounging on a private beach, swimming with the dolphins and floating along the lazy river through the bird aviary.

BBC: Lonely Planet's top five day trips from Miami

Excursions include diving, sailing, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, swimming with dolphins, championship golf, windsurfing, eco-tours, a trip to the Contoy Island bird sanctuary, guided nature walks, jungle river trips, fishing and day trips to the ancient Maya ruins in the area.

FORBES: Travel to Mexico's Riviera Maya is Safe and Worth Every Penny