Anguilla
Anguilla is located in the British West Indies, 150 miles east of Puerto Rico and nine miles north of St. Martin. Anguilla is the most northerly of the Eastern Caribbean’s Leeward Islands. The name Anguilla means “eel,” an apt description of this long, thin island, which measures 16 miles by three miles. Anguilla has a flat landscape and because annual rainfall levels are low, vegetation consists mainly of small trees and bush.
Anguilla’s historic sites include the Heritage Collection Museum, which displays the island’s most important documents, photographs, letters and other items. The collection spans the island’s history and features articles ranging from Arawak artifacts to present-day political campaign materials. The Old Salt Factory and Pumphouse, located at Sandy Ground, recall an era when salt production was one of Anguilla’s main industries. The historic Manse Building is a three-gabled house built by an Anguillan planter in the early 1900s; the building has been restored and now features two art galleries and a gift shop.
Anguilla offers visitors 12 miles of powdery white-sand beaches plus tranquil, transparent waters ranging from aquamarine to cobalt blue. All 33 beaches are public. Many feature distinctive characteristics including rock and coral formations and picturesque tropical plants.
The island offers many beachside bistros and bars overlooking the long ribbons of sand. Nude and/or topless bathing is not permitted on the island.
Anguilla’s historic sites include the Heritage Collection Museum, which displays the island’s most important documents, photographs, letters and other items. The collection spans the island’s history and features articles ranging from Arawak artifacts to present-day political campaign materials. The Old Salt Factory and Pumphouse, located at Sandy Ground, recall an era when salt production was one of Anguilla’s main industries. The historic Manse Building is a three-gabled house built by an Anguillan planter in the early 1900s; the building has been restored and now features two art galleries and a gift shop.
Anguilla offers visitors 12 miles of powdery white-sand beaches plus tranquil, transparent waters ranging from aquamarine to cobalt blue. All 33 beaches are public. Many feature distinctive characteristics including rock and coral formations and picturesque tropical plants.
The island offers many beachside bistros and bars overlooking the long ribbons of sand. Nude and/or topless bathing is not permitted on the island.
Antigua
Antigua and Barbuda are located in the Eastern Caribbean’s Leeward Islands approximately 17 degrees north of the equator. Antigua is the largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands, and encompassing 108 square miles, measuring 14 miles long and 11 miles wide. The highest point is Boggy Peak (1,319 feet) in the southwestern corner of the island. Barbuda is a flat coral island encompassing only 68 square miles, and lies approximately 30 miles due north of Antigua. The nation also includes the tiny uninhabited island of Redonda, a nature preserve.
St. John's, the capital and largest city, is dominated by the white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral. Built in 1845, the church is now in its third incarnation following earthquakes in 1683 and in 1745 which destroyed the previous structures. Antigua’s cruise ship dock is located in St. John, and the island is a favorite Caribbean port-of-call for cruise ships. St. John also features several hotels and is a lively hub for shopping and dining. English Harbour is Antigua's historic district, located on 15 square miles in Nelson's Dockyard National Park. Developed as a base for the British Navy, the harbor served as the headquarters of the fleet of the Leeward Islands during the turbulent late 18th century.
Antigua claims to have 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Most are inside the protected waters of the island's Caribbean side, and all are open to the public. Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay, located along the island's developed northwestern coast, offer a complete resort beach experience. Most convenient to St. John's are the beaches at Fort James and Deep Bay. Galley Bay attracts surfers in the winter months and joggers during the evening. There are four highly regarded beaches at Hawksbill, one of which is nudist.
St. John's, the capital and largest city, is dominated by the white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral. Built in 1845, the church is now in its third incarnation following earthquakes in 1683 and in 1745 which destroyed the previous structures. Antigua’s cruise ship dock is located in St. John, and the island is a favorite Caribbean port-of-call for cruise ships. St. John also features several hotels and is a lively hub for shopping and dining. English Harbour is Antigua's historic district, located on 15 square miles in Nelson's Dockyard National Park. Developed as a base for the British Navy, the harbor served as the headquarters of the fleet of the Leeward Islands during the turbulent late 18th century.
Antigua claims to have 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Most are inside the protected waters of the island's Caribbean side, and all are open to the public. Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay, located along the island's developed northwestern coast, offer a complete resort beach experience. Most convenient to St. John's are the beaches at Fort James and Deep Bay. Galley Bay attracts surfers in the winter months and joggers during the evening. There are four highly regarded beaches at Hawksbill, one of which is nudist.
Aruba
The smallest of the Dutch Caribbean islands, Aruba is a friendly and relaxing oasis just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. With one of the highest rates for repeat visitors, Aruba offers warm hospitality, perpetual sunshine and white, sandy beaches. Visitors can find tranquility on a secluded stretch of beach, explore the marine life of the Caribbean Sea, or take advantage of the island’s vibrant nightlife at its many casinos, clubs, bars and folk festivals. Whether here on your honeymoon, with family or as a singles getaway, odds are there is an Aruba vacation that fits your style.
Located on the western end of the island, Oranjestad is Aruba’s capital and largest city. Pastel-colored Dutch colonial buildings line the main streets, along with a variety of restaurants, bars and markets. The downtown area and Seaport Village are the primary shopping areas on the island, where tourists can find everything from jewelry and clothing to perfume and electronics. The southern and western coasts of the island are where the majority of tourist activity can be found, as these regions are sheltered from the fierce ocean currants that tend to batter the northern and eastern rocky shores.
This is an island where you can do as little or as much as your want. Explore the abandoned gold mines and native cactus and divi-divi plants that overtake the desert landscape of Arikok National Park. Hit the links with sparkling, cerulean waves at your back while playing a round on the world-class Tierra del Sol golf course. Choose from one of Aruba’s 11 casinos for non-stop gaming and live entertainment. Or do what many visitors to Aruba do -- just relax. This sun-soaked island will tempt any vacationer to do nothing but lay on a hammock overlooking the lulling Caribbean tides.
Located on the western end of the island, Oranjestad is Aruba’s capital and largest city. Pastel-colored Dutch colonial buildings line the main streets, along with a variety of restaurants, bars and markets. The downtown area and Seaport Village are the primary shopping areas on the island, where tourists can find everything from jewelry and clothing to perfume and electronics. The southern and western coasts of the island are where the majority of tourist activity can be found, as these regions are sheltered from the fierce ocean currants that tend to batter the northern and eastern rocky shores.
This is an island where you can do as little or as much as your want. Explore the abandoned gold mines and native cactus and divi-divi plants that overtake the desert landscape of Arikok National Park. Hit the links with sparkling, cerulean waves at your back while playing a round on the world-class Tierra del Sol golf course. Choose from one of Aruba’s 11 casinos for non-stop gaming and live entertainment. Or do what many visitors to Aruba do -- just relax. This sun-soaked island will tempt any vacationer to do nothing but lay on a hammock overlooking the lulling Caribbean tides.
Bahamas
This coral-based island chain is located in the beryl-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, yet all who are familiar with The Bahamas consider it a member of the Caribbean family. In most cases, Bahamas travel means sun-soaked relaxation, duty-free shopping, unmatched ecological beauty and an endless supply of conch fritters. Days full of lounging on sugary-white beaches, dolphin encounters and exploring underwater reefs give way to breezy nights spent at Paradise Island casinos, sipping locally made rum drinks or enjoying Bahamian cuisine at an oceanfront restaurant.
The Bahamas consist of three main islands and a handful of Out Islands. Grand Bahama Island, Paradise Island and New Providence Island attract the most tourists year-round, and offer a range of accommodations from super-exclusive resorts to mid-range hotels. Lucayan National Park, on the island of Grand Bahama, is home to all six of the island’s natural ecosystems, including one of the longest underwater caves in the world. The soul of New Providence Island, Nassau is a shopping and entertainment mecca. The high- and low-end shops vie for your tax-free dollars on Bay Street while hawking jewelry, perfume, liquor and souvenirs. This same energy is poured into the discos, bars and nightclubs that pulse along the streets after dark. Connected to New Providence by bridge, Paradise Island is a much smaller island dominated by the sprawling Las Vegas-style resort, Atlantis.
The Out Islands of The Bahamas, including Abacos, Cat Island, Bimini, Exumas and Harbor Island, are the smaller, quieter islands where many tourists go to seek the tranquil solitude of a genuine island getaway. These islands are not only ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation, but also boast some of the most spectacular and unspoiled gems of nature in the Caribbean.
The Bahamas consist of three main islands and a handful of Out Islands. Grand Bahama Island, Paradise Island and New Providence Island attract the most tourists year-round, and offer a range of accommodations from super-exclusive resorts to mid-range hotels. Lucayan National Park, on the island of Grand Bahama, is home to all six of the island’s natural ecosystems, including one of the longest underwater caves in the world. The soul of New Providence Island, Nassau is a shopping and entertainment mecca. The high- and low-end shops vie for your tax-free dollars on Bay Street while hawking jewelry, perfume, liquor and souvenirs. This same energy is poured into the discos, bars and nightclubs that pulse along the streets after dark. Connected to New Providence by bridge, Paradise Island is a much smaller island dominated by the sprawling Las Vegas-style resort, Atlantis.
The Out Islands of The Bahamas, including Abacos, Cat Island, Bimini, Exumas and Harbor Island, are the smaller, quieter islands where many tourists go to seek the tranquil solitude of a genuine island getaway. These islands are not only ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation, but also boast some of the most spectacular and unspoiled gems of nature in the Caribbean.
Barbados
Barbados is located the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles, in the western North Atlantic Ocean, east of the Windward Islands and the Caribbean Sea, outside of the principal Atlantic hurricane belt. The island nation encompasses 166 square miles, measuring 21 miles long and 14 miles wide. Barbados has a well-developed, mixed economy, and a moderately high standard of living. The island is classified by the World Bank as being in its 66 top global high-income economies. Since the late 1970s and early 1980s, the economy has diversified into manufacturing, tourism, and offshore finance and information services. The island has seen a construction boom, with the development and redevelopment of hotels, office complexes, and homes
Barbados is also one of the Caribbean's leading tourist destinations and is the most developed island in the region. It offers everything from inexpensive guest houses to five-star luxury hotels and resorts, many of which line the island’s abundant beaches. The Boatyard is among the most popular of the many accessible beaches around the island.
Barbados is also one of the Caribbean's leading tourist destinations and is the most developed island in the region. It offers everything from inexpensive guest houses to five-star luxury hotels and resorts, many of which line the island’s abundant beaches. The Boatyard is among the most popular of the many accessible beaches around the island.
Bermuda
Bermuda is a self-governing British overseas territory located in the Atlantic Ocean north of the Caribbean. The island offers a unique blend of colonial history and island heritage, which has given birth to colorful local legends and rich traditions. Bermuda is Britain's oldest colony, and the English influence is apparent in Bermuda’s government, educational and legal institutions. More subtle but no less significant are the island’s Afro-influences--found in Bermuda’s cuisine, dance and music, including calypso and the rhythm of the Gombeys.
Bermuda is divided into nine parishes, with nearly all offering some tourism attractions. St. George's Parish encompasses the area around the historic town of St. George. Hamilton Parish features Crystal Caves and the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo. Smith's Parish is home to the Spittle Pond Nature Preserve and the Devil's Hole Aquarium.
Pembroke Parish includes the capital city of Hamilton, while Paget Parish offers numerous resorts, plus Elbow Beach and the Bermuda Botanical Gardens. Vacationers will find golf, horseback riding and the island's best cliffs in Warwick Parish. Bermuda’s best beaches and the historic Gibbs Hill Lighthouse are found in Southampton Parish, while Sandys Parish features the Royal Naval Dockyard fortress and shops, Gilbert Nature Reserve and several fine beaches.
Bermuda is divided into nine parishes, with nearly all offering some tourism attractions. St. George's Parish encompasses the area around the historic town of St. George. Hamilton Parish features Crystal Caves and the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo. Smith's Parish is home to the Spittle Pond Nature Preserve and the Devil's Hole Aquarium.
Pembroke Parish includes the capital city of Hamilton, while Paget Parish offers numerous resorts, plus Elbow Beach and the Bermuda Botanical Gardens. Vacationers will find golf, horseback riding and the island's best cliffs in Warwick Parish. Bermuda’s best beaches and the historic Gibbs Hill Lighthouse are found in Southampton Parish, while Sandys Parish features the Royal Naval Dockyard fortress and shops, Gilbert Nature Reserve and several fine beaches.
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a self-governing British overseas territory in the Caribbean, east of the U.S. Virgin Islands. By comparison, the BVI are less developed and commercialized than their U.S. counterpart. The BVIs include several of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation destinations, and offers sailing, sport fishing, boating and other sun-and-fun activities. The BVIs also feature many tiny, mostly uninhabited islands and are a great stop on any tour of the Caribbean islands. In all, there are 16 inhabited and more than 43 uninhabited islands falling into two types: relatively flat coral islands and steep volcanic islands.
The primary tourist centers are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke. Tortola is the BVIs’ largest island and the center of its activity. The capital of Road Town features international restaurants and a shopping district. Tortola has a sheltered harbor that draws many boating enthusiasts, and the harbor regularly hosts regattas. Slow-paced Virgin Gorda features attractive beaches and The Baths, a geological marvel of granite boulders, rock pools, grottoes and caves. The crescent-shaped Devil’s Bay Beach is accessible from the Baths via ladders that scale the boulders.
The primary tourist centers are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke. Tortola is the BVIs’ largest island and the center of its activity. The capital of Road Town features international restaurants and a shopping district. Tortola has a sheltered harbor that draws many boating enthusiasts, and the harbor regularly hosts regattas. Slow-paced Virgin Gorda features attractive beaches and The Baths, a geological marvel of granite boulders, rock pools, grottoes and caves. The crescent-shaped Devil’s Bay Beach is accessible from the Baths via ladders that scale the boulders.
The Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are an island group in the Caribbean Sea, located ninety miles south of Cuba. It features outstanding coral reefs and clear waters, making it a favorite destination for divers. The Caymans also feature attractive beaches, many restaurants and tourist-friendly resorts. Grand Cayman is the largest island and home to most of the population and tourism attractions facilities; the other two islands - Little Cayman and Cayman Brac - are called the “sister islands” by locals and are also tourist destinations.
Grand Cayman’s attractions include Seven Mile Beach, considered one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. The Grand Cayman public beach offers changing and restrooms, showers, a playground kids, beach huts, a water sports operator and Calico Jacks Beach Bar for food and drinks. The Spotts beach is great for getting away from the crowds; surrounded by cliffs with white beaches, the beach also features a barrier reef that keeps waters calm year round. Huts and benches are available for use. Located on South Sound, Smith Cove beach offers the convenience of being close to the cruise port to allow for more time enjoying the sun, sand and sea. There are restrooms, picnic benches and showers plus snorkeling opportunities.
Diving is the activity of choice in Cayman Brac. The newest diver attraction is the wreck of the 330-foot Captain Keith Tibbetts, a Russian-built, Cuban naval frigate which sank off Cayman Brac’s northwest coast in September 1996. The wreck has become a subterranean home for a variety of marine life; and there are two other small wrecks off the Brac's coast.
Little Cayman offers exceptional fishing opportunities featuring bonefish, small tarpon and permit. The best fishing is found particularly in Cayman Brac’s South Hole Sound lagoon. Also the 15-acre Tarpon Pond is normally filled with small, but feisty, gamefish.
Grand Cayman’s attractions include Seven Mile Beach, considered one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. The Grand Cayman public beach offers changing and restrooms, showers, a playground kids, beach huts, a water sports operator and Calico Jacks Beach Bar for food and drinks. The Spotts beach is great for getting away from the crowds; surrounded by cliffs with white beaches, the beach also features a barrier reef that keeps waters calm year round. Huts and benches are available for use. Located on South Sound, Smith Cove beach offers the convenience of being close to the cruise port to allow for more time enjoying the sun, sand and sea. There are restrooms, picnic benches and showers plus snorkeling opportunities.
Diving is the activity of choice in Cayman Brac. The newest diver attraction is the wreck of the 330-foot Captain Keith Tibbetts, a Russian-built, Cuban naval frigate which sank off Cayman Brac’s northwest coast in September 1996. The wreck has become a subterranean home for a variety of marine life; and there are two other small wrecks off the Brac's coast.
Little Cayman offers exceptional fishing opportunities featuring bonefish, small tarpon and permit. The best fishing is found particularly in Cayman Brac’s South Hole Sound lagoon. Also the 15-acre Tarpon Pond is normally filled with small, but feisty, gamefish.
Curacao
Curaçao is the largest of the Caribbean’s Netherland Antilles, located among the group known as the “ABC” Islands alongside Aruba and Bonaire. Curaçao, 35 miles north of Venezuela, is outside the Caribbean hurricane belt. Curaçao features colorful rows of Dutch Colonial-style homes with gables and arches, plus Cunucu dwellings, which are similar to Afro-centric huts.
Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding streets, quaint museums, shops, a floating barge vegetable market and sidewalk cafes serving Dutch and Creole cuisine. The city also features Mikve Israel-Emanuel, the oldest continually worshipped-in synagogue in the Americas, reflecting the island’s diverse mix of cultures. Willemstad also features a Postal Museum and Maritime Museum.
Although a flat, rocky and somewhat barren island, Curaçao has many fine, calm-water beaches along its sheltered southwestern coast, with intimate rocky coves overshadowed by massive cliffs and long sandy stretches. Water sports activities are widely available, and attractions for divers and include the double coral reef at Porto Mari. Other attractions include Boca Tabla, a thundering underwater cave; St. Christoffel National Park; Caves of Hato; Sea Aquarium; and Landhuis Chobolobo, where the liqueur “curacao” is made.
Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding streets, quaint museums, shops, a floating barge vegetable market and sidewalk cafes serving Dutch and Creole cuisine. The city also features Mikve Israel-Emanuel, the oldest continually worshipped-in synagogue in the Americas, reflecting the island’s diverse mix of cultures. Willemstad also features a Postal Museum and Maritime Museum.
Although a flat, rocky and somewhat barren island, Curaçao has many fine, calm-water beaches along its sheltered southwestern coast, with intimate rocky coves overshadowed by massive cliffs and long sandy stretches. Water sports activities are widely available, and attractions for divers and include the double coral reef at Porto Mari. Other attractions include Boca Tabla, a thundering underwater cave; St. Christoffel National Park; Caves of Hato; Sea Aquarium; and Landhuis Chobolobo, where the liqueur “curacao” is made.
Dominica
Dominica is unusual among Caribbean destinations, with almost no sandy beaches, and very few large stores or hotels and no major international airport. The island’s 290 square miles are sparsely populated. Nevertheless the country is an ecological wonder, with an abundance of natural beauty. It’s often known as "The Nature Island of the Caribbean" due to its spectacular, lush, and varied flora and fauna, which are protected by an extensive natural park system. The most mountainous island in the Lesser Antilles, Dominica’s volcanic peaks are the cones of lava craters.
The country’s interior is carpeted in lush tropical rainforest and hosts 170 bird species and nearly a dozen 5,000 foot-high volcanic spires puncturing the rainforest’s towering canopy of trees. The interior features several wilderness resorts and spa retreats, including several that serve the local specialty drink, green Sea Moss.
Near Soufriere, south of the capital Roseau, jagged volcanic cliffs sharply plunge 6,000 feet into the ocean. This provides an ideal shelter for numerous whale species that can be spotted year round. Another place of interest is Carib Territory, home to the region’s 3,000 remaining idingenous peoples.
Champagne is a snorkeling spot on the southern coast, where underwater volcanic vents emit continuous streams of bubbles. Glassy, in the southeast of the island, is accessible via a two- to three-hour day hike. The trail winds through farm land and extends into a deep jungle valley, finally approaching the coast while skirting steep cliffs. The trail ends on an old volcanic flow ebbing into the ocean. Small ponds collect some of the water from the nearby crashing waves, creating a habitat for various species of coral and fish.
The country’s interior is carpeted in lush tropical rainforest and hosts 170 bird species and nearly a dozen 5,000 foot-high volcanic spires puncturing the rainforest’s towering canopy of trees. The interior features several wilderness resorts and spa retreats, including several that serve the local specialty drink, green Sea Moss.
Near Soufriere, south of the capital Roseau, jagged volcanic cliffs sharply plunge 6,000 feet into the ocean. This provides an ideal shelter for numerous whale species that can be spotted year round. Another place of interest is Carib Territory, home to the region’s 3,000 remaining idingenous peoples.
Champagne is a snorkeling spot on the southern coast, where underwater volcanic vents emit continuous streams of bubbles. Glassy, in the southeast of the island, is accessible via a two- to three-hour day hike. The trail winds through farm land and extends into a deep jungle valley, finally approaching the coast while skirting steep cliffs. The trail ends on an old volcanic flow ebbing into the ocean. Small ponds collect some of the water from the nearby crashing waves, creating a habitat for various species of coral and fish.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, features 1,000 miles of sugary white-sand beaches shaded by coconut palms. But just a beach destination, as it offers mountainous regions including the Caribbean's highest mountain, Pico Duarte, and other natural wonders including Lake Enriquillo, the Caribbean's largest lake and lowest elevation. Quisqueya, as Dominicans often call their country, also features great biological diversity. Santo Domingo, on the country’s south coast, is the capital and the oldest city in the Americas, founded in 1496. The city’s cobbled streets feature the continent’s first cathedral, hospital, chapel and university. Otherwise, Santo Domingo is a modern city is divided into two parts by the Ozama River. The western side is more developed, than the eastern part, known as "Santo Domingo Oriental." Santo Domingo’s most important tourist destination is the Zona Colonial or Colonial Zone, on the Ozama’s western bank facing the Caribbean Sea.
Punta Cana/Bavaro is located on Santo Domingo’s eastern tip and features 21 miles of white-sand beaches and more than 30 all-inclusive resort properties. The majority of tourist attractions are located on the northern Atlantic coast; resorts within the 40-mile zone incorporate Puerto Plata, Sosua and Cabarete. Playa Dorada and Samana, a breeding ground for humpback whales, are located in the north.
Punta Cana/Bavaro is located on Santo Domingo’s eastern tip and features 21 miles of white-sand beaches and more than 30 all-inclusive resort properties. The majority of tourist attractions are located on the northern Atlantic coast; resorts within the 40-mile zone incorporate Puerto Plata, Sosua and Cabarete. Playa Dorada and Samana, a breeding ground for humpback whales, are located in the north.
Grenada
This is the 'Spice Isle' of the Caribbean; a geographical gem where visitors can sink into the serenity of warm breezes and soft moonlight; feel history in centuries old forts; touch the floor of the rain forest and swim among coral reefs. This is the land of spices, exotic flowers and rare fruits; the three island nation of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique and the gateway to the Grenadines.
Whether you prefer a secluded villa, an all inclusive hotel or the comfort of an intimate inn, Grenada offers a wide array of accommodation options. Grenada's sporting events, dive excursions, cultural celebrations, culinary selections and other festivals and attractions will make your spice experience one to repeat.
When you discover the glory of Grenada, you feel the pure warmth of our people. Sheer relaxation, invigorating adventures or a combination of both will definitely satisfy your Spice Experience!
Whether you prefer a secluded villa, an all inclusive hotel or the comfort of an intimate inn, Grenada offers a wide array of accommodation options. Grenada's sporting events, dive excursions, cultural celebrations, culinary selections and other festivals and attractions will make your spice experience one to repeat.
When you discover the glory of Grenada, you feel the pure warmth of our people. Sheer relaxation, invigorating adventures or a combination of both will definitely satisfy your Spice Experience!
Jamaica
Despite its location almost smack in the center of the Caribbean Sea, the island of Jamaica doesn’t blend in easily with the rest of the Caribbean archipelago. To be sure, it boasts the same addictive sun rays, sugary sands and pampered resort-life as most of the other islands, but it is also set apart historically and culturally.
Today’s visitors will appreciate their trip to Jamaica all the more if they embrace the island’s unique character and the inherent ‘African-ness’ of its population. Aside from its people, Jamaica has much to offer, the curious, thirsty or weary traveller. The Blue Mountains boasts the world’s best coffee, try a cup in the century-old factory at Mavis Bank. There are world-class reefs for diving including those at Runaway Bay and Ocho Rios and great stretches of palm-fringed sand at Treasure Beach or Frenchman’s Cove near Port Antonio. There are offbeat bush-medicine hiking tours, congenial fishing villages, pristine waterfalls, cosmopolitan cities, wetlands harboring endangered crocodiles and manatees, unforgettable sunsets – in short, enough variety to comprise many utterly distinct vacations.
Today’s visitors will appreciate their trip to Jamaica all the more if they embrace the island’s unique character and the inherent ‘African-ness’ of its population. Aside from its people, Jamaica has much to offer, the curious, thirsty or weary traveller. The Blue Mountains boasts the world’s best coffee, try a cup in the century-old factory at Mavis Bank. There are world-class reefs for diving including those at Runaway Bay and Ocho Rios and great stretches of palm-fringed sand at Treasure Beach or Frenchman’s Cove near Port Antonio. There are offbeat bush-medicine hiking tours, congenial fishing villages, pristine waterfalls, cosmopolitan cities, wetlands harboring endangered crocodiles and manatees, unforgettable sunsets – in short, enough variety to comprise many utterly distinct vacations.
Located in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago, Martinique is one of the Windward islands in the Lesser Antilles group. Its eastern coastline borders the Atlantic Ocean while its western coast is flanked by the Caribbean Sea.
Martinique’s eastern coastline borders the Atlantic Ocean while its western coast is flanked by the Caribbean Sea. At its greatest points, Martinique measures 50 miles long and 24 miles wide, delivering 425 square miles of rugged mountainous landscape, dense forests, rivers, waterfalls, rolling hills, and – most importantly – many picturesque bays and coves. Climate and Wildlife
Thanks to an average temperature of 79°, Martinique is the island of the “never-ending summer.” Trade winds from the east and northeast provide a steady breeze that constantly refreshes the air. Due to these tropical climate conditions in Martinique, the island is lush with vegetation: lavish tropical forests, groves, savannas, countless species of trees, fruits, plants and flowers, not to mention the mangrove forests.
Martinique is truly a land of tradition and culture, with a rich history of crafts and literature by renowned authors and famous poets, music and dance, lifestyle and gastronomy. Its multi-ethnic population stems from the cultural mixing of the island’s successive inhabitants: Amerindians, Europeans, Africans, Indians, Levantines and Asians.
Approximately one quarter of the population resides in the administrative capital, Fort de France. Numerous religious denominations are present in Martinique. The official language is French, although everyone speaks Creole, a language that is a blend of Old French, English, and African languages, as well as surviving Amerindian terms.
Martinique’s eastern coastline borders the Atlantic Ocean while its western coast is flanked by the Caribbean Sea. At its greatest points, Martinique measures 50 miles long and 24 miles wide, delivering 425 square miles of rugged mountainous landscape, dense forests, rivers, waterfalls, rolling hills, and – most importantly – many picturesque bays and coves. Climate and Wildlife
Thanks to an average temperature of 79°, Martinique is the island of the “never-ending summer.” Trade winds from the east and northeast provide a steady breeze that constantly refreshes the air. Due to these tropical climate conditions in Martinique, the island is lush with vegetation: lavish tropical forests, groves, savannas, countless species of trees, fruits, plants and flowers, not to mention the mangrove forests.
Martinique is truly a land of tradition and culture, with a rich history of crafts and literature by renowned authors and famous poets, music and dance, lifestyle and gastronomy. Its multi-ethnic population stems from the cultural mixing of the island’s successive inhabitants: Amerindians, Europeans, Africans, Indians, Levantines and Asians.
Approximately one quarter of the population resides in the administrative capital, Fort de France. Numerous religious denominations are present in Martinique. The official language is French, although everyone speaks Creole, a language that is a blend of Old French, English, and African languages, as well as surviving Amerindian terms.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico brings you the best of the Caribbean: over 270 miles of white-sand beaches, balmy temperatures throughout the year (it never gets into the triple digits), tropical flavors and rhythms, and of course, plenty of rum!
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The island lies between the Dominican Republic and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and is part of an archipelago known as the Antilles, which stretches across the Caribbean from Florida to Venezuela.
The Antilles is divided into the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles. Puerto Rico is the easternmost island of the Greater Antilles, which also includes Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
San Juan has one of the best and deepest natural harbors in the Caribbean and Puerto Rico is the largest Caribbean island under U.S. jurisdiction.
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The island lies between the Dominican Republic and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and is part of an archipelago known as the Antilles, which stretches across the Caribbean from Florida to Venezuela.
The Antilles is divided into the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles. Puerto Rico is the easternmost island of the Greater Antilles, which also includes Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
San Juan has one of the best and deepest natural harbors in the Caribbean and Puerto Rico is the largest Caribbean island under U.S. jurisdiction.
St. Kitts & Nevis
Intoxicating natural beauty, sunny skies, warm waters, and white sandy beaches combine to make St. Kitts one of the most seductive spots in the Caribbean. Christopher Columbus first spotted St. Kitts in 1493, when it was populated with native tribes, but the Europeans didn't colonize until the British arrived in 1623. Its strategic location and valuable sugar trade led to an advanced and luxurious development that was among the best in the Colonial Caribbean.
St. Kitts & Nevis offers an island-wide natural beauty that exemplifies the best the Caribbean has to offer. In addition to sandy beaches, imposing mountains and lush rainforest, St. Kitts has many species of tropical birds rarely found elsewhere. St. Kitts also features colonies of gentle, playful monkeys said to have been introduced hundreds of years ago by pirates. The tropical climate is tempered by constant sea breezes, and there’s little seasonal temperature variation, with the rainy season extending from May to November.
Basseterre's historic district features excellent examples of Creole and West Indian architecture. Basseterre is among the oldest Caribbean settlement towns; French Basseterre dates to 1672 and by the end of the 18th century Basseterre had a population of 3,000 and 800 houses. Devastating fires eventually resulted in much of the town being rebuilt, and it has been faithfully restored to indigenous styles, including the government headquarters and the courthouse. A walk through Independence Square, The Circus and Liverpool Row offers excellent examples of public, commercial and residential styles.
St. Kitts & Nevis offers an island-wide natural beauty that exemplifies the best the Caribbean has to offer. In addition to sandy beaches, imposing mountains and lush rainforest, St. Kitts has many species of tropical birds rarely found elsewhere. St. Kitts also features colonies of gentle, playful monkeys said to have been introduced hundreds of years ago by pirates. The tropical climate is tempered by constant sea breezes, and there’s little seasonal temperature variation, with the rainy season extending from May to November.
Basseterre's historic district features excellent examples of Creole and West Indian architecture. Basseterre is among the oldest Caribbean settlement towns; French Basseterre dates to 1672 and by the end of the 18th century Basseterre had a population of 3,000 and 800 houses. Devastating fires eventually resulted in much of the town being rebuilt, and it has been faithfully restored to indigenous styles, including the government headquarters and the courthouse. A walk through Independence Square, The Circus and Liverpool Row offers excellent examples of public, commercial and residential styles.
St. Lucia
Saint Lucia is the perfect destination, whether you're after romance, rejuvenation or adventure. A genuine, natural landscape of gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, miles of unspoiled rainforest and the majestic Piton Mountains, are sure to indulge every taste. Natural waterfalls, breath-taking views, friendly locals and authentic culture impress the most traveled individuals for a holiday with lasting memories.
The perfection of this escape should be shared. Tropical weather, welcoming accommodations, and unexpected adventures await all who travel to this paradise island. Romance can be found at upmarket resorts and intimate inns. Bask together under the Caribbean sun, sail into a champagne sunset, and cuddle beneath the vast starry sky. Discover new romance and re-spark old love over a candlelight dinner on a secluded beach.
For those planning a family getaway, you too can visit Saint Lucia. Enjoy on-site water parks, kids' menus and evening entertainment for everyone. Adventure seekers can surf and sail in the pristine waters. ATV adventures and rainforest zip-lining are family favourites. Relaxation isn't far off either with many resorts offering kids' activities so parents can enjoy a cocktail, a quiet hour together, or a couple's massage. Grab the kids, your partner and your sunscreen; this is a family holiday that everyone will enjoy.
The perfection of this escape should be shared. Tropical weather, welcoming accommodations, and unexpected adventures await all who travel to this paradise island. Romance can be found at upmarket resorts and intimate inns. Bask together under the Caribbean sun, sail into a champagne sunset, and cuddle beneath the vast starry sky. Discover new romance and re-spark old love over a candlelight dinner on a secluded beach.
For those planning a family getaway, you too can visit Saint Lucia. Enjoy on-site water parks, kids' menus and evening entertainment for everyone. Adventure seekers can surf and sail in the pristine waters. ATV adventures and rainforest zip-lining are family favourites. Relaxation isn't far off either with many resorts offering kids' activities so parents can enjoy a cocktail, a quiet hour together, or a couple's massage. Grab the kids, your partner and your sunscreen; this is a family holiday that everyone will enjoy.
St. Martin/St. Maarten
If you appreciate gourmet food, world class duty free shopping, vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, year-round warm climate and a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a Caribbean twist, St Maarten - St Martin is for you!
ST MAARTEN - ST MARTIN provides vacationers the opportunity to enjoy three distinct cultures on one 37 square mile island. There is the delightfulness and soberness of the Dutch on one side, the savoir-faire of the French on the other, and the blending of both with exotic native heritage.
The smallest island in the world ever to have been partitioned between two different nations, St. Martin/St. Maarten has been shared by the French and the Dutch in a spirit of neighborly cooperation and mutual friendship for almost 350 years. The border is almost imperceptible. and people cross back and forth without ever realizing they are entering a new country.
All the same, each side has managed to retain much of the distinctiveness of its own national culture. The French tend to emphasize comfort and elegance. The beaches are secluded, the luxury resorts provide lavish accommodations, and the restaurants offer the finest dining experiences anywhere in the Caribbean. The latest French fashions can be found in many of the shops, and the smell of fresh croissants and pastries mixes everywhere with the spicy aromas of West Indian cooking. Small cafés and charming bistros add a decidedly Gaelic and cosmopolitan flair to the place. On the whole the atmosphere remains very relaxed.
On the other hand, St. Maarten with its busy cruise port and bustling commercial district, has long been an active center for trade and tourism. More developed and at the same time more informal, it is very Dutch in flavor and still has strong ties with fellow compatriots in the other Netherlands Antilles. Between the two different cultures in St. Martin and St. Maarten, vacationers will be able to find just about every kind of activity they might want for a perfect holiday in the sun.
Located midway through the chain of islands in the Caribbean, just as the Antilles begin to curve to the south, St. Martin is sunny and warm year-round, averaging 82 degrees Fahrenheit in summer and just 2 degrees cooler in winter. The island is buffeted by cooling trade winds that keep things temperate all year long. Average annual rainfall comes to about 45 inches, most of which occurs around late summer and early fall.
ST MAARTEN - ST MARTIN provides vacationers the opportunity to enjoy three distinct cultures on one 37 square mile island. There is the delightfulness and soberness of the Dutch on one side, the savoir-faire of the French on the other, and the blending of both with exotic native heritage.
The smallest island in the world ever to have been partitioned between two different nations, St. Martin/St. Maarten has been shared by the French and the Dutch in a spirit of neighborly cooperation and mutual friendship for almost 350 years. The border is almost imperceptible. and people cross back and forth without ever realizing they are entering a new country.
All the same, each side has managed to retain much of the distinctiveness of its own national culture. The French tend to emphasize comfort and elegance. The beaches are secluded, the luxury resorts provide lavish accommodations, and the restaurants offer the finest dining experiences anywhere in the Caribbean. The latest French fashions can be found in many of the shops, and the smell of fresh croissants and pastries mixes everywhere with the spicy aromas of West Indian cooking. Small cafés and charming bistros add a decidedly Gaelic and cosmopolitan flair to the place. On the whole the atmosphere remains very relaxed.
On the other hand, St. Maarten with its busy cruise port and bustling commercial district, has long been an active center for trade and tourism. More developed and at the same time more informal, it is very Dutch in flavor and still has strong ties with fellow compatriots in the other Netherlands Antilles. Between the two different cultures in St. Martin and St. Maarten, vacationers will be able to find just about every kind of activity they might want for a perfect holiday in the sun.
Located midway through the chain of islands in the Caribbean, just as the Antilles begin to curve to the south, St. Martin is sunny and warm year-round, averaging 82 degrees Fahrenheit in summer and just 2 degrees cooler in winter. The island is buffeted by cooling trade winds that keep things temperate all year long. Average annual rainfall comes to about 45 inches, most of which occurs around late summer and early fall.
St. Vincent & The Grenadines
One destination, 32 gorgeous Caribbean islands.
From St. Vincent's lush tropical rainforest full of eco-adventures, to the idyllic beaches, coral reefs and turquoise lagoons of The Grenadines, SVG is a tropical paradise for yachting, scuba diving, enjoying nature, and relaxing in luxurious hideaways. Escape a hectic lifestyle. Live your dreams in St. Vincent & The Grenadines. Get the true 'Vincy' experience!
When you visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the first thing you'll notice is the friendly and welcoming attitude of "Vincy" people. Perhaps it comes from their long tradition of entertaining sea-faring visitors, from the wholesome locally grown food they eat, or from the beautiful surroundings they wake up to each and every day. Whatever the reason, you will feel welcome as you discover all the natural wonders of this multi-island nation.
Hike to see some amazing waterfalls or climb to the top of La Soufiere Volcano. Take time out to play the national pastime, Cricket, take a trip to Black Point Tunnel, meet the boat builders of Bequia or the fishermen of Barrouallie. Enjoy delicious breadfruit and codfish, try the rum, or maybe a few drops of hot pepper sauce.
From St. Vincent's lush tropical rainforest full of eco-adventures, to the idyllic beaches, coral reefs and turquoise lagoons of The Grenadines, SVG is a tropical paradise for yachting, scuba diving, enjoying nature, and relaxing in luxurious hideaways. Escape a hectic lifestyle. Live your dreams in St. Vincent & The Grenadines. Get the true 'Vincy' experience!
When you visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the first thing you'll notice is the friendly and welcoming attitude of "Vincy" people. Perhaps it comes from their long tradition of entertaining sea-faring visitors, from the wholesome locally grown food they eat, or from the beautiful surroundings they wake up to each and every day. Whatever the reason, you will feel welcome as you discover all the natural wonders of this multi-island nation.
Hike to see some amazing waterfalls or climb to the top of La Soufiere Volcano. Take time out to play the national pastime, Cricket, take a trip to Black Point Tunnel, meet the boat builders of Bequia or the fishermen of Barrouallie. Enjoy delicious breadfruit and codfish, try the rum, or maybe a few drops of hot pepper sauce.
Trinidad and Tobago
TRINIDAD
Do you have a sister or brother that’s really lively? That’s Trinidad! When first-time visitors come to the Caribbean, they may expect to find a laid-back paradise of pina coladas and poolsides. Trinidad challenges the status quo; breaks the mold. You can chart your own adventure, and discover the unexpected with a vast choice of festivals, fun events and a host of other adrenaline generating activities.
Port of Spain, our bustling capital city, is filled with an enchanting myriad of art galleries and
restaurants. At the National Museum you can delve into the culture of our country and its
diverse people. If you prefer to be more laid back and take your time discovering our treasures, we also have our share of quiet quality. Once part of the South American mainland, Trinidad, with its boot-like shape measuring 37 miles (80km) by 50 miles (60 km), boasts an ecological and geographical diversity unmatched in the region.
The gorgeous, sandy beaches along our North Coast provide the perfect atmosphere for seclusion, rest and recreation. Dominated by densely forested peaks, the northern interior offers excellent hiking trails framed by canopies of lush, indigenous rain forest, while the low, predominantly agricultural plains of Central Trinidad strike a fascinating contrast. Our East Coast is home to protected wetlands and miles of beach frontage lined by groves of coconut palms, known to locals as the ‘Cocal’.
TOBAGO
The more serene of the siblings, Tobago is home to the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. It really is the last of the unspoiled Caribbean. Once you behold her beauty, you will understand why Tobago was Robinson Crusoe’s isle – and why our European settlers fought over her ownership more than any other Caribbean island. This strip of elongated land, abounds with natural allure – palm lined beaches, lush rain forests and pristine coral reefs teeming with rich marine life. Contrasts of rolling hills against wave-beaten shores create a stunning backdrop for the island’s unequalled beauty. The South (Windward) Coast is washed by the dark green, wave-whipped Atlantic and is lined with vibrant fishing villages, while
the North (Leeward) Coast provides Tobago with some of its finest beaches. In the main, the eastern landscape of the interior rises steeply into tall peaks and rolling hillocks, providing shelter for the oldest protected forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere. A perfect complement to bustling Trinidad, Tobago is a true jewel of the Caribbean Sea, whose sparkle will live in your memory long after you have left her shores.
Do you have a sister or brother that’s really lively? That’s Trinidad! When first-time visitors come to the Caribbean, they may expect to find a laid-back paradise of pina coladas and poolsides. Trinidad challenges the status quo; breaks the mold. You can chart your own adventure, and discover the unexpected with a vast choice of festivals, fun events and a host of other adrenaline generating activities.
Port of Spain, our bustling capital city, is filled with an enchanting myriad of art galleries and
restaurants. At the National Museum you can delve into the culture of our country and its
diverse people. If you prefer to be more laid back and take your time discovering our treasures, we also have our share of quiet quality. Once part of the South American mainland, Trinidad, with its boot-like shape measuring 37 miles (80km) by 50 miles (60 km), boasts an ecological and geographical diversity unmatched in the region.
The gorgeous, sandy beaches along our North Coast provide the perfect atmosphere for seclusion, rest and recreation. Dominated by densely forested peaks, the northern interior offers excellent hiking trails framed by canopies of lush, indigenous rain forest, while the low, predominantly agricultural plains of Central Trinidad strike a fascinating contrast. Our East Coast is home to protected wetlands and miles of beach frontage lined by groves of coconut palms, known to locals as the ‘Cocal’.
TOBAGO
The more serene of the siblings, Tobago is home to the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. It really is the last of the unspoiled Caribbean. Once you behold her beauty, you will understand why Tobago was Robinson Crusoe’s isle – and why our European settlers fought over her ownership more than any other Caribbean island. This strip of elongated land, abounds with natural allure – palm lined beaches, lush rain forests and pristine coral reefs teeming with rich marine life. Contrasts of rolling hills against wave-beaten shores create a stunning backdrop for the island’s unequalled beauty. The South (Windward) Coast is washed by the dark green, wave-whipped Atlantic and is lined with vibrant fishing villages, while
the North (Leeward) Coast provides Tobago with some of its finest beaches. In the main, the eastern landscape of the interior rises steeply into tall peaks and rolling hillocks, providing shelter for the oldest protected forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere. A perfect complement to bustling Trinidad, Tobago is a true jewel of the Caribbean Sea, whose sparkle will live in your memory long after you have left her shores.
Turks & Caicos
World class hotels, spas, and restaurants await, as do our famous stretches of uncrowded beaches and vibrant coral reefs. On land or below the water, you'll relax in the unique serenity, hospitality and beauty of our islands.
Home to the Best Beach in the World, breathtaking hues from inviting waters, and legendary diving, snorkeling and fishing, the Turks & Caicos Islands beckon you to an undiscovered Caribbean.
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, eight of which are inhabited. The islands are located 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, just below the Bahamas chain and just to the east of Cuba and the island of Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti.) Technically, the Turks and Caicos are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea. The islands of the Turks and Caicos are almost as diverse as its people. From the main tourist center of Providenciales to the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos to the historic Capital Island of Grand Turk; each one offers a different experience and a unique character but all offer year round great climate, beaches and underwater activities.
Home to the Best Beach in the World, breathtaking hues from inviting waters, and legendary diving, snorkeling and fishing, the Turks & Caicos Islands beckon you to an undiscovered Caribbean.
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, eight of which are inhabited. The islands are located 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, just below the Bahamas chain and just to the east of Cuba and the island of Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti.) Technically, the Turks and Caicos are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea. The islands of the Turks and Caicos are almost as diverse as its people. From the main tourist center of Providenciales to the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos to the historic Capital Island of Grand Turk; each one offers a different experience and a unique character but all offer year round great climate, beaches and underwater activities.
