The Best of the Caribbean
Updated October 2017
Year round warm weather and relaxing good vibes make the Caribbean one of the most desired holiday destinations on the planet. Each idyllic island has something amazing to offer, and together they emulate the ultimate picture perfect paradise. Powder soft beaches fringe warm waters in shades of jade and turquoise, as tall palm trees sway through a balmy breeze.
You will be spoilt for choice on ways to enjoy yourself here, but unless you plan on actually moving to the Caribbean (one day), sadly it's unlikely that you will have time to see and do it all. Yes the scenery is heavenly and may leave you speechless upon arrival, but there is so much more than meets the eye in this captivating destination. To make sure you experience the best bits, we have collated our list of Caribbean highlights that shouldn't be missed.
The best spot to snorkel – Champagne Reef, Dominica
Champagne Reef is ranked highly on the list of world’s best snorkelling spots, and is considered to be the absolute best within the Caribbean - and it’s easy to see why. The water bubbles, like champagne, and is pleasantly warm becasue of underground volcanic activity. Go with an experienced guide, and you can expect to see parrot fish, hawksbill turtles, and many colourful plants. The reef is just a short transfer from Roseau, Dominica’s buzzing (yet compact) capital city.
The best sunset viewpoint - St Lucia
St Lucia oozes luxury; here you’ll find an array of lavish resorts in a stunningly romantic setting. Pristine beaches meet warm waters, rushing waterfalls flow through thick tropical rainforests, and secret coves allow you to escape entirely. See the sunset create a mesmerising glow over Marigot Bay on the Western Coast, or - even better - sail out to sea to take it all in.
The best rum cocktail – Havana, Cuba
Order any drink in Havana, Cuba’s charmingly time-warped capital city, and you’ll almost always be asked “with rum?” Rum to Cubans is like wine to the French, and you can expect to be somewhat of a cocktail connoisseur by the time you leave. Visit the many rum bars, tour the authentic Havana Club factory, and don’t leave without trying a Hemingway Daiquiri – made for and named after the author himself.
The best place for wildlife – Mona Island, Puerto Rico
Mona Island is an uninhabited nature reserve off Puerto Rico, and fondly referred to as the Caribbean’s own Galapagos. Thriving with wildlife, the exotic island is home to giant iguanas, endangered sea turtles, many migrating birds, and hundreds of fish species. Wild in every aspect, an overnight camping trip here proves to be a real adventure.
Just for fun; of course we couldn’t forget about swimming pigs in the Bahamas! Swing by this tropical paradise for a swimmingly unique experience.
The best adventure – Jamaica
You’re no doubt aware that Jamaica boasts brilliant coastlines, beautiful beaches, and swings to a pulsating reggae beat. But did you know that Jamaica also has much more to be explored? Hiking the luscious Blue Mountains will give you views of the island you’ve never imagined, whilst a raft trip along the Martha Brae River offers something completely different. Caving, cycling, and nature’s own water park add to the adventure hit list. Expect a typically slower pace here, but one for all to enjoy.
The best cay – Coco Cay, Bahamas
A Cay (Caye or Key depending on your whereabouts) is typically smaller than an island but still provides that postcard picture island experience you’ve always imagined. Coco Cay in the Bahamas has it all, white sandy beaches with palm lined shores and surrounds of crystal clear waters. There is an absolute abundance of things to do at Coco Cay, whether you want to relax on the beach or explore land and sea. Kayaking, snorkelling, hiking, or even shopping are just a few of the activities on offer. See Coco Cay with Celebrity Cruises or Royal Caribbean who have had exclusive use of the cay since 1990.
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