St Lucia
Every Friday night in Gros Islet town situated in the north of the island the local’s host a Friday night ‘jump up’. A night fuelled with music dancing and scrumptious barbecued food.
Towards the North east of the island you will find a quaint fishing village Anse La Raye. Each and every Friday night they host ‘Splash down’. Local fisherman during the day hunt for fish, even going as far as the neighbouring islands to bring back the most delightful assortment. During the evening the fish is cooked in a variety of ways and served to the adoring public. Watch the interview I conducted with a local here
The Diamond Botanical Gardens is a serene place situated in Soufriere. Imagine tropical flowers on one side and a water fall on the other. See the Diamond Water fall images here:
Zip lining in the Caribbean in the last two years have increasing become popular, none more so than in St Lucia. Both in the north and the south there a Zip lining sites. My preference was the site in the north; its larger, more exhilarating and you almost feel like Tarzan weaving through a tropical forest from a great height!
St Lucia is synonymous for its twin peeks nearly 3,000 feet above the Caribbean Sea. Two volcanic spires in St. Lucia known as Gros Piton and Petit Piton make up the Piton management area, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its lush, green landscapes and diverse animal and plant life. For $25 you can hire a local guide to hike the Gros Piton.
Go on a whale watching safari. Tours are normally four hours and cost around $60 including a stop off for some scrumptious buffet lunch at Marigot Bay.
The Caribbean islands have a plethora of events during the course of the year. One of my favourites is the St Lucia Jazz festival. Normally around early May lasting for one week. Several of the leading hotels create an all inclusive package of jazz entertainment, dinner and accommodation. St Lucia jazz culminates on Pigeon Island with an array of international jazz and soul stars.
Although not the biggest, St Lucia carnival in July is colourful and spectacular as most of the Caribbean islands. On one particular visit, the final day of the carnival the road march champion was announced. It seemed no matter where we went the whole island was singing winning song.
If you are a rum connoisseur, each year in November the food and rum festival takes place organised by the St Lucia tourist board. A regional event featuring quite a few of the neighbouring islands popular rum’s.
To fully appreciate St Lucia’s beauty I would strongly recommend viewing the mountainous island by air. St Lucia helicopter tours offer three tour; North and South, North Island and South Island. All equally value for money
Guyana
Although not geographically situated in the Caribbean, economically and culturally there is a strong bond.
The awe inspiring Kaieteur Falls is the worlds longest single drop waterfall. Set deep in the Amazon jungle, there only one route of access, via plane. The plane journey in good weather takes about an hour, prior to landing the plane circles Kaieteur for great photo opportunities. Kaieteur National Park is a sanctuary of unique and magnificent flora, fauna and wildlife indigenous to only that area.
Adel’s Eco Resort stands at the edge of the Pomeroon River buffered from modern Georgetown by one of the many unspoiled creeks, the Akawini. Go and discover the wonderful rainforest with over ninety nine species of birds, the gardens of Adel’s invite contemplation and reflection.
Guyana’s finest lodge Rock view lodge which combines both comfort and natural beauty of the rainforest, mountains and savannahs. Rock view offers tourist Horse Back Riding, Hiking up the Pakaraimas and much more.
Take a tour around the Demerara Distillers Plantation find out the history of Guyana’s oldest rum, El Dorado.
Cayman Islands
Ever thought what it would be like to swim with Stingrays? At Sandbar you have the unique opportunity to experience swimming with up to twenty four Stingrays.
Play Golf at the Caribbean only Jack Nichlaus designed course. The nine hole championship layout can also play eighteen hole executive course. The course is set in a picturesque backdrop of natural lakes and estate homes.
Join the Atlantis submarine adventures has achieved the enviable milestone of having over ten million passengers worldwide. Atlantis covers full underwater experience form shallow reefs to ship wrecks of Georgetown harbour. This special underwater experience is available to all ages including babies.
Take a tour in the mysterious caves, once inhabited by pirates located in Boden Town only twenty minuets from Georgetown. Guaranteed fun for the entire family.
Whether you are an experienced horseback rider or not it’s worth seeing the Grand Cayman whilst riding on Caymans unspoilt beaches. You could either enjoy the sunset rides or even experience a full day riding in the sun.
Hog St Bay in George Town is where you will find Cayman Craft Market. All the local talented artists are at the market to display the array of wood carvings painting and one off inventions.
If you are passionate about nature then try the Queen Elizabeth II National Park – a park that is now used as a conservation site for the amazing and endangered Cayman Blue Iguana.
Those of you that are searching for adventure and discovery should also enjoy the diving experiences offered in the Cayman Islands. You can discover the mysteries that the clear blue ocean has to offer, or go wreck diving and explore the wreckage of a sunken ship. There are over 250 dive sites in Grand Cayman.
British Virgin Islands
If you are the kind of person that enjoys getting to grips with the big blue, then The British Virgin Islands can offer you endless hours of fun in the sun. Magen’s Bay Beach and Sapphire Beach are both popular locations for water sports and activities.
Recharge your batteries with a visit to one of the islands many spas and health retreats. Pamper and indulge your body and soul and come home feeling completely refreshed. The British Virgin Islands will make you feel like a new you. One of the best spas to try is The Little Dix Spa at Virgin Gorda.
You can visit an eco-friendly spa without worrying about the impact that you are making on the Islands’ fantastic natural beauty. St John is the perfect eco friendly retreat.
Fine cuisine and extraordinary events and fantastic shops are all waiting for you should you choose to visit The British Virgin Islands. Try Donovan’s Reef in Tortola for excellent international and Caribbean dishes.
Dominica
Witness the spectacular event of turtles nesting on Dominica’s beaches. Between March and August each year, four of the seven different breeds of turtle come to Dominica’s beaches to nest.
As well as seeing the amazing sight of turtles nesting, Dominica also offers the experience of Whale watching, a treat for any nature lover. The Western coast of Dominica is the perfect habitat for the Sperm Whale which frequents the waters constantly.
The World Creole music festival happens every year in October. Immerse yourself in the infectious sounds of the Creole rhythms.
There is also the opportunity to visit the yearly carnival, which allows you to witness amazing costumes, fantastic music and celebrate with the local people. The atmosphere is electric and should not be missed! The carnival takes place annually before lent, with 2009s festival taking place on 23rd and 24th Of February
If all of these sounds like too much work, then you can choose to relax instead, at one of Dominica’s spa and wellness venues. A massive range of treatments are available to suit you every need. Soak up the beautiful surroundings while you rejuvenate your body and mind. The jungle Bay Resort and Spa is a fantastic venue for holistic treatments.
Why not practice yoga in the perfect surroundings of a Caribbean paradise. There is no better way to stretch out and awaken your body and mind than in the middle of the natural world. You will never forget the experience of doing yoga in Dominica’s incomparable landscapes. The Jungle Bay Resort and Spa (mentioned above) also offers yoga for holiday makers.
Dominican Republic
There is more to Dominican Republic than sand and sea. If you are a nature lover then there are national parks and protected areas where you can experience outstanding views and native wildlife at your leisure. Parks include Los Haitises National Park, Jaragua National Park and the National Park Isla Cabritos.
If you want to discover the colourful cultural world of the Dominican Republic then you can visit during the Dominican carnival where local people and visitors from across the world come together to share joy and celebration annually. February is the month to see this extraordinary celebration with the climax being on the 27th – Dominican Republic’s Independence Day.
There are also numerous cultural sites to see, including The Sundial, The Espanish Square and the House of Juan Pablo Duarte. The history and culture of these attractions will feed your curiosity and entertain your thirst for knowledge.
For people who like thrills and action, there is no end to the activities that can be found in the Dominican Republic. Rock climbing, abseiling and off-roading are just a couple of adventures that you and your family or friends can participate during a visit to this amazing place
The country is a golfer’s paradise and is soon to be even better as more golf retreats are planned in the near future. One of the best resorts to try is the Playa Grande course outside of the city of Rio. This course offers extraordinary views.
There are spas and shopping centres to cater for all of your desires. Some of the best spas include The Ocean Bevaro spa and Beach resort and Sivoy Punta Cana.
For a trip that the whole family can enjoy and remember for a lifetime, try swimming with dolphins. The beauty and grace of the gentle and magnificent creatures will be something that you can relay to friends for years to come.
Grenada
For nature lovers, you might want to visit the volcanic lakes the Lake Antoine and Grand Etang, Lake where you can explore the volcanic crater lakes. These lakes are perfect place to sit and reflect on life. You may also visit the waterfalls in Concord waterfalls and Annandale waterfalls.
You can charter a yacht, experience and explore the beauty from the sea. There are also opportunities to hire a bigger yacht and head from Grenada right into St.Vincent.
Visit the Grand Anse White beaches where you can join the activities such as rum parties which go on way into the night.
You may also want to visit the Nutmeg Factory where you will see the most famous spice and learn how to make it. This activity is not only for fun, it is also very educational.
Fancy a hike? Try the famous Mount Sinai where you can view the beautiful lakes in its crater, faunas of Guatemala and native floral.
Visit the Museum of Carriacou where you will see amazing work of arts and relics from Amerindians. If you love discovering ancient artifacts, Mount Rich is perfect for you!
Probably the most famous thing to do in Grenada is diving. Grenada boasts the biggest shipwreck in the Caribbean. All the dive sites are in the south of the island, situated about fifteen minuets from Gran Anse beach.
Guadeloupe
Discover the West side of Guadeloupe with its fantastic natural beauty and amazing attractions. The island of Basse- Terre is the perfect getaway for people that want to see nature in all its glory.
Hiking trails and national parks are there for all that seek them in Basse-Terre. Visit the National park where you can see La Soufrière, a volcano that is a truly stunning sight to behold.
If you want to experience the ultimate in peace and tranquility head to La Désirade, one of the smaller and less populated islands in Guadeloupe. Here you will find that even the most popular beaches are nearly deserted, allowing you to have your own private paradise.
If you want to experience even more of the fascinating Guadeloupian culture then you can visit the islands’ many different architectural sites. There have been many cultural influences on Guadeloupe that have created a rich and varied mixture of design and buildings.
Haiti
A trip to Haiti wouldn’t be complete without visiting the popular capital city of Port-au-Prince. This is a perfect spot for holiday makers who want to shop and explore a bustling Haitian city. Check out the busy Iron Market while you are there.
Haiti is steeped in culture and heritage, so while you are there, make sure you visit some of its famous landmarks. Places of interest include; Statue of the Unknown Slave, Museum of Haitian Art, Defly Mansion and Gingerbread Houses.
If you want to experience authentic Haitain cuisine while you are away, then try the suburb of Pétionville. This town offers fantastic dining experiences, and an electric nightlife.
Why not try visiting one of the many National Parks or try boating on one of the lakes. Try the Pic Macaya National Park or the La Visite National Park
Visitors to Haiti can also enjoy the giddy thrills of gambling in one of Haiti’s many casinos. Along with an ample supply of nightclubs and bars, Haiti boasts casinos such as Casino El rancho and Casino Choucoune.
Jamaica
Dunn river falls is a must! Hand by hand you climb up on the slippery rocks (rubber shoes are supplied at the start of the climb). Get absolutely soaked through with the water gushing around you. The route down is equally as fun, as you part glide, part swim.
Check out Reggae Sumfeast (only if you like reggae of course). It is truly an international event. Normally takes place in July.
Travel up the Blue Mountains and smell the beautiful coffee beans in the process. Try and visit the mountains twice, once when foggy and when it’s sunny. I guarantee you, you would not believe you are at the same mountain.
Seven miles beach in Negril is absolute paradise! Imagine soft white sand, no lumps – clear blue water set in a beautiful environment.
Ocho Rios also has popular beaches in particular the beach that adjoins the hotel Jamaica Grande.
Looking to get away from the hustle of Kingston travel up to Strawberry Hill for unique Spa experience
Travel down Hope Road and visit the Bob Marley museum. I’m sure you’ll be inspired.
Relive Errol Flynn’s favourite pastime and travel down the Martha Brae in a raft.
The Great River Adventure Centre just outside Montego Bay features the exciting River Tubing Adventure or Kayak Safari. The Great River offers the excitement of gentle cascades flowing through a lush rain forest valley
If you love feeling an adrenalin rush, well you just have to try the Zip lining experience. Staff are so friendly and knowledgeable about the area.
Visit Dolphin Cove in the Ocho Rios, great calming experience to swim with dolphins.
One of Jamaica largest tourist attractions is the Blue Lagoon, there are local tales the lagoon is bottomless and that a dragoon lived beneathJ fabulous place to have lunch. My favourite was the Jerk Chicken!
Check out Somerset Falls is a great hideaway in the rainforest. Wonderful place to take your loved one just relaxing listening to nature. Or if you fancy bathing then a spot of lunch, then this is the place for you.
If you are a lover of beeches then you must check out the one at Frenchman’s cove. Frenchmans Cove Resort is set over forty five acres, famous for weddings, honeymooners and retreats.
Martinique
Like most Caribbean locations, Martinique offers a stunning array of beaches for you to relax on and enjoy. The top beaches are Les Salines in the south and Pointe de Bout in the west
If you are a fan of diving then be sure to visit Diamond Rock, which you will find between St Anne and Les Anse D’Alets. This is a popular tourist attraction as there is a myriad of coral and sea creatures to see below the Ocean’s surface – a must for any diving enthusiast.
If you want to dance the night away while on holiday, and prefer fashionable locations, then you will love Boulevard Allegre, Fort de France.
If you are interested in the history of Martinique, why not visit Clement House or the Rum distilleries while you are there.
Mexico
Mexico is famous for its golden coast lines and fantastic waves, perfect for anybody who is an accomplished surfer, or anyone who wants to learn while they are there. Alternatively, you can just lie in the sun and relax on Cozumel, an island that has nothing but beaches!
Mexico is also famous for is its amazing nightlife and bars. Cancun is an excellent location for enjoying what the night has to offer, or you can get a ticket to one of the exciting beach parties which takes place in the city. These parties are ticketed and have a 15,000 capacity – truly a night to remember!
Mexico is home to the volcanic peaks of Popocatépetl and Nevado de Toluca. These attractions are perfect for anyone who enjoys climbing. As an added bonus you can also go scuba diving in one of the water filled craters to glimpse spectacular natural beauty.
The famous Day of the Dead festival happens in November and takes place over two days. This is a unique and memorable experience as local people remember the spirits of dead children on the first day and then dead adults on the next.
Mexico is home to many spas that can provide a holiday maker with some much needed rest and relaxation. One of the best spas to try is Spa Cocoyoc in san Angel.
This wonderful country has more World Heritage Sites than any other country in the Americas including the Historic Centre of Mexico City and Historic fortified town of Campeche (Campeche) to name just a few.
Puerto Rico
The best beaches include Ocean Park beach between Concado and Isla Verde and Luquillo beach located 30 miles east of San Juan.
Puerto Rico The island boasts several fantastic diving locations such as the Black Wall, home to the rarely seen black coral
Puerto Rico is truly a golfer’s paradise. The island offers more than 20 different golf courses to satisfy your passion. Try the Westin Río Mar Beach Resort and Country Club near San Juan, which features some of the best Oceanside courses in Puerto Rico.
Visit some of the spectacular historical and cultural locations. Old San Juan – this is a popular tourist attraction that dates back 500 years. The town itself is amazing to see and also features many attractions and monuments.
Spanish forts – San Juan is the home to Spanish forts, which will interest anyone who enjoys historical structures and buildings.
La Fortaleza – This is the official residence of the Governor, but was built originally to guard San Juan’s harbour.
The city of San Juan boasts a range of different culinary venues such as Aguaviva, Augusto’s Cuisine and Dragonfly. These restaurants offer fantastic food, but also fantastic locations with spectacular buildings and beautiful views.
Puerto Rico is home to the San Sebastian street festival, which takes place from 17 to 20 January. If you want to mix with the locals and experience the modern fun of San Juan, then you will love this event.
St Kitts
Eden Brown Estate steeped in mystery and is said to be haunted. Tales are told of a weeping bride that can be heard from the estate’s grounds.
The Botanical Gardens of Nevis provide beautiful natural surroundings for people interested in tropical plants and wildlife. The gardens contain a wide selection of tropical plants that will take your breath away and provide a stunning backdrop.
St Martin
St. Martin provides one of the best locations to scuba dive and snorkel in the Caribbean. You can choose to wreck dive and visit the Great Bay and discover the wreck of an English battle ship dating back to the early 19th century or see the coral reef with its amazing array of marine plants and wildlife.
If you want to experience something more exciting on your holiday, why not try St. Martin’s Treetop Adventure Park? This fun park has an assault course that spreads through the expanse of a stunning private forest. You can have a go on the zip lines or just marvel at the beautiful 200 year old mango and mahogany trees.
St. Martin boasts a wide variety of different cuisines. Every food taste can be catered for with traditional Creole cooking, French cuisine, Oriental and East Indian foods all available. Restaurants to try include Beau Beaus and the Hideaway to name just a few.
No holiday to St. Martin would be complete without a shopping spree. The island is the home to some of the most beautiful products from all over the world. An added bonus is in St. Martin all your purchases are duty free.
St Vincent
There are some fantastic venues for night-clubbers and party-goers, including the Attic Club, and the Buccama Club.
If you want to take a few risks while you are away you can try your luck at St. Vincent’s casino, located on the Leeward side of the island.
Boat trips are a fantastic way to see the island. Why not try taking a trip to The Falls of Baleine – a beautiful freshwater falls stream from volcanic slopes. You can also take a trip to the tiny Young Island, which provides a lovely view into the harbor of St. Vincent.
Holiday makers who are looking to experience the cultural sights of St. Vincent can visit the inspiring St Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral in Kingstown. This cathedral is known for its gothic architecture and dramatic arches.
St. Vincent is the home to the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere. One of the main attractions of the gardens is the breadfruit tree that is descended from an original brought to the island in 1765.
Turks & Caicos
Learn about the history and culture of Turks and Caicos visit Haulover Estate in Caicos or Wade’s Green Plantation. Both of these locations provide you with a fantastic insight into the workings of plantations on the islands.
The citizens of Turks and Caicos are very serious about preserving natural areas of beauty and interest. There are many national parks and protected areas that tourists can visit whilst on holiday, such as, Columbus Landfall marine National Park or Long cay Sanctuary.
Trinidad
February is the period for the annual Trinidad Carnival; you can frequent the events and enjoy a selection of music and dance from Trinidad and Tobago, including Soca and Calypso.
If you’re into watching wildlife, perhaps you can take the time out to view some of the best wildlife in the Caribbean. Endangered species of turtle can be seen in protected beach locations coming ashore to lay their eggs. You can learn a lot about turtle and wildlife conservation this way.
Barbados
A must see attraction in Barbados is Harrison Cave, an underground cave that has crystallised limestone which creates stalactites and stalagmites. Kids absolutely adore this attraction.
One the biggest and best carnivals in the Caribbean is entitled “Crop over” hosted every July. You haven’t been to a carnival until you visit Crop over, man.
Go exploring off the beaten-track with island Safari Tours, visit the flour forest or and old plantation house, or mingle with monkeys at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Visit Ocean Park a unique marine aquarium park featuring over twenty six exhibits.
Aruba
Try naturalist pursuits in Arikok National Park, providing a glimpse into the islands past
Visit Bubali Bird Sanctuary an official nature preserve. Located not far from the hotel strip and represents important nesting sites for the Blue Heron, Castle Egret and the snowy Egret.
Ever wanted to do Kite surfing? A thrilling experience that utilises the island trade wind for a ride across the water and up into the air. Capture the wind and slim along the water while your feet are strapped into the kite board. Contact Aruba Kaya Adventures on arrival
Atlantis Submarine is a two hour adventure beginning with a thirty minute cruise to the submarine dive site. Once aboard the Atlantis VI Submarine a one hour dive follows with a trip past the sunken wrecks of Mi Dushi
Almost every resort in Aruba has a Spa, each offering its own unique experience and menu of treatment options. The Renaissance Marina Hotel offers specialty treatments including the “Chocolate embrace.”
Bahamas
Junkanoo is an annual celebration that represents the heart of the people. Dance group spend the whole year preparing costumes and developing elaborate dance routines. Event kicks off over the Christmas period.
The longest beach on the island and in my opinion the best is cable Beach. A four mile stretch of off white sand.
Best sites to Snorkel are Sea Garden, Snorkelers Cove or Athol Island National Marine Park. Just imagine swimming with schools of colourful fish whilst marvelling at the underwater garden.
Book a half day Boat charter and enjoy some Deep Sea Fishing with potential for catching the likes of Sailfish, Wahoo or Yellofin Tuna in the Nassau waters.
If Golf is your sport you must experience the Ocean Club. Imagine playing 18 ocean side holes on a PGA quality course surrounded by sweeping views of sand and surf.
After dark there many bars, nightclubs to visit, while you’re there I urge you to “go native” and try an island- inspired drink, Bahama Mama.
If you’re holidaying with the family then it is my recommendation to visit, Dolphin Cay at Atlantis, Pirates of Nassau Museum, Ardastra Garden & Zoo and finally Blackbeard’s Cay.