Conjure images of the Caribbean in your mind and you probably imagine palm-lined beaches with white sand, crystal clear water, colourful colonial towns and incredibly warm welcomes. And while these images are pretty accurate across the region, you can add to this a stunning diversity of wildlife, fascinating history, and a range of distinct cultures and traditions. It all combines to make the Caribbean one of the most iconic tourist destinations on the planet - a place where dreams genuinely do come true. The only hard part is knowing where to start. With so many islands to choose from, it would take a lifetime to explore them all.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in the Caribbean
Lucayan Archipelago - Containing the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, this archipelago lies to the north of the region, closest to the Florida coastline of mainland USA.
Greater Antilles - Comprising Cuba, the Caymans, Dominican Republic and Jamaica amongst others, these are the main islands and big cultural heavyweights of the region. Yet each is completely different from the next.
Lesser Antilles - Made up of the Leeward Islands, Windward Islands and ABC Islands, these are generally small and beautiful, with a range of languages and cultures to add to amazing natural conditions
Other islands - Not belonging to any of the main groups, there are numerous other islands in the Caribbean, including Bermuda, the Corn Islands, as well as some mainland South American destinations that are culturally tied to the region.
Things to See in the Caribbean
Visit some of the region’s great cities, including Havana, Port-au-Prince, and Kingston. These capitals are often the focal points of island culture, where you can discover incredible history, music and food. Learn more about Castro and Communism in Cuba, slave revolts in Haiti and dance to the reggae beat in Jamaica. Sit on some of the world’s best beaches or wander the streets of small colonial gems like Port of Spain. Discover the Caribbean’s Latin flavour in the Dominican Republic, with English, French and Dutch influences too. Everywhere you look there is incredible nature, including the Jardines del Rey, Maracas National Park and more.
Things to Do in the Caribbean
There are more than 7,000 islands in the Caribbean and less than 10% are inhabited. Which means there is a huge amount of coastline to explore. Sail around the islands, learning to dive in the tropical waters. Or snorkel from the beach as you relax and enjoy the balmy climate. Spot the brightly coloured parrots in the canopy or hit the trail in pristine environments including St Lucia’s majestic Piton Mountains. Sample an array of Caribbean cooking, dance the night away in Havana or learn more about the mysterious voodoo religion in Haiti. There are unique cultural, historical and gastronomic adventures around every corner.
