Beginner's Guide to The Caribbean

Cayman Islands

2006-04-19T16:14:36Z

The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. They are located in the Western Caribbean and are a British Crown Colony. The islands lie 150 miles south of Cuba and 180 miles northwest of Jamaica. The combined land area of the three islands is 100 square miles. Grand Cayman is the largest and most developed island and is separated from its two sister islands by 89 miles of water. The sister islands are separated by a seven-mile-wide channel.

One of the most famous tourist attractions on Grand Cayman is the Cayman Turtle Farm in West Bay; the farm is the only one of its kind in the world. Over 16,000 sea turtles, ranging from six ounces to 600 pounds each, make this their home. The Cayman Turtle Farm is a reminder of the history of the islands, since Christopher Columbus first named the islands “Las Tortugas” in 1503, meaning The Turtles. Legend says that at that time there were so many turtles, the islands looked like they were covered with rocks!

Diving is the main attraction on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, but there are many places to visit on land, as well. Don’t miss the historical museums, dramatic caves, nature trails, or the 180-acre Parrot Reserve on Cayman Brac! Little Cayman features even more exotic birds, and it also houses the Little Cayman Rock Iguana population, with an estimated 2,000 iguanas.

Gorgeous surf, relentless sun, exotic wildlife, and spectacular diving experiences will make the Cayman Islands a vacation destination you’ll not soon forget!

Cuba

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The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba has an area of 750 miles and is approximately the size of Pennsylvania. Cuba is situated amidst the Straits of Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, the Yucatan Channel, the Windward Passage, and the Caribbean Sea. The Republic of Cuba is made up of the mainland and many outlying islands such as the Isle of Youth. It lies south of the United States and The Bahamas, west of Haiti, and east of Mexico.

El Nicho, one of Cuba’s best-kept secrets, is a beautiful place to visit. Located within the Sierra del Escambray, El Nicho has waterfalls with small bathing pools and breathtaking mountain vistas. There are facilities for camping, swimming, and horseback riding, making this a favorite family spot.

With a population of over two million, Havana is one of the largest and most energetic cities in the Caribbean. Havana is an old town that is constantly under renovations to improve the historical city and its buildings. The night life is extremely vibrant and popular in Havana. Not to be missed are Havana’s many museums and also The Capitolio, modeled after the Capitol in Washington, D.C., which is elaborately decorated and was once the home of the Cuban government.

Cuba is a place to explore and take in the history by day, and visit clubs and bars by night, making it an exciting and interesting vacation spot.

Curaçao

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Settled between Aruba and Bonaire lies the beautiful and cultural island of Curaçao. The island is 38 miles long and 8 miles wide at its widest point. Curaçao’s population is over 170,000, representing more than 50 different ethnic backgrounds, of which the islanders are very proud.

Curaçao is most famous for its fine liqueur and its beautiful weather and private beaches. However, there is much more that makes up this island’s flavor. You can visit one of the 38 beaches and soak up the sun. Snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and deep sea fishing are also popular ways to spend your day. Or, if you would prefer dry activities, play golf, tennis, or squash, or take a hike or a ride on horseback to tour the island.

A favorite place for nature lovers is Christoffel Park. Wild orchids are among the many plants to be seen here, and wildlife includes the native barn owl. There is also a Curaçao deer population of 250. The land of this beautiful park surrounds one of the island’s first plantations; deep wells, dams and watermills can be seen throughout Christoffel Park. Also, check out the Curaloe Ecocity, or Aloe Plantage. Here, natural aloe vera plants are abundant; tours of the plantage are available.

Other sites of note are: Curaçao Sea Aquarium, Den Dunki National Park, Hato Caves, Dolphin Academy Curacaco, and Marco’s Fishfarm. All in all, Curaçao is an awesome place to visit, rich in culture and history. It makes a wonderful trip for families who enjoy the outdoors.

Sources:

www.bermuda.com
www.geographia.com
www.infobonaire.com
www.bvitourism.com
www.britishvirginislands.com
www.destination.ky
www.caymanislands.ky
www.cuba.com
www.iexplore.com
www.curacao.com

Dominica

2006-04-19T16:17:50Z

Dominica, an Independent nation not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, is located in the Eastern Caribbean and has an area of 289.5 square miles. The island is 29 miles long and 16 miles wide at its widest point. Dominica is located between the islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, and is widely known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean.

One of Dominica’s most famous and magnificent features is the Boiling Lake. The lake is actually a hole in a volcanic area that has been flooded, filled with bubbling water that usually has a cloud of vapor around it. It is 200 feet across. There is an 8-mile hike to the lake that is sometimes dangerous and often uphill; it is important to go with a guide. Though the hike is tiring, wet, and muddy, those who have experienced the Boiling Lake’s awe will testify that it’s well worth the trip!

Besides the ever-present vacation activities such as scuba diving, sailing, and beach combing, Dominica offers many activities for nature enthusiasts. The island is full of spectacular waterfalls, adventurous hikes, freshwater lakes, hot springs, geysers, and more.

If you are seeking both adventure and relaxation in a natural setting, book Dominica for your next vacation!

Dominican Republic

2006-04-19T16:18:52Z

The Dominican Republic is located east of Haiti, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. Its area is 18,815 square miles and its population is 8,850,000. The Dominican Republic is comprised of white beaches, mountain ranges, beautiful rivers and waterfalls, saltwater lakes, and exotic wildlife. West Indian manatees and bottlenose dolphins are prevalent in the DR.

Perhaps the most popular attraction in the Dominican Republic is Parque Nacional Del Este, or National Park of the East. The park houses 112 know species of birds and a variety of other animals. A unique place to visit, the park has dry forests, subtropical humid forests, and transitional forests. There are also caves to explore and activities such as kayaking and other water sports to enjoy.

A new attraction in the Dominican Republic is a buggy tour that takes visitors through the DR’s beautiful scenery to a Dominican water plant that cleans drinking water. After this interesting learning experience, visitors are taken to an exclusive private country club on a mountain where there are breathtaking 360-degree views. At this point you can choose to stay at the club and take advantage of its facilities, including sports, swimming, and a playground for the kids. If you want to stay on the tour, you will explore the local mountains and rivers on horseback!

Don’t forget to visit Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic and the place to find the hottest night life!

Grenada

2006-04-19T16:19:46Z

Grenada, also known as the Spice of the Caribbean, is a three-island state located in the Eastern Caribbean, 100 miles north of Venezuela. The three islands are Grenada, the largest of the three, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique. Grenada’s area is 133 square miles, and Carriacou’s is 13 square miles. Petit Martinique’s area is 586 acres. Grenada’s population is about 93,000.

Grenada is one of the world’s major suppliers of many spices, including nutmeg and mace. The abundant spice estates on Granada are interesting places to visit for something different on your vacation. Allspice, clove, cinnamon, ginger, bay leaves, tumeric, and sapote are all grown in Grenada. The fertile soil of the islands was initially used to grow sugar cane for rum production, and rum is still made in Grenada. There are also guided tours of the major rum distilleries, complete with tastes of local rum.

Grenada’s mountainous land provides some amazing waterfalls. Some falls are ideal for swimming and are accessible by road, and others are only accessed by foot, but all of the views are worth the journeys. The highest falls on the island are the Royal Mt. Carmel Falls, also known as the Marquis Falls. These include two falls that are over 70 feet high.

Since Grenada’s landscape is so mountainous, it has an irregular coastline with several small bays and inlets. This accounts for the island’s many secluded and private beaches. There are common white-sand beaches and more rare black sand beaches, on which the sand is unbelievably soft. The most famous stretch of beach is two-mile long Grand Anse. Peppered with hotels and resorts, this beach is a favorite tourist spot.

If you’re looking to “spice up” your next vacation, Grenada is the place for you!

Guadeloupe

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Creole-influenced Guadeloupe is located in the Eastern Caribbean Sea and is comprised of five islands: Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, La Désirade, Les Saintes, and Marie-Galante. The total area is 687 square miles and the population is 412,000. Guadeloupe has an interesting blend of African and French influences.

Guadeloupe allows visitors a taste of France in the Caribbean. The scenery is spectacular, the landscape is lush, and there are both mountains and beaches to enjoy. Here, you can enjoy some of the best Creole cuisine available in the Caribbean. And for a true island experience, stay at one of the island’s quaint, tranquil inns and enjoy home-cooked meals prepared fresh with local flavor.

The Route de la Traversée, or the Transcoastal Highway, is the best way to explore Parc Naturel de Guadeloupe, one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the Caribbean. This park is a huge combination of mountains and tropical forests, and it provides a home for a huge variety of tame animals and exotic birds. There are small exhibition huts throughout the park that provide information on Guadeloupe’s volcano, forests, and exports such as coffee, sugar cane, and rum. Parc Naturel is never closed, has no admission fee, and is not gated.

For some French inspiration and gorgeous scenery, visit the lovely island of Guadeloupe.

Guyana

2006-04-19T16:21:20Z

Guyana lies just above the Equator on the northeast corner of the South American continent. This nation, whose name means Land of Many Waters, is bordered by Suriname, Brazil, Venezuela, and the Atlantic Ocean. It is the third smallest country in South America.
Guyana’s area is 83,000 square miles and it has a diverse population of 765,200.

Guyana’s most mystic feature is its water. As its name suggests, the waters are an important part of Guyana’s tourism. From the blue waters of the Caribbean, visitors will notice the waters turning brown as they approach the Guyanan coastline. These brown waters get darker the further inland you go, eventually turning black. Guyana’s black waters are serene and enchanting; they are most stunning at some of the cascades and waterfalls on the island. Orinduik, one of the most popular falls, is easily accessible and is a natural jacuzzi for brave travelers.

Along with the common vacation pleasures such as beaches, historical sites, and exciting cities, Guyana offers travelers a more natural approach to vacation. One of the most popular nature resorts in Guyana is the Timberhead Eco-Resort. Even though the resort is not far from the major city of Georgetown, the natural element is not compromised; the resort can be accessed by way of a relaxing boat ride along the Kamuni Creek. Nature Trails are prevalent at the resort; after you enjoy the splendor of the trails, you can spend the night in one of the three jungle lodges on the resort property.

To be pampered and astounded by nature, visit the striking land of Guyana.

Haiti

2006-04-19T16:22:09Z

Between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic, lies Haiti. The Republic of Haiti also includes the smaller islands of La Gonâve, La Tortue (Tortuga), Les Cayemites, île à Vache, La Grande Caye, and Navasa. The total area is 10,714 square miles and the population is 8,121,622. Haiti, formerly a French colony, declared its independence in 1804 and became the second independent country in the Americas, after the United States.

Labadie, or Labadee, an area on the north coast of Haiti just outside the city of Cap-Haïtien, is a popular tourist spot. Cruise ships frequent the area, dumping thousands of vacationers on the beach each week, which causes this well-kept beach to be quite crowded. If you’re not into combing the beach for a vacant piece of sand, you can go a little further west to the Baie d’ Acul (Bay of Acul), which is almost completely closed off from the ocean, making it safe from storms. Christopher Columbus used this bay as a shelter during his first voyage. Across the bay are many small islands and reefs to explore.

Along with many other tropical destinations, Haiti offers snorkeling, boating, parasailing, waverunners, and several other beach activities. A favorite place for snorkeling is the beautiful but tiny Amiga Island. The beach is flawless, but the main attractions of this island are the reefs, coral formations, and sea life easily admired through the clear water.

Haiti delivers a vacation with plenty of sun and water fun!

Sources:
www.ndcdominica.dm
www.avirtualdominica.com
www.natureisland.com
www.dominicanrepublic.com
www.grenadagrenadines.com
www.wikipedia.org
www.away.com
www.turq.com
www.cia.gov
www.discoverhaiti.com

Jamaica

2006-05-08T15:04:50Z

Jamaica is the Caribbean’s third largest island and is a popular vacation spot featuring rafting excursions, hiking, windsurfing, golfing, and much more. Jamaica has mountainous inlands that are surrounded by a narrow coastal plain and most of the major cities are located on the coast.

Jamaica has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather unless you go inland which is a bit more temperate climate. Jamaica attracts the most visitors in the winter months of December through April, which is their driest season. After Easter, the weather warms up but this is the time in which you can get the best values for hotels. Hurricane season is generally from June through November and you can find even better values during this time period.

Reggae, ska, mento, rocksteady, dub, dancehall, raga jungle are all musical genres that originated in Jamaica. Bob Marley, one of the best known reggae musicians, was born in Jamaica and is still much respected in the area. You can even take a guided tour of Bob Marley’s home during your visit. Jamaica offers many musical festivals all through the year.

The major tourist areas are Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril, and Kingston. There are unforgettable beaches and beautiful waterfalls in Jamaica, along with stunning plantation homes. There are many half day tours offered in all resort areas with visits to plantations, a rum distillery, and city tours.

Don’t miss out on the local cuisine including jerk chicken and the ever popular Jamaican rum drinks. It is recommended that you avoid uncooked meats, ice, and drink only bottled water.

Martinique

2006-05-08T15:06:00Z

Martinique is a Caribbean island situated in the French West Indies. Martinique was colonized by France in 1635 and is still a part of France even though the French residents only make up about 15 percent of Martinique’s population. The main language in Martinique is French and the money is French currency. It is helpful to know some of the French language when visiting Martinique. U.S. and Canadian visitors are allowed to stay in Martinique for up to three months by showing proof of citizenship.

Martinique is home to Fort de France which is a cosmopolitan city of over 100,000 people and the largest city on Martinique. Martinique has world class lodging and restaurants along with many interesting attractions such as fishing villages, rum distilleries, botanical gardens, hiking, kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, and beautiful beaches.

Martinique excels in warm, sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 70 to 87 degrees but you can expect a little rain each day.

The peak season for visitors is from mid-November through May. After that time period many of the hotels will close down for months. Martinique’s Carnival begins in January running until Lent. The Tour des Yoles Rondes is in early August and the Jazz a la Martinique festival takes place in early December featuring a range of international talents such as Branford Marsalis.

There are many scattered ruins and other historical monuments to visit. The island is the birth place of Empress Josephine, wife of Napoleon. Musee de la Pagerie Trois-llets is a museum located in the village of Trois-Islets featuring Josephine’s family portraits, antique furnishings, and even a love letter written to Josephine by Napoleon in 1796.

Montserrat

2006-05-08T15:06:41Z

Montserrat is a mountainous island in the Caribbean Sea, located in the Leeward Islands which are part of the Lesser Antilles. Montserrat is approximately 300 miles east-southeast of Puerto Rico and 30 miles southwest of Antigua. Much of the island of Montserrat was devastated by Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and then six years later by the eruption of the Soufriere Hills Volcano. Montserrat has endured volcanic activity since that time.

Montserrat is a somewhat isolated tropical island with Plymouth being the only major community on the island. There are no traffic lights or international shopping chains on the island of Montserrat but if you are looking for a serene island where you can hike, snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, and ride mountain bikes, then Montserrat is your place.

Accommodations on Montserrat range from intimate guesthouses and small boutiques to grand oceanfront villas. The Tropical Mansion Suites and the Vue Ponte Hotel are the only two hotels on the island.

There are a number of restaurants that serve meals prepared with locally grown produce and herbs. You can find anything from lobster burgers to coconut shrimp. Mountain Chicken is one of the local delicacies which you may know as Frog Legs. Montserrat is also known for their Goat Water which is a thick stew with chunks of goat meat eaten with hot crusty bread rolls. There are many local drinks made from exotic fruits found on the island. Homemade ginger beer in offered in most local restaurants.

Puerto Rico

2006-05-08T15:07:15Z

Known as the “Island of Enchantment,” Puerto Rico is the smallest of the Greater Antilles islands. Puerto Rico is under the U.S. customs jurisdiction which allows for free movement between the United States and Puerto Rico. There are no passports or visas necessary for U.S. citizens to visit Puerto Rico.

Spanish is the dominant language in Puerto Rico but English is also spoken in most tourist areas.

Puerto Rico is known for its miles of white sandy beaches, a rain forest, and mountains. Not only will you want to take in the sunshine and natural wonders of Puerto Rico, but you won’t want to miss the culture of the Old World. Old San Juan is one of the most recommended experiences in Puerto Rico. You will want to tour the coffee plantations and colonial towns. The forts, museums, and shops can keep you busy for a full day. Puerto Rico also offers many acres of golf courses, tennis courts, and every imaginable water sport. San Juan is a large city full of glitzy resorts and casinos as well as a stunning colonial zone.

Week long patron saints’ festivals take place throughout the year all over the island. The pre-Lenten Carnival takes place in Puerto Rico and offers parades, beauty pageants, music competitions, and parties. In early June, the Pablo Casals Festival takes place in San Juan. The annual Festival of Puerto Rican music takes place in San Juan during November.

Restaurants in Puerto Rico range from the elegant to the simple. Along with the U.S. style fast food restaurants you will find painted roadside stands selling rice and beans.

The weather in Puerto Rico is year round summer temperatures with 80 degrees being the average. Light and loose clothing is recommended for daytime but you may want a light sweater for evenings. Swimwear and leisure wear is fine for the resorts but anywhere else you go may require a little more dressing up.

The busy season in San Juan is from mid-December through mid-April and you will find it rather expensive during peak time. During off-season you can usually find good deals all over the island.

Saba

2006-05-08T15:07:58Z

While Saba is a Caribbean Island, it is not a typical island. There are no sandy shores for beach lovers and no glitzy casinos but you can enjoy the quiet tranquility of the four small villages, beautiful mountainside scenery, and wonderful scuba diving in Saba. There are only about 1000 residents in Saba and it only draws around 25,000 visitors yearly.

Saba is called the “Unspoiled Queen” because it is an island that has not been spoiled by time. Saba offers stunning hiking trails, day spas, and pristine diving at 26 dive spots. The island is so small that diving boats can reach all sites within minutes where you will enjoy the rich corals, lava tunnels and hot springs. There are colorful tropical fish as well as groupers, jacks, turtles, and rays of all sizes and shapes in Saba.

You’ll want to visit the colorful villages of Hell’s Gate, Windwardside, St. John, and The Bottom. Be sure to pick up some of the Saban lace which is called “Spanish work” because the art was imported from Venezuela and some of the famous Saba spice. It is a potent spice containing all types of spicy products and then it is spiked with 151-proof rum.

Saba offers cozy inns, luxurious hotels, and guesthouses for accommodations. There are restaurant choices from fine dining to local treats.

Suriname

2006-05-08T15:08:30Z

Suriname is located on the northwest coast of the South American Caribbean and has a population of less than 500,000. The official language of Suriname is Dutch but many people there speak English.

Paramaribo, meaning “city of flowers,” is the capital of Suriname. In Paramaribo you will find the Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino which features a 15,000 square foot casino, wedding chapel, two-story waterfall, and much more. This is considered the Las Vegas of South America.

When visiting Suriname you will want to see the massive Presidential Palace, the 350-year-old Fort Zeelandia, as well as the rain forest. There is plenty of golf, sport fishing, and exploring the jungle where you can spot some of the 400 species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians living in Suriname jungles.

Visit the Central Market in Paramaribo where you can pick up wood items, painted gourds, wicker items, ceramics, and handcrafted gold and silver jewelry, along with many more items.

Visitors from the U.S. and Canada must have a tourist visa and a passport valid for six months from the date of travel along with an onward or return ticket.

Be aware that tourists are common targets for pickpockets and it is recommended that you do not walk around at night and you should avoid the Palm Garden area in Paramaribo at all times. Police in Suriname generally only respond to serious crimes.