Caribbean holidays

Good to know for Caribbean holidays

Embarking on a Caribbean holiday offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Here’s essential information to make the most of your trip.

How to reach the Caribbean

• Flight time: Direct flights from the UK to popular Caribbean destinations like Barbados or Jamaica typically range from 8 to 10 hours.

• Transfer time from the airport to the city centre: Varies by island, but most major resorts and hotels are within a 20 to 60-minute drive from international airports.

• Price of different transport options: Airport transfers can vary, with taxis, shared shuttles, and private car hires available. Prices are dependent on the island and the distance to your accommodation.

Best time to visit the Caribbean

• Dry season (December to April): Less rainfall and more tourists. Ideal for beach holidays and festivals.

• Wet season (May to November): More rainfall but fewer tourists. Lower prices and lush landscapes.

• Average temperatures: Range from 25°C to 30°C throughout the year.

• High season vs low season: High season aligns with the dry season, while the low season corresponds with the wet season, often bringing better deals.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is widely spoken, along with Spanish, French, and Dutch, depending on the island.

• Local habits and customs: Caribbean culture is a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences. Respect local customs, dress modestly outside beach areas, and be mindful of island time – a relaxed approach to schedules.

• Tips: Tipping is customary, with 10-15% being standard if a service charge isn’t included.

• Currency: Varies by island. US dollars are widely accepted, but local currencies are preferred for smaller transactions.

• Getting around: Rental cars, taxis, and local buses are common. Some islands also offer ferry services between them.

• Electricity/plugs: Most islands use 110V, standard American two-pin plugs, but some places, like Barbados, use the UK standard 230V.

Things to do in the Caribbean

A Caribbean holiday is a gateway to an array of unforgettable experiences, blending adventure, relaxation, culture, and natural beauty. Each island has its unique attractions, offering something special for every traveller.

Viewpoints and panoramas

The Caribbean's vistas are unparalleled, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramas in the world.

• Witness the stunning beauty of the Caribbean Sea from the heights of El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico.

• Experience the majestic views over the Grenadines from Fort Charlotte in St. Vincent.

The best districts

Dive into the heart of Caribbean culture by exploring its vibrant districts and towns.

• Stroll through the colourful streets of Willemstad in Curaçao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Discover the bustling atmosphere and Creole architecture of Castries Market in St. Lucia.

• Wander the historic old town of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the oldest European settlement in the Americas.

Parks and gardens

The Caribbean is a haven for nature lovers, boasting an array of parks and gardens that highlight the region's lush flora and fauna.

• Explore the Hunte's Gardens in Barbados, a magical garden nestled in a gully of the island's countryside.

• Visit the Botanical Gardens in Kingstown, St. Vincent, some of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

Day trips in the area

Embark on day trips that showcase the diversity and beauty of the Caribbean landscape.

• Take a boat trip to The Baths on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, where giant boulders form natural tidal pools, tunnels, arches, and scenic grottoes.

• Visit the Mayan ruins of Tulum in Mexico, perched above a beach on the Caribbean coast.

• Explore the French and Dutch sides of St. Martin/St. Maarten, experiencing two distinct cultures on one island.

This approach should offer a varied and engaging overview of activities for visitors to the Caribbean, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences.

Best beaches in the Caribbean

Exploring the best beaches in the Caribbean unveils a stunning array of choices, each with its unique charm and beauty. Here are some remarkable beaches across various Caribbean islands that promise unforgettable experiences:

1. Playa Pilar, Cayo Guillermo: The beach located in Cuba is celebrated for its natural beauty; Playa Pilar is named after Ernest Hemingway's boat and features in his novel "Islands in the Stream". Its pristine sands and clear waters make it a top choice for beach lovers.

2. Maho Bay Beach, St. John: In the U.S. Virgin Islands, a less crowded alternative to nearby Trunk Bay Beach, Maho Bay offers excellent snorkelling opportunities with its colourful reefs and sea life, including manta rays and sea turtles. The beach is also a starting point for scenic hikes offering expansive views.

3. Playa Flamenco, Culebra: Renowned for its stunning beauty, Playa Flamenco in Puerto Rico is set in a protected bay on the tiny islet of Culebra. It's ideal for snorkelling, swimming, and family outings, featuring amenities like restrooms, beach chair rentals, and food kiosks.

4. Big Major Cay (Pig Beach): Famous for its swimming pigs, this beach offers more than just a unique photo op. It's one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas, with pristine white sands and clear waters, accessible by a relaxing catamaran ride from Staniel Cay.

5. Seven Mile Beach: Located outside of Negril, Jamaica, this beach is celebrated for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters. Despite its popularity, it retains a relaxed atmosphere, with a mix of high-end and local dining options.

6. Playa Lagun, Curaçao: A small, secluded beach perfect for snorkelling thanks to its protected bay and abundant marine life. Amenities like beach chairs, a dive shop, and a restaurant make it a comfortable spot for visitors.

7. Batibou Beach: Set on Dominca's north coast, this quiet cove beach offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature. Its unique setting, with picnic benches and swings, provides a serene beach day experience.

8. Bávaro Beach, Dominican Republic: Located in Punta Cana, Bávaro Beach is famed for its idyllic white sands and palm trees. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, though dining options may be pricier due to the proximity of hotels and resorts.

Each of these beaches offers a distinct slice of paradise, whether you're seeking adventure, tranquillity, or just a beautiful spot to relax. From the historical allure of Playa Pilar in Cuba to the serene beauty of Batibou Beach in Dominica, there's a perfect beach for every type of traveller in the Caribbean.

Exploring Caribbean cuisine

Caribbean cuisine is a vibrant fusion of African, Creole, Cajun, Amerindian, European, Latin American, Indian, and Chinese influences. This melting pot of flavours offers a unique and tantalising dining experience, marked by its use of fresh, local ingredients like seafood, tropical fruits, and a variety of spices.

• Signature dishes: Must-try dishes include jerk chicken from Jamaica, roti from Trinidad and Tobago, and cou-cou and flying fish from Barbados.

• Local fruits and vegetables: The Caribbean islands are blessed with an abundance of fresh produce. Don't miss the chance to try exotic fruits like guava, papaya, and soursop, as well as root vegetables like yucca and sweet potato.

• Seafood: With the ocean at their doorstep, Caribbean islands offer an exquisite selection of seafood. Grilled fish, conch fritters, and lobster are just a few of the delicacies you'll find.

• Street food: For a genuine taste of local life, explore the street food scene. From spicy patties to fresh fruit smoothies, these budget-friendly options are a flavourful way to sample the local cuisine.

Drinks and nightlife

The Caribbean is just as famous for its drinks as it is for its food. From world-renowned rums to fruity cocktails, the islands offer plenty of options to quench your thirst.

• Rum: The spirit of the Caribbean, rum, is produced across the islands, each with its own distinct flavour. Distillery tours are a popular activity, offering insights into the rum-making process and tastings.

• Cocktails: The Caribbean is the birthplace of many iconic cocktails. Don't leave without trying a refreshing mojito, a sweet pina colada, or a zesty daiquiri.

• Local breweries and distilleries: Beyond rum, many islands have their own breweries producing local beers. Craft spirits are also on the rise, with distilleries making everything from gin to vodka using local ingredients.

• Nightlife: The Caribbean nightlife ranges from laid-back beach bars to vibrant nightclubs. Enjoy live music, dance the night away to soca and reggae, or simply relax with a drink under the stars.

Local sports events in the Caribbean

Exploring local sports events in the Caribbean offers an authentic glimpse into the region's passion for sports. From the fervour of cricket matches to the energy of regattas, these events are a vibrant part of Caribbean culture.

• How to live it like a local: Attend a cricket match, the region's most beloved sport, to experience the local enthusiasm first-hand. Join in the festivities, enjoy the food, and cheer alongside the locals.

• Stadiums or arenas: Kensington Oval in Barbados and Sabina Park in Jamaica are iconic venues for cricket. For football (soccer), check out Hasely Crawford Stadium in Trinidad.

• Where to go to watch a match: Local bars and community centres often broadcast international and regional matches. Joining a viewing party is a great way to mingle with locals.

Sports facilities for travellers in the Caribbean

The Caribbean offers a variety of sports facilities catering to travellers looking to stay active or try something new.

• Swimming-pools: Resorts and public pools are available throughout the islands, with many offering stunning views.

• Yoga: Beachfront yoga sessions are a peaceful way to start the day, available in many resorts and local studios.

• Fitness, dancing, tennis: Many resorts have fitness centres, dance studios, and tennis courts. Salsa and reggae dance classes are popular for experiencing the local culture through movement.

Cycling

Cycling is a wonderful way to explore the islands' diverse landscapes, from coastal roads to mountain trails.

• Bike rental: Rental shops are found in major tourist areas, offering everything from casual cruisers to high-end road bikes.

• Popular cycling routes: Coastal routes offer breathtaking ocean views, while mountain trails provide challenging terrains with rewarding vistas.

Hiking

Hiking in the Caribbean reveals the stunning natural beauty of the islands, from lush rainforests to volcanic peaks.

• Popular hiking routes: The Waitukubuli National Trail in Dominica spans 185 km, offering a diverse trek through the island's natural wonders. The Blue Mountains in Jamaica are also renowned for their hiking trails.

Water sports

The Caribbean is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

• Snorkelling and diving are must-do activities, with world-class sites like the Belize Barrier Reef and the US Virgin Islands.

• Windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular in Aruba and the Bahamas, thanks to their ideal wind conditions.

• Kayaking and paddleboarding offer serene ways to explore the coastlines and mangroves.

Golf courses

The Caribbean is home to some of the world's most scenic golf courses, attracting enthusiasts with their challenging layouts and spectacular settings.

• The Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Dominican Republic boast courses designed by golf legends, offering a mix of luxury and natural beauty.

The Caribbean is renowned for its vibrant and diverse carnival celebrations, with each island offering a unique take on this festive tradition. Here's an overview of notable carnival events across the Caribbean islands, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultures, music, and dance.

Early-year Celebrations

• Aruba's Carnival: Known for its Antillean "tumba" music and steel bands, Aruba's carnival is a two-month-long celebration featuring a mix of pulsating salsa beats and more.

• Bonaire Carnival: Features music festivals, parades, and the symbolic burning of 'King Mono' to signify the purification before Lent.

• Saint Martin Carnival: Offers a blend of cultures on an island that is both Dutch and French, with festivities that are growing in popularity.

February Festivities

• Trinidad Carnival: The epitome of Caribbean carnivals, attracting international celebrities and renowned for its exuberant celebrations.

• Carnaval de Ponce, Puerto Rico: One of the oldest carnivals in the Western Hemisphere, likened to Rio de Janeiro's festivities.

• Martinique, Haiti Kanaval, Curaçao, Saint Barthélemy, Guadeloupe, Carriacou, Dominica, Guyana Mashramani, and the Dominican Republic Carnival also host their vibrant celebrations in February, each with unique traditions and cultural showcases.

April Celebrations

• Virgin Gorda Easter Festival: A tropical paradise in the British Virgin Islands that heats up for carnival fun around Easter.

• Bacchanal Jamaica: One of the island's biggest carnival events, featuring a mix of Dancehall, Reggae, and traditional carnival celebrations.

• Sint Maarten Carnival: Offers an action-packed experience in a classic Caribbean setting, reflecting the island's mixed culture.

• Ocho Rios Carnival and Saint Thomas Carnival in April: These events feature beach parties, parades, concerts, and are part of Jamaica and the Virgin Islands' vibrant carnival traditions.

Each carnival is a display of the Caribbean's rich cultural heritage, combining music, dance, costumes, and community spirit. Whether you're in the mood for the pulsating rhythms of Trinidad, the historic celebrations of Puerto Rico, or the unique blend of cultures in Saint Martin, there's a carnival experience waiting to be discovered.