Best Caribbean Islands

Jamaica promises an explosion of colour, music and spice. It is, after all, the home of jerk chicken, rum and Bob Marley. This large island has three main resort areas, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril. Laze away the days on some of the best beaches in the world (Doctor's Cave Beach is a must) before heading to the spectacular Dunn’s River Falls, the Green Grotto Caves or the Bob Marley museum in Kingston. Later, kick back with rum cocktails while listening to the sound of reggae rhythms and steel drums.

Travelling on a budget or prefer a touch of luxury? Both are possible in Barbados. Whatever your travel style, don't miss the so-called Platinum Coast where alluring beaches such as Alleynes Bay are lapped by calm waters. You might even catch a glimpse of turtles sporting in the crystal-clear waters. Pop into Bridgetown, the island's vibrant capital and tour the distilling tanks of Mount Gay, Barbados’s world-famous rum. Then dine on freshly caught fish topped with hot scotch bonnets.

The Bahamas is one of the most picturesque destinations in the Caribbean, thanks to its many beautiful white and pink sand beaches. Watersport junkies can sail, dive and snorkel while party animals can enjoy all that the nightlife has to offer with lively bars and clubs. Interestingly, the Bahamas was once the haunt of buccaneers and pirates. Their legacy can be seen in Fort Charlotte or the Pirates of Nassau Museum.

Miles of pristine beaches including beautiful Punta Cana guarantee lazy stress-free days in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana resorts are perfect for honeymoon bliss but adventures await as well. Hike in the Sierra de Bahoruco, surf at Cabarete, whale watch from the Samaná Península, raft on the Yaque del Norte River or paraglide over the Jarabacoa valleys. Take time to enjoy Santo Domingo's heritage where architecture stretches back to the 16th century. After sunset, dip into a nightlife scene of bachata music.

Staying in Martinique brings a touch of Gallic joie de vivre to your Caribbean holiday. The slopes of smouldering Mont Pelée sweep down through rainforests to the north while to the south are gorgeous beaches such as Anse Michel and Anse des Salines. Life in much of Martinique is lived at a sedate pace but the capital Fort-de-France adds a buzz to island life with its history and culture.

Still somewhat off the beaten track, Cuba is a blend of lively music, retro Cadillacs, and natural beauty. During the day, wander Havana’s Spanish-style streets, visit Trinidad and Remedios or laze away sunny hours on beaches such as Cayo Coco or Playa Varadero. After dark, find a small local bar to tango and samba the night away while drinking Cuban rum.

Grenada, nicknamed the Spice Isle, is a foodie's delight. Laze away the day on glorious beaches (Morne Rouge Beach or Grand Anse Beach are two of the best), dine on the freshest seafood and take tours of nutmeg, spice and chocolate factories. Food and festivals often go hand in hand and Grenada is no exception. The best is the Carnival Spicemas Festival in August, a colourful medley of music, parties and street food. Explore the heritage of the capital St George or get away from it all with a hike in the Grand Etang National Park.

Guadeloupe is the true tropics with lush rainforest interiors and exotic beaches fringed by palm trees. It is butterfly-shaped, made up of two islands, Grande Terre and Basse Terre that are joined by man-made bridges. French influence is strong here, reflected in the chic shops of Grande Terre and the seriously good food found throughout the island. Grand Terre is busier with family-friendly beaches such as Caravel while the larger Basse Terre is a wild region of mountains and waterfalls perfect for adventurous escapes.