Photo Credit: Gary Felton via US Virgin Island Department of Tourism. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in the Dominican Republic | Tours in the Dominican Republic. St Kitts. In order to get to this volcanic islands main village of SantAngelo, youll have to take an hour-long ferry from Naples through the Tyrrhenian Sea. On the surface, the private island of Mustique seems like a dream. Jamaica has some of the best food in the Caribbeanjerk lobster costs less than US$10 and is one of the more expensive items on the menu. Trinidad is beloved for its iconic carnival, but sister island Tobago is often overlooked. Read our Privacy Policy. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 500,000 (estimate) / Year 2020: ??? The beaches are beautiful and uncrowded where wild donkeys, goats, and green vervet monkeys roam. She is also the author of several books covering the capital and mid-Atlantic regions. Barbados: Beautiful white sand beach in Turks & Caicos. From islands less than a hundred miles from the North American shoreline to those that feel smack dab in the middle of nowhere, theres no shortage of options when it comes time to pick our next destination. ? As you may expect on a private island, tourists have said they do not feel welcomed. This means that the Puerto Rican economy is highly sensitive to the fluctuations of the world economy. This British territory in the Leeward Islands is considered to be one of the safest Caribbean destinations, its biggest threat being the active Soufrire Hills volcano and hurricanes that roll in between June and November. The local organic produce in Market Square is one of the redeeming qualities though (the cheapest in town). Break in case of a budget emergency. While there are plenty of islands to choose from, Rarotonga is the largest and most visited. If youre looking to lounge on the beach, choose from one of Granadas soft sand beaches. The vendors are "a little too aggressive," and Sosua is very crowded during the weekends. Martinique is also home to a dolphin sanctuary where visitors can enjoy dolphin watching and view several species all year round. Beyond Che Guevara and Guantanamo Bay, there is a fledgling tourism industry in Cuba. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Martinique. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 824,461/ Year 2020: 415,749 Theres so much to do in the US Virgin Islands (USVI), from exhilarating adventures to tranquil relaxation and a host of activities in between. Of course, the earthquakesand poor infrastructure aren't helping, either. Head over to Basse-Terre, home to the Guadeloupe National Park, where the La Soufrire volcano can be found. The islands breathtaking beauty includes three of only seven bioluminescent bays in the world. Even dining off the resort poses a problem, as most of the good restaurants have a strict reservation only policy. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 1,464,399 / Year 2020: 880,404 Jamaica remains the third most visited island in the Caribbean. Not only does it have one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, but this region is also notorious for being a hangout of petty thieves. If you want an island escape, this might just be it. Umbrellas line a tropical beach in the West Indies. To boot, the economy boasts a flourishing financial services industry which accounts for around 15% of GDP. Take an adventurous climb up Mt Nevis or a less intense hike to rainforest waterfalls. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in the US Virgin Islands | Tours in the US Virgin Islands. Nevis, in the Leeward Islands, is one of the Caribbeans best kept secrets. (The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands are not in the Caribbean Sea, but rather in the open North Atlantic Ocean.) Planning tip: Have the concierge hook you up with a local guide. Islands Islands 1,000 km 2 (390 sq mi) and greater. There is only so much snow shoveling you can do before you need a break. The second Island, St. Thomas is one of best Caribbean spots to enjoy sightseeing, snorkeling, diving and shopping. That was the dirtiest, most disgusting island that I had ever been to. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. It's not really the worst, but there are far better areas. Everything in the BVI is so cut and dry and boring and the food is horrible. Come to St Kitts and neighbouring Nevis for the quiet Caribbean life a mellow itinerary of golf, delicious meals and lazy . No hurries, no worries, just relax its no wonder around 30 million people a year head to the Caribbean for a respite. But how good of a beach is it? Cuba also has plenty of museums and art galleries that offer a window into the countrys rich history and culture. Belize, Costa Rica, and Mexico all have Caribbean coasts. The sea isn't too crystal clear and istoo stony - the Caribbean seaweed infestation is a bummer. It seems that these islands are so relaxed their almostcut off from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the world. While we love the soft, sandy beaches of the Caribbean, there's more to the best Caribbean islands than sun and the surf. The crime rate in Montego is taking a toll on tourism, and the traffic is unbearable (the army constantly searches cars), according to a Trip Advisor review. Antigua and Barbuda. 9. It is one of the most boring animals in the ocean and the most uncool squid on the planet. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Tourists are more at risk of petty crimes and pickpocketing than anything. Belize is one of the most exciting up and coming investment locations in the region. Probably not. Food was good but everything else was bad. . Prices vary across the island, and are lower in non-tourist areas. Sure, they have their redeeming qualities, but there are far superior regions like Antigua's Marinas or Virgin Gorda's "Baths.". Unlike most Caribbean islands, it's located outside of Hurricane Alley, making it safe in several senses. Traditionally, St Lucia gained most of its riches from banana cultivation. And Carriacou teems with lively local culture, especially if you visit during Carnival. Tourists are advised to take normal precautions, such as not walking alone, carrying valuable possessions, or leaving anything unattended at the beach. TheNevis Equestrian Centre offers rides that include beaches, trails, and villages. Fill up on jerk pork, chicken, ribs, grilled lobster, fish and conch, and of course peas and rice. In general, this includes many of the Caribbean Islands and tropical regions in North America. The statistic shows the largest island countries and territories in the Caribbean, based on land area. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. But over the past two decades, the one-time modern attraction seems to have lost its luster. One of the Dutch Caribbean islands, Bonaire boasts sparkling beauty. Prepare to be shocked as we debunk the picturesque, postcard-like portraits of the Caribbean islands. Since, however, things have turned around for the island. Most criminal activity here is believed to be gang or drug-related. The Bahamas. Those with a sweet tooth might want to book a tour of theTobago Cocoa Estate. She loves traveling the region in search of the best cultural and foodie adventures, places to stay and live/work opportunities. Waikiki Beach has been described by tourists and locals alike as dirty, overcrowded and stuffed with a plethora of kitschy souvenir shops. There are the islands weve all heard of, and there are the islands we never knew existed. Santa Catalina Island, typically referred to as simply Catalina, is a small island just off the coast of southern California. The Maldives are home to some of the world's most ravishing islands, but it's the sea, which truly makes these islands shine. If youre in chill mode, watch a movie at the alfresco cinema, climb in a hammock along the beach or head to the Bahamas only overwater spa. Soak up the sounds on a Sunday night at the legendary street party,Buccoo Sunday School in Buccoo. Looking to escape the everyday grind with a picture-perfect romantic holiday? Continue to 5 of 20 below. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 1,664,866 / Year 2020: 678,854 Puerto Rico jumps to the second most popular destination in the Caribbean. Historically, most Caribbean islands belonged to a variety of European colonies. Getty Images. Nevis. The fishing is good in these parts too, where barracuda, sailfish, and blue marlin are plentiful. However, in May 2017 two murders occurred within 24 hours, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike. Due to its perfect weather all-year long, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife and tropical flavors, the Caribbean is the best place to escape with your friends for an unforgettable holiday. The cruise port in the Charlotte Amelie, the capital city of St. Thomas is probably the most popular and busiest one in the Caribbean. It's a big commercialized beach. St Kitts & Nevis. The BVI is 59.3 square miles and spread over 1,330 square miles. So what is the best way to explore? Puerto Rico is a little more progressive and commercialized than most of the ads you see on TV. According to the Security Advisory Council, do not travel to parts of Montego Bay and Kingston because there is a serious risk of crime. Part of the British Empire up until 1966, since gaining independence Barbadoshas transformed itself from a low-income economy highly dependent on sugar production, into a well developed economy built on tourism and the offshore sector. Explore 150 of the worlds most enchanting islands in this inspirational coffee table book that features beautiful photography, illustrations and maps. News on all your favorite celebs, reality TV, and movies. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. The idyllic island paradise makes the most of its natural splendour, attracting visitors from all around the world to its sandy shores. Union Island, a kiteboarding haven, has recently emerged as an off-the-radar adventure travel hotspot. With summer approaching, many of us are dreaming of the soft sandy beaches and shining blue shallows promised by sunny Caribbean islands but for some lucky people, these exotic islands are home all ye. Island vacations are something everyone can get behind, from the thrill-seekers to the beach bums. In November of 2011, Trinidad and Tobago was removed from the OECD's list of developing countries. The United States territory ofPuerto Ricois generally safe to visit (especially parts like San Juan Viejo). Youre also in good hands at the Great House restaurant, where the conch fritters, Asian barbecue spareribs, and the coconut green vegetable curry are crowd-pleasers. Sean Pavone/Shutterstock. The smallest of the US Virgin Islands, it lacks the same level of luxury hotels and resorts than its counterparts. Location is everything. Morne Trois Pitons is an active volcano, one of nine in Dominica. 4. Read our, Barbados & Eastern Caribbean 2020 Crime & Safety Report, Crime, Violence, and Development: Trends, Costs, and Policy Options in the Caribbean. Haiti. Vacationing on a luxurious private island in The Maldives. There is much to enjoy as Puerto Rico is an island with old Spanish charm and modern attractions and accommodations. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. A black sand beach on St Kitts (Getty Images) 1. Trek the parks trails with views of mountains and the rainforest. Most locals will suggest Newport Beach Balboa Island instead, which is less crowded and more accessible (Insider). The Dominican Republic is the second largest and most diverse Caribbean country, known for its warm and hospitable people. Probably the best-known Caribbean island, Barbados is a haunt of the rich and famous. On top of that, several reviewers on TripAdvisor note how littered the beaches are. Long Cay is also where youll find tons of Rock Iguanas. An ideal dual-island for luxury holidays, Antigua's economy prospers thanks to its tourism industry. The Bahamas are the most popular cruise islands. If you want to mix education and fun, St. Nicholas Abbey, one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean, is nearby. Backpackers will find plenty of things to do in Cuba. Santorini, Greece has blown up on social media over the last couple of years. Dominican Republic: Beach Day at Hard Rock Hotel Casino Resort Punta Photo Credit: Dominican Republic Tourist Board. The coastline offers abundant activities for the watersport enthusiast, including snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. Tortola is okay but not the best. The beaches are nothing special when compared to the ones in Florida and there are other, more scenic places in the Caribbean. "Police won't do anything," a woman claimed on Trip Advisor as she was verbally assaulted on Magen's Bay beach. Am I right! Possibly one of the most well-known Caribbean islands among Brits, this "paradise island" is actually an archipelago of islands made from coral. Besides the Caribbean islands, there are some great spots on the Caribbean coast of Central America offering good value. South Caicos is typically pretty windy and there are many flat water and bay kiting locations, so kiteboarders will have plenty of reasons to be psyched. TheU.S. Department of State's crime warningswhich take into account the number of crimes and homicides reported to law enforcement agencies per 100,000 inhabitantsare a pretty reliable indication of which islands have lower rates of violent crime. Unfortunately, this overly commercialized Island seems to have lost its charming Caribbean vibe (Trip Advisor). Keep your doors and windows locked, the U.S. Department of State advises, and worry more about the hurricanes that threaten this region during the summer. Then youll have an hour-long bus ride, driving through beautiful fishing villages, hill towns and vineyards (National Geographic). The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola withthe country of Haiti. 1. For related lists, see below. 5. Just missing out on the top spot is Trinidad and Tobago, a twin-island nation with a GDP per capita income of 33, 026. Two unique islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, make up this country that was once known as the gateway to the Caribbean. For a history lesson, theres Hamilton House, the Georgian style building in Charlestown where Alexander Hamilton was born and raised, now the Museum of Nevis History. When hunger calls, you can find everything from a food truck on the beach to fine dining in Sebastians. Activities include everything from deep-sea fishing and kayaking toplaying tennis and cycling. In fact, it is the most crowded of all the Caribbean Islands. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. SAN ANDRS, COLOMBIA. Photo Credit: Cuba Tourist Board. This suggests that despite its growing economy, marked internal inequalities have yet to be resolved. The 290-square-mile island is undergoing a luxury hotel. Puerto Rico is the most competitive economy in Latin America, with an economy primarily driven by the manufacturing industry: 46% of GDP is derived from manufacture. Antigua Antigua offers peace, quiet and 365 gorgeous beaches to boot. Bermuda doesnt have to an overrated experience, but it takes a little more work than other Caribbean Islands to get the most out of it. There are new hot spots like theBLT Steakhouse at the Ritz-Carlton and the uber-luxeMRVL Spafor next-level pampering. Outside of the resort pool and beach areas, going off the resort can be quite expensive, from the transportation to the guided tours. From the iconic pitons of St. Lucia and tropical rainforest of Puerto. Business Insider said it best: everyone stays in Atlantis, but no one seems to actually enjoy it. Nicknamed The nature island of the Caribbean, the thrills are loggerhead turtles, whales, hot springs, boiling lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Antigua and Barbuda. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Aruba | Tours in Aruba. St. Kitts and Nevis: 120,000. Photo Credit: Aruba Tourism Authority. She enjoys uncovering niche culture scenes wherever she goes, and spreading the word about them. Take a thrilling bobsled ride through the forest and go swimming with dolphins in the resort town of Ocho Rios. The third largest Caribbean island, Jamaica is one of the most popular and well-known tourist destinations in the region. Thanks to an endless supply of bloggers and influencers flooding our social media feeds, practically anywhere in the world can look like the most luxurious place weve ever seen. An island of just 10 square . Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Martinique | Tours in Martinique. What's more, since the Caribbean is such an immensely popular destination with cruise lines, you can find, Antigua offers peace, quiet and 365 gorgeous beaches to boot. 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