The Covid-19 pandemic has changed a lot about the travel industry. But what hasn’t changed is the world’s love affair with the beautiful islands of the Caribbean. After all, who doesn’t need a break every now and then?
After working hard for years, it’s natural to want to relax at a beautiful beach. Somewhere with crystal blue waters of the ocean where you can unwind from the stress of life.
The problem is that many beach destinations tend to cost more than an average break away. This makes the idea of a dream vacation on a paradise island just that. A dream. But what if I told you that there are places you can visit without breaking the bank?
Travel Destinations in the Caribbean
A trip to the Caribbean is probably on your next vacation plan. That’s if you’re in search of some sunny beaches and the relaxing sound of waves. Many people prefer the Caribbean due to its accessibility to beaches. But do you know where exactly to visit when you go to the Caribbean? Let’s explore.
1. Grenada
What draws people to Grenada are the experiences they’ll have on the island. That’s besides the memorable imagery of beautiful beaches they have. But where exactly is Grenada located? This magnificent country is located between Trinidad and Tobago, Saint Vincent, and the Grenadines.
This perfect vacation getaway is known and loved for its wide variety of spices. You’ll find spices like nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and a lot more. Grenada is also known for its world-class cocoa and majestic waterfalls.
Let’s also not forget that it has the world’s first underwater sculpture park. Here are some more considerations if you plan to visit Grenada:
- Beaches. They are the reason most people visit the Caribbean, and Grenada is no exception. Grande Anse beach, for instance, offers two miles of white sand and turquoise waters. You’ll also find a lot of restaurants, bars, and fun activities on the beach. There is also the BBC beach nearby that’s smaller but as picturesque as Grenada Anse.
- Nature. Grenada’s beautiful topography will offer you a chance to explore natural sites. And, spend your holiday being active. You can’t afford to miss the natural reserves and waterfalls on your visit. You and your family can hike through the Grand Etang national park. You can also visit nearby islands like the sandy island marine park. The island is popular for snorkeling and observing marine life.
- Culture. Grenada has an incredibly rich culture and many historic sites. Attendance at the festivals on the island will give you a glimpse into Grenada’s traditions. You wouldn’t want to miss the Spicemas Grenada Carnival Festival, for instance. This festival peaks in August every year and will leave you amazed by the Grenadian culture.
Street dances and extravagant outfits make up the experience of the colorful festival. There is also the second, smaller carnival that happens at the beginning of the lent period. It takes place on the tiny island of Carriacou.
- The food. No visit to Grenada is complete without trying their delicious food. Their cuisine is a perfect mix of healthy and hearty foods. Oil down is one of the national dishes. Its stew is made with coconut milk, chicken, meat, or fish with roots and other vegetables.
You can also try something lighter like the callaloo soup made with leafy greens. If you like spicy foods, you can go for a roti filled with curried chicken and goat. Surely, tasty food can be found everywhere.
And if you loved the place so much, here’s some good news for you. Grenada is one of the countries that offer citizenship by investment. Dual citizenship by investment requires that you make economic contributions to the country. It’s the process of acquiring the second citizenship of a country through investment.
Obtaining a government-approved asset will also earn you Grenada citizenship by investment. Buy, you’ll have to be subject to stringent vetting and due diligence processes. That includes thorough background checks.
With such an opportunity, you will be able to easily enter this heavenly place without much hassle. You will also be able to enjoy a citizen’s benefits.
2. Saint Lucia
St.Lucia is a British commonwealth country. This destination is located on the Caribbean island, off the coast of Central America.
Tourism is important in the economy of St. Lucia. Its tropical paradise is a good honeymoon destination. The place has posh resorts that are extremely relaxing too. The Cap Maison Resort and spa, for instance, resemble a Mediterranean Cliffside hotel. It has an ocean view villa suite with a pool and roof terrace.
St.Lucia is also known for its clean beaches. Some of the beaches are covered in black volcanic sand and the island’s temperature averages 800 F all year. The island has many water adventures, from jet skiing to parasailing. No wonder many vacationers prefer most of their time here.
St.Lucia has a lot of activities that tourists can take advantage of. It’s also a desirable island for driving trips and snorkeling excursions. It has a quiet natural beauty and nightlife.
3. Puerto Rico
This is one of the best vacation getaways in the Caribbean. That’s because there are a lot of flights to the island. The country also has beautiful beaches, museums, historic UNESCO sites, and fun activities. Oh, and there are excellent dining options with vibrant nightlife too.
Puerto Rico’s clear-water beaches are amazing for families. As a tourist, you’ll enjoy the secluded island of Vieques, which is a quiet place for couples. Because of Puerto Rico’s size, you don’t have to drive long distances to explore great beaches. You can explore as many as 20 beaches in one week at a relaxed pace.
You get to select the beaches, beginning with secluded and quiet ones, to the Miami beach style. You can also settle for world-class surfing beaches with a casual island life vibe.
This beautiful country is also very kind to foreigners looking to invest. Puerto Rico’s government allows investors to acquire the best citizenship by investment. This citizenship enables you to enjoy a zero tax rate on some interests.
4. Bahamas
Are you planning a trip to the Caribbean and don’t know where exactly to visit? Or, what to expect? How about I tell you about the Bahamas?
This country’s best-kept secret is its sheer size and diversity. The Bahamas is an unmatched destination with 16 astonishing major islands. And each of the islands is unique in its own way. They offer different types of attractions and you can choose any based on your interests. You can think of the differences in terms of islands having various principal themes.
You can choose a secluded island free of tourist crowds, to enjoy the sun and beaches like Abaco Island. It gives you a chance to do some excellent snorkeling in crystal clear water in exclusivity. You can also explore the unique Bahamian village lifestyle. Where golf carts are the main form of transport on the road.
If you’re a scuba diving freak, how about a dive at a blue hole like in Exuma cays angelfish? Here, you’ll experience one of the most colorful marine life in the world. You can also visit Bimini Island for a shark dive where you’ll see mammoth hammerhead sharks.
It might interest you to know that foreign investors in the Bahamas are eligible for second citizenship by investment. It gives you and your dependents the right to live and work in the Bahamas. Note that the Bahamian laws don’t recognize dual citizenship by investment. To become a Bahamian, you’ll have to renounce your first nationality.
The investment passport comes with benefits like visa-free access to the United States. You’ll also enjoy a high quality of life and access to healthcare and the education system.
5. Jamaica
Jamaica is well-known for being the birthplace of reggae and jerk. But that’s not all because there are many more sides to this Caribbean island. Jamaica is home to some of the best beaches and has eye-widening natural sites. Some of the natural sites include waterfalls and lagoons. They also produce one of the rarest coffees in the world.
The island is a popular destination and there are frequent flights to the country. The seven Mile beach in Negril is where many people spend part of their vacation.
Jamaica is also a beautiful island for travelers who love being active. Dunn’s River Falls is one of the breathtaking waterfalls. There are also guided excursions to the Blue Mountains national park.
6. Antigua
Antigua is a travel destination that shouldn’t be left off your bucket list. The island has spectacular white sand beaches, blue seas, and beautiful scenery.
If you perk up at the phrase “tropical paradise,” visit and explore Antigua’s 365 beautiful beaches. The beaches range from calm, shallow waters that are nice spots for swimming to deep waters that’s ideal for snorkeling.
Dickenson bay is one of the popular beaches for relaxing. For those who prefer secluded beaches, the tucked-away sands at Hawksbill are ideal. The other reason why Antigua is the best place to visit is its numerous non-beach activities.
For a panoramic view of the island, you can hike to the top of Shirley heights. This will enable you to even see the Montserrat volcano. Another fun activity would be going to St. John’s Saturday market. You’ll be able to purchase some unique souvenirs, from spices to crafts.
If you’re ready to visit Antigua, you should know that the weather is something to marvel at. The island has relatively low humidity. This means that travelers find Antigua’s weather more enjoyable compared to other destinations.
Antigua’s food is also spectacular. It’s the perfect destination if you want to have a taste of snapper, wahoo, rock lobster, and grouper. Antigua will serve you some of the most delicious sea foods. If you’re eating authentic local cuisine, the sea food will be served spicy and tasty.
7. Saint Martin Island
This is a dual owned island with one side being French and the other side Dutch. Compared to other destinations, the island of St. Martin is a bit more active with tourists.
Saint Martin’s beaches are tranquil and plentiful. So you can try a new one every day of your vacation. Some of the popular beaches are Orient bay, Mulley bay, and Cupecoy beach. But note that there are a lot more beaches to make you enjoy your vacation.
There are many non-beach activities such as ziplining near the pic du Pardis Mountains. There is also snorkeling and sailing.
The best time to visit this wonderful island is in May and June or between November and mid-December. These selected periods are times when hotels in the country advertise the best rates. The problem with these periods is the weather because it’s the time when rain showers are less likely.
Summer and early fall aren’t the best for a vacation. Also, many hotels close during these periods and hurricanes are likely to happen. Avoid visiting during winter and early spring because that’s when St. Martin milks its tourists.
Final Take Away
We could have given you more travel destinations to visit in the Caribbean but we choose these four. There are more than enough reasons to visit these destinations.
Whatever your passion is, the Caribbean gives you multiple perfect reasons to visit. You don’t need an excuse to visit wonderful places. The fact that it’s an amazing destination is reason enough to pack your bags and go.
