How to enjoy the best of what the Caribbean Islands have to offer

The Caribbean is a destination which has been getting noticed as a prominent tourist hub in recent years. It has been added to the bucket-list vacation spot by many travellers, especially those who love nature and enjoy beach-based excursions.  However, did you know that it is possible to visit several of the islands during the span you are in this region easily? Read on to uncover all the details and place yourself in several of these 26 tropical island nations.

An overview of the destination 

Made up of more than 700 islands, cays and reefs set in the Caribbean Sea, the Caribbean Islands are a huge archipelago which has been positioned between North and South America. 13 sovereign states and 17 dependent territories, which have ties with nations like the US, UK, the Netherlands and France, make up this region. They have been positioned to resemble an arc. They are known as the point which separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Caribbean Sea. 

The nations belonging to this region are The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, Barbados, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago.

When to engage in your vacation 

Wondering when it is best to place your Caribbean Island adventure? The peak dry season is the most appropriate, as there is low rainfall and low humidity. This falls between mid-December and April. This is the time when festivals and parades will take to the streets in this area. Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago especially host colourful carnivals. Bacchanal Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and the Tobago Jazz Festival are some of which you need to keep an eye out for. 

However, if you are hoping to have a low-budget holiday, it is best to visit these islands during the shoulder season, from May to July. This way, you can be assured that fewer crowds will be at the tourist attractions, flight tickets will be cheaper, and accommodation prices too will be more affordable.   

Navigating the island country 

There are quite a number of travel options available to head from one island to another. The best and quickest means of visiting each destination is taking regional flights. You can locate Caribbean flights flying to such airbases from a significant number of cities across the Caribbean. InterCaribbean Airways operates between 28 cities in 17 nations within this archipelago. This is a choice you can consider if you like to engage in island-hopping adventures. 

If the islands are close to each other, like those belonging to the Virgin Islands, you might even be able to take public ferry rides to visit those. These are much more affordable and also provide enjoyable and scenic rides across the ocean. Water taxis, too, can be found. You need to check their schedules if you are considering taking any of them. 

Exciting activities to engage there

The Caribbean Islands are a place where lush beauty can be found. Therefore, this is a paradise for nature lovers and environmentalists as they can have the time of their life exploring its stunning wilderness. Hike through the rainforest and visit nature’s wonders such as majestic cascades and scenic viewpoints. You can delve into mystery by exploring hidden gems like the Cayman Crystal Caves in the Cayman Islands or the Natural Pool in Aruba. 

Since these destinations are surrounded by water, you are sure to encounter thrilling watersports. These include snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing, kayaking and deep-sea fishing. Do not forget to sample some popular dishes which have African, Indian, European and indigenous influences.  Jerk chicken (grilled chicken), Ackee and saltfish (made from ackee and salted cod), Conch (snail-based dish) and dishes made from plantains can be included in the list.