The Caribbean is a hotbed for cruise ships, luxury holidaymakers and tourists escaping the winter. Each and every island has its own culture and traditions as well as the paradise-like stretches of coastline. And you’re guaranteed warm weather where you can wear your t-shirt, shorts and flip-flops every day. So whether you want to indulge in one of the Luxury Caribbean getaways or soak up the colonial heritage in Barbados, here are our top destinations for the ultimate getaway.
Barbados
Barbados receives millions of tourists each year from around the globe. Many spend their time in an all-inclusive resort or a beachside villa overlooking the turquoise coast. This island offers some of the most luxurious vacationing experiences. And has dozens of activities to keep you busy throughout your stay. The first stop is usually somewhere around the coast. Spend your days lounging on the sand or in the beachside bars listening to reggae and soca. Rent a jet ski and speed around the warm waters under the clear sky. Or go sea kayaking to find hidden stretches of sand and coves. Away from the beaches, you can get to grips with nature. Barbados has a dense covering of jungle throughout its interior. Jungle trekking and wildlife tours allow tourists to experience the best of the island’s biodiversity. Make a special stop in the capital city Bridgetown to soak up the British colonial heritage too. And take the time to visit one of Barbados’s famous rum distilleries.
Grenada
Grenada in the West Indies combines white-sand beaches with dense rainforests. The tiny island nation has a rich colonial history that oozes in the architecture of capital city St George. And Grenada offers a unique experience found nowhere else in the Caribbean: An underwater sculpture park. Most of the resorts and vacation rentals lie around the coast. Picture yourself waking up next to the tropical Caribbean Sea. Then going for a swim after breakfast before jungle trekking later in the day. Visitors can enjoy cocktails overlooking the coast as reggae plays in the background. This tiny island-nation has a much better safety record compared to some of its neighbouring islands. So you’ll always feel safe and comfortable exploring Grenada independently. We recommend renting a car.
The British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (called BVI by the locals) has a reputation for high-end tourism and luxury. Wealthy holidaymakers have stayed in the tropical paradise since the 1960s. And tourism numbers just keep growing. You’ll find a highly developed tourist infrastructure and dozens of activities at your fingertips. Some prefer renting a private vacation rental on a secluded beach. Others take the chance to explore more of the archipelago. Add in the miles of coral reefs thriving in the shallow waters and the vibrant marine life. But the real highlight of taking a vacation in the British Virgin Islands is that you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. Only a fraction of visitors take their holidays here compared to other islands in the Caribbean. And you’ll probably find that you’re the only person on the beach.
Jamaica
Jamaica is the Caribbean’s most famous tourist destination. The island has a reputation for the world’s finest reggae and stunning beaches. But aside from the resorts, Jamaica is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts. You’ll find several 18-hole courses around the island. These have been rated among the most beautiful in the world. Book yourself a trip and play a round of golf surrounded by the verdant and colourful tropical environment. Then return to the coast or your vacation rental and enjoy a cocktail next to the beach. Other highlights include day trips into Jamaica’s interior. Out in the jungle tourists can follow trails to waterfalls and search for wildlife. Birdwatching tours are recommended to witness the thousands of colourful tropical birds. But as with every island paradise, nothing quite beats returning home after an action-packed day to swing in your beachside hammock.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda has the luxury, but without the masses of tourists. You can find dozens of high-end accommodation overlooking the coast or Mount Obama (also known as Boggy Peak). But unlike some of the other island in the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda have lots of adventure activities. You can go zip lining along 12 lines in the jungle and horseback riding. If you’d prefer isolation and relaxation, book a villa along the coast. Or if you want some outdoor fun, put on your hiking boots and scale Mount Obama. This is the highest point at 400 metres. Trekking up is reasonably easy, and you’ll be rewarded with the most spectacular views of both islands. When you visit, try to visit both Antigua and Barbuda. Each island is different, and you’ll get to see and experience both sides of the island-nation. Regular boats and ferries connect them to each other in a few minutes. Or book a tour which takes you around the must-visit attractions.
A Luxurious Caribbean getaway
If you want the ultimate getaway with as much sun, sea and luxury as you desire, come to the Caribbean. Check out Barbados for its music and colonial heritage. Head to the British Virgin Islands for five-star luxury without the tourists. Check out the golf courses in Jamaica and get the adrenaline pumping in Antigua and Barbuda. Whichever island nation you decide to visit, take the time to explore all parts of its history, heritage and culture. And get away from the beaches to see the natural beauty inland.
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