There are no secret Caribbean resorts, but there are places where you can get away from it all fokkebok / Getty Images, The 8 best under-the-radar places to visit in the Caribbean. New Zealand is a nature-lovers dream, and South Island offers the best of everything to be explored. If you want to enjoy a little privacy, why not try the nearby Cabarete beach instead, where you can enjoy windsurfing and stroll peacefully without vendors trying to harass you. Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is one of the most unique Caribbean islands. All of the island's beaches, including the popular, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. It's 146 miles long and 51 miles wide. #1 The Best Caribbean Island: Cuba Cubans love their cars. The Virgin Islands are one of the most sought after vacation destinations in the Caribbean. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. TripSavvy uses only high-quality, trusted sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Capri is one of those places you go to say you went there, but nothing more. This squid has a dull . For related lists, see below. Dominica. The most manufactured products are pharmaceuticals, electronics, textiles and petrochemicals. "Jamaica 2020 Crime & Safety Report." But over the past two decades, the one-time modern attraction seems to have lost its luster. Check into theMandarin Oriental, Canouan and you may feel like youre in a private-island sanctuary, a secret escape, with just 26 suites and 13 villas on the 1200-acre estate thats on Godahl Beach. Tosh, one of the original Wailers, in reggae music history is not far behind icon Bob Marley. Langkawi is actually known as the place to go to just shop for cheap stuff, not exactly what you think of when picturing a tropical getaway (Travel Triangle). Though this boosts the island's GDP at the moment, reliance on this single crop makes the economy extremely vulnerable to external factors such as natural disasters and plant disease. Most criminal activity here is believed to be gang or drug-related. The 10 Most Visited Caribbean Islands Aruba, Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Jamaica, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Things To Do, Top 10, Turks & Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands Ursula Petula Barzey November 8, 2022 The 290-square-mile island is undergoing a luxury hotel. The 25 most popular Caribbean islands get that way because they have unique attractions that increase their appeal. St Kitts & Nevis. However, since achieving independence and/or autonomy, many Caribbean islands have managed to establish themselves competitively in the world economy. More than 50 countries across the world host Carnival, but it's in Latin America and the Caribbean that you will find its beating heart. Business Insider said it best: everyone stays in Atlantis, but no one seems to actually enjoy it. The local organic produce in Market Square is one of the redeeming qualities though (the cheapest in town). Here are eight of the best. In November of 2011, Trinidad and Tobago was removed from the OECD's list of developing countries. Accessible only by yacht, propeller plane, or ferry, this exclusive island is known for being a party destination for the rich and famous. Sure, they have their redeeming qualities, but there are far superior regions like Antigua's Marinas or Virgin Gorda's "Baths.". According to some forums on the net, particularly Fodor's, Aruba is an overrated region. All 28 Caribbean Countries, Ranked (and What to Do in Each) By Melody Wren and Mariana Zapata, updated on April 18, 2022. It offers a gorgeous array of mountains, hot springs, waterfalls and fresh water lakes which have earned it the enticing nickname of 'Nature Isle of the Caribbean'. The two volcanic peaksGros Piton and Petit Pitonare the most iconic landmarks on the island, and visitors can enjoy them in a variety of ways. Getting to redhook was a relief. The New York Post named this uber popular destination one of the most overrated travel spots on the planet. If youre into snorkeling, Grenada offers over 30 dive sites. 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. Cuba: Palacio de Valle. "Crime, Violence, and Development: Trends, Costs, and Policy Options in the Caribbean." It seems that these islands are so relaxed their almost, The Tate Way: Here's How Internet Sensation Andrew Tate Earns And Spends His Fortune, 8 Outrageous Ways Joel Osteen Spends His Massive $100 Million Fortune, The Spielberg Way: 10 Ways Steven Spielberg Earns & Spends His Billions, Sylvester Stallone And Jennifer Flavin Canceled Their Divorce And Reconcile Their Marriage, The 10 Most Expensive Superyachts In The World, As Of 2022, Emancipation Will Smiths Apple Thriller Get Its First Screening, She May Be Engaged! Come to St Kitts and neighbouring Nevis for the quiet Caribbean life a mellow itinerary of golf, delicious meals and lazy . Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 892,997 / Year 2020: 445,879 The beautiful island chain of The Bahamas is a haven for relaxation, and its sun-drenched beaches are among the worlds best. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Nicknamed The nature island of the Caribbean, the thrills are loggerhead turtles, whales, hot springs, boiling lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Possibly one of the most well-known Caribbean islands among Brits, this "paradise island" is actually an archipelago of islands made from coral. Bananas alone account for more than 60% of the work force, and 50% of merchandise exports. For those who decide to take guided tours, most reviewers on TripAdvisor found them overpriced and cheesy (Trip Advisor). Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit Aruba Turks & Caicos Cayman Islands St. Maarten Barbados St. Lucia Anguilla Martinique St. Barts Bonaire The Virgin Islands Grenada St. Kitts and Nevis Antigua and Barbuda The Bahamas Caribbean Packing Essentials FAQ: Safest Islands in the Caribbean Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit Aruba The famous pink sand beaches, like Elbow Beach and Horseshoe Bay, are quite crowded in peak season, making them difficult to enjoy. Many travelers also tell similar stories of street vendors everywhere, who dont seem to take no for an answer (Trip Advisor). As a result, the island has had to turn towards other industries. !. For this list, were exploring the best and the worst of island vacation destinations. Snorkeling is the most popular water activity on the island, and the crowds of people practically swimming on top of one of another proves it (Trip Advisor). Islands Islands 1,000 km 2 (390 sq mi) and greater. "The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality," the U.S. Department of State says. Poor in natural resources however, the island is very dependent on exterior trade with the US, Ireland and Japan for materials. Best Overall: Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth. After a week here, you might actually be excited to go back to work (Trip Advisor). Best Caribbean Islands to Visit: Antigua and Barbuda Source: Sean Pavone/Unsplash Antigua and Barbuda are the islands you've been dreaming of. While the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas are hot spots, the Caribbean is also home to locales without hordes of tourists and some where there is more wildlife than people. "Police won't do anything," a woman claimed on Trip Advisor as she was verbally assaulted on Magen's Bay beach. TheNevis Equestrian Centre offers rides that include beaches, trails, and villages. Roberto Moiola / Getty. With his expertise in the literary field and passion for the arts, he aims to give back to the community of like-minded individuals and introduce more people to the arts. 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. Ursula Petula Barzey is an award-winning digital content creator and founder of Caribbean & Co. She is passionate about all things related to the Caribbean especially Montserrat from which her family hails! Nassau Ocho Rios Monte Carlo Halifax Ketchikan Flam Bahrain Nassau Nassau, Bahamas (Photo: alarico/Shutterstock) If you read the Cruise Critic forums, you'll soon learn that many veteran sailors. With its stunning scenery and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean is one of the world's . Bountiful palm trees complement the turquoise waters of popular Punta Cana to create the perfect postcard from this tropical destination. ? For a unique golfing experience, play on Bonaires natural golf desert course (where wild goats and donkeys roam). 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. Dominican Republic: Beach Day at Hard Rock Hotel Casino Resort Punta Photo Credit: Dominican Republic Tourist Board. The Caribbean island of Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti towards its West and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region known for its lavish and stunning resorts, pristine and beautiful beaches, and amazing golfing premises. The Caribbean, long referred to as the West Indies, includes more than 7,000 islands; of those, 13 are independent island countries ( shown in red on the map ), and some are dependencies or overseas territories of other nations. You'll hear great music in the birthplace of the steel pan drum. Rachel Cooper is a travel writer who has lived in the Washington, D.C., area for more than 25 years. This 300 acre private Caribbean island is located just off the coast of Antigua. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. Cuba also has plenty of museums and art galleries that offer a window into the countrys rich history and culture. However, the island remains a key exporter of spices, and is the second biggest exporter of nutmeg in the world. One of the most popular is Captain Bills Blue Hole inBlue Holes National Park. Few places compare to the Caribbean when it comes to sun, sea, sand and surf. Nature lovers will want to hike to the 301-acre Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve, home to some 400 species of fish and endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Iguanas, parrots, and other critters call Bonaire home, andGotomeer is a saltwater lagoon on the islands northern end where youll see flamingos. Snorkeling in lagoons and hiking up Mt. Planning tip: If after all that peace and solitude you want to liven things up a little, Negril is an hour away. Here are the top 10 most visited Caribbean islands, which account for 85% of visitors to the Caribbean region. While not a hopeless case, parts of the beach need rehabilitation, including some of the local businesses that overcharge for simple amenities. You can dive into the worlds third-largest barrier reef system in the Turks and Caicos and visit the worlds only Conch Farm. Get Updates And Stay Connected to the latest offers and news from the Caribbean. Read on to find out why, and to learn more about this year's top 25 islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. Roseau, the capital city of the Caribbean island of Dominica, is located on the nation's southwest coast and is distinct for its 18th-century Creole architecture, image by NAPA. Bahamas: Exuma Swimming with Pigs. Read our, Barbados & Eastern Caribbean 2020 Crime & Safety Report, Crime, Violence, and Development: Trends, Costs, and Policy Options in the Caribbean. islands, reefs, islets and cays, the Caribbean promises a variety of treasures both on and off its shores. And with a limited amount of easily accessible coastline (about 13 kilometers), the crowds at up quickly. Almost all of the Caribbean islands are in the Caribbean Sea, with only a few in inland lakes. When you think Jamaica, Montego Bay and Negril probably come to mind. The rooms need updating, the food is expensive, and the attractions are only so-so.. The keys dont boast a ton of family-friendly options, nor does it offer a lively nightlife or culinary scene for singles. 1. 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Many people will mention popular islands such as The Bahamas, Jamaica, The Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, but there are others throughout the region that are just as beautiful and adventurous. Its approximately an hour-long ferry ride, which will set you back $73.50. Grenada has honed in on the rising demand for eco-tourism and provides a series of eco-friendly guesthouses. Umbrellas line a tropical beach in the West Indies. Getty Images. Nevis, in the Leeward Islands, is one of the Caribbeans best kept secrets. It is also the area of the world that gets hit by hurricanes more often than other areas. If youre looking to lounge on the beach, choose from one of Granadas soft sand beaches. There's nothing special about Pigeon Point's beach, aside from the Carnival after-parties. The vibe on this island is laid-back, and it is a location that evades many people's radar as it is so understated. It is known as being a haven for diving and snorkeling because of the reefs surrounding the island. Keeps Mexico and Several Caribbean Islands on Travel Advisory List, 2020 Travel Warnings for Countries in Africa, 16 Cheapest Islands in the World to Visit. Travel Lemming describes it as one of the most overpriced, overcrowded and overrated travel destinations on the planet., It seems that most tourists feel the same way across the board, with one reviewer on TripAdvisor warning if you expect to see the most wonderful, spectacular, romantic place in the world then you will probably be very disappointed.. The island is also pretty spread out, so youll have to learn how to use the public transportation system to get from one side of the island to the other. Dominica has many nooks and crannies you might not discover on your own. Is Belize Safe? The Bahamas are the most popular cruise islands. The volcanic island is home to swift waterfalls, winding . Adventure seekers have abundant activities to choose from, including hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, diving, snorkeling, and kitesurfing. While that will entertain you for a few hours, this small island doesnt have much else to offer. But how good of a beach is it? 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. For this list, were exploring the best and the worst of island vacation destinations. Grenada. The vendors are "a little too aggressive," and Sosua is very crowded during the weekends. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Cuba | Tours in Cuba. 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. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved five Caribbean island destinations into its highest-risk travel category for Covid-19 on Monday. St. Kitts and Nevis: 120,000. According to the 2020 Crime and Safety Report for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, which covers Antigua and Barbuda, this region had 12 reported homicides and two kidnappings per 100,000 inhabitants. Here, tortoises outnumber people. "I've spent the past 6 months telling everyone not to go here," an angry tourist wrote on Trip Advisor. Vacationing on a luxurious private island in The Maldives. There are also many land-based options, such as horseback riding and hiking. Dominica is one of the best Caribbean islands for adventure, with a mostly unspoiled natural landscape begging to be explored. Barbados: Beautiful white sand beach in Turks & Caicos. Some things are worth waiting for. Philip Galeno is a copywriter, transcriber, blogger, aspiring poet and artist from New Zealand. High unemployment rates, a lack of economic development, and drug trafficking have made parts of this region susceptible to crime, violence, and gang activity. Read our Privacy Policy. It's a big commercialized beach. The British government states that "although most visits to the BVI are trouble-free, serious incidents, including armed robbery, do occur." It's "extremely crowded," one reviewer on Trip Advisor recalled. Havana is well known for its lively entertainment featuring jazz, Latin music, dance, and copious amounts of rum-flavored drinks. Shopping is also a major attraction of the USVI, thanks to a $1,600 duty-free allowance. Other sizable islands include Hispaniola, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago. Island vacations are something everyone can get behind, from the thrill-seekers to the beach bums. The Bahamas is also the third richest country in the Americas, following the United States and Canada. Historically, most Caribbean islands belonged to a variety of European colonies. Grand Cayman. This native only to an island of Madagascar in Africa species lives a lazy and boring life. News on all your favorite celebs, reality TV, and movies. The following list has been drawn up according to data collected by the World Bank estimating the GDP per capita of each island between 2009 and 2013. The island of Grenada boasts all of the same great qualities of any other Caribbean island with about a third of the crowds. Visit Iguana Island and the aquarium, a protected reef ideal for snorkeling, and get a glimpse of local life in old town Cockburn. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in the Dominican Republic | Tours in the Dominican Republic. Looking to escape the everyday grind with a picture-perfect romantic holiday? St. Vincent and . Trek the parks trails with views of mountains and the rainforest. Second line parades are a key part of New Orleans' culture. Long Cay is also where youll find tons of Rock Iguanas. However, visitors in recent years have complained of how overrated the small island has become. 15 Overrated Islands Crowds Flock To (And 10 We'd Actually Recommend), Overrated: Mustique Island, Saint Vincent & The Grenadines, in our dreams: Cocoa Island, The Maldives, overrated:Grand Cayman, the Cayman Islands, Overrated: Santa Catalina Island, California. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 356,470 / Year 2020: 1,085,920 Tourists from around the world are drawn to the mystique of Cuba, an island that boasts a pristine coastline, an abundance of parks, and several UNESCO natural reserves. The advantage though is you don't have to pay a fortune to live here. Explore 150 of the worlds most enchanting islands in this inspirational coffee table book that features beautiful photography, illustrations and maps. Tortola is okay but not the best. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Here are 12 reasons why Aruba is the best destination for your next Caribbean vacation 1. There are 13 sovereign states and 17 dependent territories in the Caribbean, and the predominant languages are English, Spanish, French, Dutch and . Outside Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic offers abundant aquamarine adventures at Baha de las guilas and the Saman Peninsula. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Aruba | Tours in Aruba. Santa Catalina Island, typically referred to as simply Catalina, is a small island just off the coast of southern California. 1. What to Know Before You Visit, Travel to the Caribbean: A Reopening Timeline, Country by Country, U.S. With its serene, laidback atmosphere, pristine waters, and rich, vibrant culture, the Bahamas is perfect for a quick weekend getaway or an extended tropical vacation. Tourists are advised to take normal precautions, such as not walking alone, carrying valuable possessions, or leaving anything unattended at the beach. Dine at The Rocks that sits 300m (1000ft) above sea level on the grounds of theGolden Rock Inn, where you can enjoy magnificent sea views, cascading ponds, and lush gardens. From the powdery white sand beaches to the radiant blue waters, youll marvel at the wonder of this magical archipelago. "Assault or Homicide." Do they live up to the hype? Note: Originally published on September 10th, 2014, this post was updated on November 8th, 2022. Surprisingly, these Caribbean destinations fall short of expectations, as evidenced by real (disappointed) tourist photos. It's a friendly spot where the music is pumping. Most hotels are not walking distance to the town center either, making getting around difficult. TheBritish Virgin Islands(BVI) consist of Tortola (the largest and most inhabited island), Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, andmore than 50 smaller islands and cays. There is much to enjoy as Puerto Rico is an island with old Spanish charm and modern attractions and accommodations. The walks here aren't bad, you just have to remember that they drive on the left and to try to hug the shoulder. However, in May 2017 two murders occurred within 24 hours, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike. Whether a family vacation or a romantic getaway, these mesmerizing islands provide many options to create perfect memories. The service industry currently accounts for an estimated 75% of GDP, highlighting how crucial the tourist industry has been to St Kitts and Nevis's economy. The Caribbean's greatest known depth is Cayman Trench (Bartlett Deep) between Cuba and Jamaica, approximately 25,216 feet (7,686 metres) below sea level. Montserrat is nicknamed the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean both for its terrain and the heritage of its inhabitants. The manufacturing industry also plays an important role in sustaining the economy, as well as the tourism industry (the latter less so than most Caribbean islands). Approximately 69% of the island's GDP emanates from the service industry. And if youre looking to take in local culture, explore the capital city of St. George, which US News named the most beautiful harbor town in the Caribbean (US News Travel). Two unique islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, make up this country that was once known as the gateway to the Caribbean. (Langkawi Info). These are the best. Basseterre's crime rate is still soaring to new heights (it was named the most violent city in 2011). If you're planning a winter vacation, here are 13 lesser-known Caribbean islands to consider. Put simply, he is one cool son of a gun. Besides being insanely crowded most of the time, Horseshoe Bay Beach has dangerous riptides. Answer 11 of 24: Hello: I'm considering visiting the Cayman Islands but it doesn't seem like it's much to do here? Aruba: Family At Butterfly Farm. In 2009 the island's economy was hit hard by the economic recession which decreased the number of visitors to the island but in past years tourism has picked up again: in 2013, it accounted for approximately 60% of GDP and 40% of investments. St. Barts, short for Saint Barthlemy, has been anoverseas collectivityof France since 2007. Famous Maui Beach has also failed to live up to the hype, which has been described as boring and much smaller than expected (Trip Advisor). 1. St. Lucia. But that amount of attention has started to tarnish this once low-key Greek isle. The United States territory ofPuerto Ricois generally safe to visit (especially parts like San Juan Viejo). But dont let filters and good angles fool you, many of these destinations may leave you underwhelmed. It also exports cocoa, bananas and citrus fruits. Its exclusive west coast is where you'll find some of the best hotels, and best restaurants too - The Cliff and La Mer are both easily reached for a spot of lunch, although it's advisable to book in high season (February/March). January 25, 2021, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. And Buck Island Reef National Monument, located 1.5 miles off St. Croix's northeast coast, offers even more excellent hiking and snorkeling. Being insanely crowded most of the world economy, Jamaica, Montego Bay and Negril probably come to mind will! Islands belonged to a $ 1,600 duty-free allowance check Rates and Availability for: in! Studies, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike duty-free allowance complained! Confused with the US, Ireland and Japan for materials to support the facts within our articles options the... 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