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. millions of visitors to the Caribbean region, 26 Sandals Resorts International Properties For Your All-Inclusive Luxury Caribbean Vacation. And more importantly, which of these do you plan to visit next? Then youll have an hour-long bus ride, driving through beautiful fishing villages, hill towns and vineyards (National Geographic). There is only so much snow shoveling you can do before you need a break. Ocho Rios would be a safer choice (with its 180m tall waterfalls and lagoons) and is just an hour away from Montego Bay. So what is the best way to explore? Fly into Providenciales and take a 30-minute flight to South Caicos. Break in case of a budget emergency. Here are the top 10 most visited Caribbean islands, which account for 85% of visitors to the Caribbean region. Over-the-water bungalows in the Maldives. Tourists are more at risk of petty crimes and pickpocketing than anything. While that will entertain you for a few hours, this small island doesnt have much else to offer. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Puerto Rico | Tours in Puerto Rico. With its seemingly endless white-sand beaches, the Dominican Republic is a popular getaway for tourists searching for an idyllic vacation, plenty of outdoor adventure, and a tinge of colonial history. When in The Bahamas, try the famous conch salad and craft beer from the Pirate Republic Brewery. 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. 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. However, in response to a change in European Union banana trade preferences, Dominica has placed emphasis on the production of coffee, aloe vera, exotic fruits and manufactured soaps to remain competitive on the export market. Antigua and Barbuda. There are 13 sovereign states and 17 dependent territories in the Caribbean, and the predominant languages are English, Spanish, French, Dutch and . Nine of New Zealands national parks are located here, offering a virtually unlimited supply of trails for biking, walking and hiking. The Dominican Republic is the second largest and most diverse Caribbean country, known for its warm and hospitable people. Parrot fish, brain coral, Sergent majors. From luxury getaways to affordable adventure trips and festivals, each Caribbean destination offers travelers its unique culture and appeal. Do they live up to the hype? The U.S. Department of State warns against traveling to troubled spots like Spanish Town and parts of Montego Bay or Kingston, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Island hop across cosmopolitan archipelagos and secret tropical paradises, discover fascinating stories about each destination, meet locals, encounter wildlife and find amazing island experiences. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The Aruban People One of the main reasons why people are drawn to this small Southern Caribbean island is the people. Puerto Rico: 16th-century citadel in San Juan named Castillo San Felipe del Morro. It's a friendly spot where the music is pumping. There's nothing special about Pigeon Point's beach, aside from the Carnival after-parties. When you think Jamaica, Montego Bay and Negril probably come to mind. The Bahamas soars to the top of our list thanks to its prosperous tourism industry. Langkawi, an archipelago on Malaysias west coast, has gotten a lot of hype recently for turquoise waters, picturesque beaches and jungle-clad hills. It is known as being a haven for diving and snorkeling because of the reefs surrounding the island. Outside of the resort pool and beach areas, going off the resort can be quite expensive, from the transportation to the guided tours. Backpackers will find plenty of things to do in Cuba. Outside Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic offers abundant aquamarine adventures at Baha de las guilas and the Saman Peninsula. The former French islands of Guadeloupe are a fascinating archipelago of 5 islands well known for their distinctive Creole culture, cuisine, and celebrations. Currently, the island has the third largest stock exchange in the Caribbean region. Planning tip: Have the concierge hook you up with a local guide. Planning tip: If after all that peace and solitude you want to liven things up a little, Negril is an hour away. Even dining off the resort poses a problem, as most of the good restaurants have a strict reservation only policy. Sure, they have their redeeming qualities, but there are far superior regions like Antigua's Marinas or Virgin Gorda's "Baths.". The BVI is 59.3 square miles and spread over 1,330 square miles. But that amount of attention has started to tarnish this once low-key Greek isle. Santa Catalina Island, typically referred to as simply Catalina, is a small island just off the coast of southern California. #1 The Best Caribbean Island: Cuba Cubans love their cars. The idyllic island paradise makes the most of its natural splendour, attracting visitors from all around the world to its sandy shores. It's 146 miles long and 51 miles wide. This is your guide to exactly what they are, where they happen, and how you can join the party. The 25 most popular Caribbean islands get that way because they have unique attractions that increase their appeal. Havana is well known for its lively entertainment featuring jazz, Latin music, dance, and copious amounts of rum-flavored drinks. 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. It's time to plan your next tropical getaway. The rooms need updating, the food is expensive, and the attractions are only so-so.. It also attracts visitors looking for beach and water sports holidays. A new airport is currently under construction on the island to improve accessibility and encourage the stability of the tourism industry. Whether a family vacation or a romantic getaway, these mesmerizing islands provide many options to create perfect memories. Cuba also has plenty of museums and art galleries that offer a window into the countrys rich history and culture. On top of that, several reviewers on TripAdvisor note how littered the beaches are. Of course, the earthquakesand poor infrastructure aren't helping, either. Most locals will suggest Newport Beach Balboa Island instead, which is less crowded and more accessible (Insider). Islands Islands 1,000 km 2 (390 sq mi) and greater. Antigua and Barbuda's agricultural production is geared towards the domestic market, but faces the threat of a limited water supply and a labour shortage, caused by the lure of higher wages in tourism and construction. From the over-commercialized to the virtually undiscovered, to the accessible resorts to the most private islands youve never heard of. West Indies, Spanish Indias Occidentales, French Indes Occidentales, Dutch West-Indi, crescent-shaped group of islands more than 2,000 miles (3,200 km) long separating the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, to the west and south, from the Atlantic Ocean, to the east and north. Read our, Barbados & Eastern Caribbean 2020 Crime & Safety Report, Crime, Violence, and Development: Trends, Costs, and Policy Options in the Caribbean. "It doesn't beat Florida in terms of cleanliness," one reviewer wrote on Trip Advisor. 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. Agriculture - particularly banana crops - are central to this regained prosperity. Location is everything. Unlike most Caribbean islands, Bonaire is located outside of Hurricane Alley and years go by without a single homicide on the island. The U.S. Department of State lists the dual-island country as a Level 1, meaning to exercise normal precautions. For those who decide to take guided tours, most reviewers on TripAdvisor found them overpriced and cheesy (Trip Advisor). This means that the Puerto Rican economy is highly sensitive to the fluctuations of the world economy. 4. An island of just 10 square . 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. Another good choice isThe Hermitageat the foot of a rainforest covered mountain. Bonairewhich forms the ABC Islands with Arubaand Curaaois a special municipality oftheNetherlands. Belize, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Mexico all offer islands off their Caribbean coastsislands that share the same turquoise-blue waters and powder-white beaches you expect when you hear. The famous pink sand beaches, like Elbow Beach and Horseshoe Bay, are quite crowded in peak season, making them difficult to enjoy. Photo Credit: Aruba Tourism Authority. The Caribbean Islands. TheNevis Equestrian Centre offers rides that include beaches, trails, and villages. St. Barts, short for Saint Barthlemy, has been anoverseas collectivityof France since 2007. According to the Security Advisory Council, do not travel to parts of Montego Bay and Kingston because there is a serious risk of crime. The island is only accessible by boat from The Maldives airport, but in the opposite direction from the majority of the nations resorts, placing the island on a quieter and virtually undisturbed atoll. The fishing is good in these parts too, where barracuda, sailfish, and blue marlin are plentiful. The United States territory ofPuerto Ricois generally safe to visit (especially parts like San Juan Viejo). Santorini, Greece has blown up on social media over the last couple of years. Second line parades are a key part of New Orleans' culture. The island boats everything you could possibly want when you think of a tropical getaway. However, in May 2017 two murders occurred within 24 hours, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike. And if you need a break from all of that activity, the South Island hosts the countrys most significant wine-producing region (New Zealand Travel Insider). 1. Grenada. Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a national treasure with spots like Trafalgar Falls. Hawaii may be a dream vacation for some, but many of those who do get to visit are pretty disappointed when they get there. 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. The area has seen a rise in crime; "we were broken into twice a week," a tourist recounted on Trip Advisor. The walks here aren't bad, you just have to remember that they drive on the left and to try to hug the shoulder. 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. Canouan has bragging rights for being surrounded by the Caribbeans largest living coral reef and theres good fly-fishing and kitesurfing here too. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in the Dominican Republic | Tours in the Dominican Republic. Historically, most Caribbean islands belonged to a variety of European colonies. Iguanas, parrots, and other critters call Bonaire home, andGotomeer is a saltwater lagoon on the islands northern end where youll see flamingos. And Buck Island Reef National Monument, located 1.5 miles off St. Croix's northeast coast, offers even more excellent hiking and snorkeling. There are the islands weve all heard of, and there are the islands we never knew existed. Few places compare to the Caribbean when it comes to sun, sea, sand and surf. The statistic shows the largest island countries and territories in the Caribbean, based on land area. This is a list of islands in the Caribbean by area. The Tobago Cays, which are protected as a marine park, offer some of the finest snorkeling in the Caribbean. Explore 150 of the worlds most enchanting islands in this inspirational coffee table book that features beautiful photography, illustrations and maps. 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). 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. What to Know Before You Visit, Travel to the Caribbean: A Reopening Timeline, Country by Country, U.S. 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. As Caribbean destinations continue to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, the list of most popular Caribbean islands is ranked using 2021 data, and 2020 data is also provided to show the positive or negative changes in stay-over visitors. There are new hot spots like theBLT Steakhouse at the Ritz-Carlton and the uber-luxeMRVL Spafor next-level pampering. Some things are worth waiting for. If you want to mix education and fun, St. Nicholas Abbey, one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean, is nearby. Consider staying at theFour Seasons Resorton Pinneys Beach. On the IG stories, Magen's Bay looks like heaven but is actually hell for tourists. Also see: Best things to do in Cuba. What you will find plenty of on this 3.5-mile island inSt Vincent and the Grenadines, is boats, incredible ones at theSandy Lane Yacht Club. Everything in the BVI is so cut and dry and boring and the food is horrible. The Bahamas. The islands also offers an economic citizenship by investment, offering passports and visas in exchange for monetary investments. Getting there isnt the quickest commute, either. All rights reserved. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. According to some forums on the net, particularly Fodor's, Aruba is an overrated region. The bluest of blues and turquoise waters make for some of the worlds best beaches. Take an adventurous climb up Mt Nevis or a less intense hike to rainforest waterfalls. However, the archipelago also has a thriving services and tourist industry developed around the island's natural beauty. Consider these eight intriguing destinations for couples, all over the US. The smallest of the US Virgin Islands, it lacks the same level of luxury hotels and resorts than its counterparts. Cuba: Palacio de Valle. The World's Most Entertaining Car Website. Trinidad and Tobago, a sovereign state in theCommonwealth of Nations, was elevated to a Level 2 U.S. Travel Advisory in April 2019. 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. Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is one of the most unique Caribbean islands. 4. Many travelers also tell similar stories of street vendors everywhere, who dont seem to take no for an answer (Trip Advisor). The advantage though is you don't have to pay a fortune to live here. The local organic produce in Market Square is one of the redeeming qualities though (the cheapest in town). Culture, art and travel are crucial to her lifestyle and central to her writing. The Bahamas is also the third richest country in the Americas, following the United States and Canada. With an estimated 5.7 million tourist arrivals in 2012, it is one of the most-visited Caribbean islands. Youll have to check them out somewhere else, because Capri has none (Everywhereist). When youre tired of exploring, laze away at the beaches by day, and enjoy the spectacular bioluminescent bays at night. Here are eight of the best. Here are the most overrated islands and the ones we can only dream of visiting. The British government states that "although most visits to the BVI are trouble-free, serious incidents, including armed robbery, do occur." Martinique is also home to a dolphin sanctuary where visitors can enjoy dolphin watching and view several species all year round. "Police won't do anything," a woman claimed on Trip Advisor as she was verbally assaulted on Magen's Bay beach. Ambergris Caye, Belize - US $319,900. 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. 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. The Virgin Islands are one of the most sought after vacation destinations in the Caribbean. Photo Credit: Martinique Tourism Board. An absolute bucket list experience has to be. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Aruba | Tours in Aruba. Launched in 2014, Caribbean & Co. has won five travel media awards. It's still producing rum and offers tours of the facility six days a week. The second Island, St. Thomas is one of best Caribbean spots to enjoy sightseeing, snorkeling, diving and shopping. Beyond their beautiful beaches, each of these most popular Caribbean islands has a wide range of top attractions, all just waiting to be explored! 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. Continue to 5 of 20 below. Turns out it's very congested, dirty and the opposite of a relaxing, warm tropical Caribbean paradise (the plane engines are deafening!). News on all your favorite celebs, reality TV, and movies. Rooms need updating, the food is expensive, and the ones we can only of! Parts too, where they happen, and enjoy the spectacular bioluminescent bays at night Americas, the!, sand and surf are central to her lifestyle and central to this small Southern Caribbean island the! Reopening Timeline, country by country, known for its lively entertainment jazz... 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