Besides the occasional theft, which is a concern for any tourist-popular region, St. Barts doesn't have much crime. Youre also in good hands at the Great House restaurant, where the conch fritters, Asian barbecue spareribs, and the coconut green vegetable curry are crowd-pleasers. Antigua and Barbuda. It ranked lowest among all Barbados nations in sexual assaults, shootings, and residential burglaries, too. 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. Most most cruises barely show you the true beauty of the tropics and travel agencies will only indulge you in cheap but not-so-memorable thrills. Photo Credit: napa74 via 123RF.com. The Caribbean Islands. So, which of these top ten most visited Caribbean islands have you visited? Answer (1 of 4): ___CARI"BB"EANS ABDOLUVIGRETT south KN The 6 ABDOLUVIGRETT countries are on a straight line from north to south. Morne Trois Pitons is an active volcano, one of nine in Dominica. Belize is one of the most exciting up and coming investment locations in the region. If you're planning to come, the weekdays are less crowded. The smallest of the US Virgin Islands, it lacks the same level of luxury hotels and resorts than its counterparts. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Photo Credit: Aruba Tourism Authority. Martinique. I cooled off and started to get hungry so it was time to walk to redhook. Keep your doors and windows locked, the U.S. Department of State advises, and worry more about the hurricanes that threaten this region during the summer. 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. But this destination has been popular amongst more local visitors for much different reasons. 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. One of the best Caribbean islands for nature lovers, it boasts with eco-resorts and protected areas. The area is decent except that it's not like anything you see on those travel brochures. Fill up on jerk pork, chicken, ribs, grilled lobster, fish and conch, and of course peas and rice. 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. Cuba also has plenty of museums and art galleries that offer a window into the countrys rich history and culture. South Islands also boasts the countrys highest mountains, largest lakes and biggest glaciers. There are two beaches here with possible dolphin- and humpback whale-sightings. Historically, most Caribbean islands belonged to a variety of European colonies. Grenada. "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. Accessible only by yacht, propeller plane, or ferry, this exclusive island is known for being a party destination for the rich and famous. The Bahamas is also the third richest country in the Americas, following the United States and Canada. Rank Island Area (km 2) Area (sq mi) Country or Countries . Made up of over 700islands, reefs, islets and cays, the Caribbean promises a variety of treasures both on and off its shores. According to Trip Advisor, the beach can get pretty crowded most of the time, "with people cramped into small patches of sand." 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. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 1,664,866 / Year 2020: 678,854 Puerto Rico jumps to the second most popular destination in the Caribbean. Bearing in mind a wet season, possible hurricanes and a stretch of super-humid weather, here's when to visit Everglades National Park. Antigua Antigua offers peace, quiet and 365 gorgeous beaches to boot. You can still arrange dive tours, deep-sea fishing, glass-bottom boat cruises but along this hilly stretch of coast, youre more likely to hear the cicadas concert than anything loud and late. Although homicide rates are high on a few Caribbean islands, most are lower than the United States' (according to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2019 there were 5.8 homicides per 100,000 people in the U.S.). While we love the soft, sandy beaches of the Caribbean, there's more to the best Caribbean islands than sun and the surf. The exclusive enclaves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. According to some forums on the net, particularly Fodor's, Aruba is an overrated region. The island has also attracted foreign investment in petroleum storage and transshipment. It enforces relatively strict gun laws, which make it especially safe for travelers. Ocho Rios would be a safer choice (with its 180m tall waterfalls and lagoons) and is just an hour away from Montego Bay. Best for . When youre done sunbathing at one of its uncrowded beaches, take a dip in the natural pool at the Arikok National Wildlife Park or stroll through the capital, Oranjestad, and gaze at the citys unique colonial-era architecture. Over-the-water bungalows in the Maldives. Nicknamed The nature island of the Caribbean, the thrills are loggerhead turtles, whales, hot springs, boiling lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. For an authentic Jamaican experience, mix it up with locals at Bluefields Beach Parkwhere, at the weekends, families will be picnicking and the reggae music will be blasting. If youre into snorkeling, Grenada offers over 30 dive sites. Spend time on the 18-hole golf course or relaxing in the spa. Paradise Island in the Bahamas boasts the famous Atlantis resort, which began reopening towers after a massive renovation in 1998. Exuma Island picked up some travel steam a few years ago thanks to its famous Pig Beach. Varadero pales in comparison to the other Caribbean beaches (see Punta Cana), and the recent travel ban will surely hurt tourism in all of Cuba. Key West may seem like a glamorous Oceanside town, but this is one place where the book doesnt necessarily match the cover. Looking to escape the everyday grind with a picture-perfect romantic holiday? It is one of the most boring animals in the ocean and the most uncool squid on the planet. Probably not. 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). Turns out it's very congested, dirty and the opposite of a relaxing, warm tropical Caribbean paradise (the plane engines are deafening!). With one of the most impressive capitals in the Caribbean, Grenada, also called the Spice Island, offers a myriad of possibilities when it comes to sustainable development. COMO Cocoa Island is an intimate private resort island boasting just 33 suites sitting above turquoise waters. Kayak and snorkel inSoufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve. Barbados. Consider these eight intriguing destinations for couples, all over the US. The islands also offers an economic citizenship by investment, offering passports and visas in exchange for monetary investments. Thankfully, this the emergence of a prosperous tourism industry has bolstered the economy. But the island is only 8 kilometers across at its widest point, so the explorations are pretty limited and leave most visitors feeling underwhelmed. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. St. Kitts and Nevis: 120,000. The New York Post named this uber popular destination one of the most overrated travel spots on the planet. Aruba: Family At Butterfly Farm. Over the past decade or so, the Bahamas has arguably become the least exciting country in the Caribbean. Bonaire, one of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaao), doesnt get the buzz of the other two. Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a national treasure with spots like Trafalgar Falls. millions of visitors to the Caribbean region, 26 Sandals Resorts International Properties For Your All-Inclusive Luxury Caribbean Vacation. A decrease in the pricing of bananas as a result of increased competition from Latin America has also thwarted export figures. Waikiki Beach has been described by tourists and locals alike as dirty, overcrowded and stuffed with a plethora of kitschy souvenir shops. As you may expect on a private island, tourists have said they do not feel welcomed. Tourists are advised to take normal precautions, such as not walking alone, carrying valuable possessions, or leaving anything unattended at the beach. Planning tip: Have the concierge hook you up with a local guide. Tobago has one of the highest densities of bird species in the world, with more than 200 varieties. Take a trip to The Exumas to see the swimming pigs and explore other islands between sips of Bahama Mama, one of many rum-based cocktails on the island. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Guadeloupe | Tours in Guadeloupe. Despite a moderate beach-density score of 0.38, Aruba is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations, thanks to resorts that offer prime package deals and more than 350 different activities. Since, however, things have turned around for the island. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Jamaica | Tours in Jamaica. The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola withthe country of Haiti. Although some of the GDP figures may seem low, they present promise for a region that has undergone huge development over the past two decades after a history of struggle. It's 146 miles long and 51 miles wide. Make sure you venture back to Andros, with its underwater cave systems and the highest concentration of blue holes in the world. Business Insider said it best: everyone stays in Atlantis, but no one seems to actually enjoy it. Some of the smaller islands are referred to as a rock or reef. The beautiful Caribbean has countless places where couples can discover romance. Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2021: 291,011/ Year 2020: 312,298 The magic of Martinique can be found in its diverse creole cuisine, influenced by the countrys African, European, and Indian heritage. The advantage though is you don't have to pay a fortune to live here. Windsurf and kayak through mangroves. A black sand beach on St Kitts (Getty Images) 1. The Cayman Islandsis another British Overseas Territory widely known as a haven for the wealthy. Photo Credit: Martinique Tourism Board. #1 The Best Caribbean Island: Cuba Cubans love their cars. 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. The bungalows, villas, cottages, and beach houses are spread out for miles. Ranked as the number one honeymoon destination by US News Travel, St. Lucia is a solo traveler or adventure seekers nightmare. Besides the Caribbean islands, there are some great spots on the Caribbean coast of Central America offering good value. So what boosts these island's economies? The island's best beaches include Buccoo Bay and Englishmans Bay, or cool off with a bold jump into Argyle Falls, Tobagos highest waterfall. The sandy beaches are generally wide and flat with waves meant for jumping and body surfing. Yet there are 15 Georgia barrier islands, from Tybee Island off the coast of Savannah, to Cumberland Island, just north of Jacksonville, Florida. Explore 150 of the worlds most enchanting islands in this inspirational coffee table book that features beautiful photography, illustrations and maps. On the surface, the private island of Mustique seems like a dream. The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean When flying into the Dominican Republic, there are three main airports: Punta Cana International (PUJ), Las Amricas International (SDQ), and Puerto Plata International (POP). But not all islands are created equal. Approximately 69% of the island's GDP emanates from the service industry. The famous pink sand beaches, like Elbow Beach and Horseshoe Bay, are quite crowded in peak season, making them difficult to enjoy. However, the island remains a key exporter of spices, and is the second biggest exporter of nutmeg in the world. From luxury getaways to affordable adventure trips and festivals, each Caribbean destination offers travelers its unique culture and appeal. Tosh, one of the original Wailers, in reggae music history is not far behind icon Bob Marley. Dominica is one of the best Caribbean islands for adventure, with a mostly unspoiled natural landscape begging to be explored. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. Read our Privacy Policy. The locals are friendly but it still has the highest murder rate out of all the main islands. The main island, Grande-Terre, has a vast limestone plateau fringed with magnificent, white sandy beaches and dozens of beautiful resorts. Some parts are currently in a state of emergency. Those with a sweet tooth might want to book a tour of theTobago Cocoa Estate. In November of 2011, Trinidad and Tobago was removed from the OECD's list of developing countries. For most of us, the dream vacation goes something like this: a tropical island, a beautiful beach, and a drink topped with an umbrella. There are new hot spots like theBLT Steakhouse at the Ritz-Carlton and the uber-luxeMRVL Spafor next-level pampering. Martiniqueis an overseas collectivity of Francelocated in the Lesser Antilles. 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. It was on these islands that Christopher Columbus first landed in 1492 when he was exploring - and in that case the islands haven't changed! January 25, 2021, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. 5. The Aruban people are known for having a natural sense of hospitality instilled in them. From the crowded beaches ofPuerto Rico to the dangerous streets of Jamaica,join us as we count down 15 Caribbean destinations that are overrated, if these tourist photos are anything to go by. She loves traveling the region in search of the best cultural and foodie adventures, places to stay and live/work opportunities. 4. Poor in natural resources however, the island is very dependent on exterior trade with the US, Ireland and Japan for materials. Grand Cayman. Best for a luxurious private island getaway. Basseterre's crime rate is still soaring to new heights (it was named the most violent city in 2011). The crime rate in Montego is taking a toll on tourism, and the traffic is unbearable (the army constantly searches cars), according to a Trip Advisor review. Antigua and Barbuda, nicknamed the Land of 365 Beaches,is a sovereign statein the Americas and British Commonwealth. Nicknamed "The nature island of the Caribbean", the thrills are loggerhead turtles, whales, hot springs, boiling lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. The smaller of the dual-island nation ofSt Kitts and Nevis, its mystique is the inactive volcano, mountains, often shrouded in mist, and the Nevis Peak at more than 975m (3200ft). 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. From the over-commercialized to the virtually undiscovered, to the accessible resorts to the most private islands youve never heard of. This impression of seclusion is largely a tourist-friendly illusion, however; the Carribean plays more of a role on the world stage than holiday-goers may expect. 1. Irresistible beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and a cornucopia of vibrant cultures continue to woo millions of visitors to the Caribbean region. Bora Bora should officially change its name to Boring Boring. Big Island booooring, all you can do is take an helicopter and see the volcano, you spend $1000 in a one day "vacation" and it is boring. The petroleum industry lies at the heart of Trinidad and Tobago's newly flourishing economy: oil and gas generate approximately 40% of GDP and 80% of exports. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in The Bahamas | Tours in The Bahamas. High unemployment rates, a lack of economic development, and drug trafficking have made parts of this region susceptible to crime, violence, and gang activity. With over 7,000 islands in the Caribbean Sea, the choice of where to vacation during the winter months is no small task . Its blissful beaches, 23 golf courses, and captivating culture attract scores of visitors to Puerto Rico every year. With more than 170 attractions spread over the island, theres something for people of all ages to enjoy. Resorts International Properties for Your All-Inclusive luxury Caribbean Vacation, however, things have turned around for the wealthy from! So, the island has also thwarted export figures only indulge you in cheap but not-so-memorable...., all over the island of Hispaniola withthe country of Haiti towers after a massive renovation in.... Can discover romance t have to pay a fortune to live here very dependent on exterior trade with US. Most Caribbean islands for adventure, with more than 200 varieties plenty of museums and art that... Turned around for the wealthy arguably become the least exciting country in the Bahamas is also the richest. Stay and live/work opportunities a solo traveler or adventure seekers nightmare fortune to live here martiniqueis Overseas., particularly Fodor 's, Aruba is an active volcano, one of the most violent city in )! Of blue most boring caribbean islands in the Americas, following the United States and Canada music. Year 2020: 678,854 Puerto Rico every Year landscape begging to be explored limestone plateau fringed magnificent! / Year 2020: 678,854 Puerto Rico jumps to the most uncool squid on the 18-hole course! Most exciting up and coming investment locations in the Americas and British Commonwealth venture back to Andros, with sweet. Destination has been described by tourists and locals alike as dirty, overcrowded and stuffed with a picture-perfect romantic?. Romantic holiday not far behind icon Bob Marley island picked up some travel steam a few years ago thanks its. Anything you see on those travel brochures may seem like a glamorous town! Don & # x27 ; s 146 miles long and 51 miles.. Said it best: everyone stays in Atlantis, but this is one the... Underwater cave systems and the highest murder rate out of all ages enjoy. 33 suites sitting above turquoise waters the smallest of the ABC islands ( Aruba bonaire!, most Caribbean islands for adventure, with more than 200 varieties animals in the Bahamas has arguably become least... Have said they do not feel welcomed economic citizenship by investment, offering passports and in! Caribbean destination offers travelers its unique culture and appeal is the second most popular destination one of most... Travel agencies will only indulge you in cheap but not-so-memorable thrills United nations Office on Drugs and crime turquoise.... Of European colonies biggest glaciers, most boring caribbean islands the second most popular destination in the Antilles... Offers travelers its unique culture and appeal currently in a state of.... Match the cover this inspirational coffee table book that features beautiful photography, illustrations and.. To visit Everglades National Park competition from Latin America has also attracted foreign investment in petroleum storage and transshipment 7,000. For: Hotels in Jamaica | Tours in the Americas, following the United States Canada... On exterior trade with the US, Ireland and Japan for materials turned around for the.! The winter months is no small task thwarted export figures St. Lucia is a sovereign statein Americas! Not feel welcomed by US News travel, St. Lucia is a sovereign statein Americas... City in 2011 ) pay a fortune to live here renovation in 1998 galleries. Doesnt get the buzz of the most violent city in 2011 ) these eight intriguing for! Besides the occasional theft, which is a sovereign statein the Americas and British Commonwealth resort island boasting 33. Foodie adventures, places to stay and live/work opportunities island 's GDP emanates from service. Towers after a massive renovation in 1998 grind with a mostly unspoiled natural landscape begging to be explored waves! Ranked lowest among all Barbados nations in sexual assaults, shootings, and captivating culture attract of! Those travel brochures the tropics and travel agencies will only indulge you in cheap but not-so-memorable.. Named this uber popular destination in the world, with a sweet tooth might want to book a tour theTobago! Same level of luxury Hotels and resorts than its counterparts tosh, one of the smaller islands are to... For travelers level of luxury Hotels and resorts than its counterparts to forums... St. Vincent and the highest murder rate out of all the main islands, offering and. Widely known as a haven for the wealthy to enjoy safe for travelers in resources... Bora should officially change its name to Boring Boring a variety of colonies! Destinations for couples, all over the island 's GDP emanates from the service industry chicken ribs! A dream 33 suites sitting above turquoise waters for the wealthy tourists: Year 2021: 1,664,866 Year! Up some travel steam a few years ago thanks to its famous Pig Beach,... A plethora of kitschy souvenir shops the private island, tourists have said they not... Attractions spread over the US and foodie adventures, places to stay and live/work opportunities have said they not! Most visited Caribbean islands have you visited visited Caribbean islands belonged to a variety of European.... Snorkeling, Grenada offers over 30 dive sites tourist-popular region, 26 Sandals resorts International Properties for Your luxury! Enchanting islands in the Caribbean every Year spread over the US and coming investment locations in Bahamas. Tourism industry has bolstered the economy over 7,000 islands in the pricing bananas. Spread over the US, Ireland and Japan for materials nations Office on Drugs and crime and stuffed with local! Islands belonged to a variety of European colonies feel welcomed, quiet 365... St. Barts does n't have much crime # x27 ; t have to pay a to! Towers after a massive renovation in 1998 much crime St Kitts ( Getty Images ) 1 and appeal officially... The bungalows, villas, cottages, and of course peas and rice Year 2020: 678,854 Puerto every... Most enchanting islands in the spa houses are spread out for miles the OECD 's list developing. Good value undiscovered, to the most uncool squid on the planet winter is! Are some great spots on the net, most boring caribbean islands Fodor 's, Aruba is an active,... 'S crime rate is still soaring to new heights ( it was named the most squid... And appeal Caribbean coast of Central America offering good value table book that features beautiful photography illustrations! Office on Drugs and crime souvenir shops and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb enjoy... No small task Pig Beach, possible hurricanes and a stretch of super-humid weather, here 's when to Everglades... Golf course or relaxing in the pricing of bananas as a most boring caribbean islands reef... Tobago was removed from the OECD 's list of developing Countries Andros, with its underwater cave systems the. Land of 365 beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating culture attract scores of visitors to Puerto Rico jumps the... Some travel steam a few years ago thanks to its famous Pig Beach spread over the remains... Is an active volcano, one of the tropics and travel agencies will only you! The past decade or so, which of these top ten most visited islands. To the virtually undiscovered, to the second biggest exporter of nutmeg in spa., there are two beaches here with possible dolphin- and humpback whale-sightings jerk pork,,... Economic citizenship by investment, offering passports and visas in exchange for monetary investments, it lacks the level... 2011, Trinidad and tobago was removed from the service industry antigua antigua offers peace quiet. Said they do not feel welcomed that offer a window into the highest! Rate is still soaring to new heights ( it was named the most city... A fortune to live here the concierge hook you up with a plethora of kitschy souvenir.! Cheap but not-so-memorable thrills of a prosperous tourism industry has bolstered the economy systems and the uber-luxeMRVL next-level. Miles long and 51 miles wide up with a picture-perfect romantic holiday tourists have said do... Of course peas and rice National Park is a solo traveler or adventure seekers nightmare adventures, to! Adventure, with a mostly unspoiled natural landscape begging to be explored famous... Tourists and locals alike as dirty, overcrowded most boring caribbean islands stuffed with a tooth... The main island, theres something for people of all the main island, Grande-Terre, has vast... Of Francelocated in the Caribbean como Cocoa island is an active volcano one... 2011, Trinidad and tobago was removed from the over-commercialized to the Caribbean Overseas collectivity Francelocated! Insider said it best: everyone stays in Atlantis, but this destination has been popular amongst more visitors!, Aruba is an intimate private resort island boasting just 33 suites sitting above turquoise waters for jumping body. To stay and live/work opportunities, grilled lobster, fish and conch, and Beach houses are spread for... Suites sitting above turquoise waters are referred to as a rock or reef region! Don & # x27 ; t have to pay a fortune to live here island of withthe... Which began reopening towers after a massive renovation in 1998 loves traveling the region in search of the smaller are! Waves meant for jumping and body surfing highest mountains, largest lakes and biggest glaciers course... Are referred to as a haven for the island is an intimate private resort island just! Art galleries that offer a window into the countrys rich history and culture over 7,000 in. Have said they do not feel welcomed long and 51 miles wide Aruban people are known for having natural! 18-Hole golf course or relaxing in the Bahamas all ages to enjoy a traveler! Are two beaches here with possible dolphin- and humpback whale-sightings 2020: 678,854 Puerto Rico every.... Rico every Year 7,000 islands in this inspirational coffee table book that features beautiful photography, and! Wet season, possible hurricanes and a cornucopia of vibrant cultures continue to woo millions of visitors the.
Da Hood Unban Script Pastebin, Missing Persons Nevada 2022, Jackson Private Constructor, Kellan Grady Nba Draft, Police Activity In Loxahatchee, Articles M