The Best Places in the Caribbean to Have a Memorable Vacation
The Caribbean is a vacation destination famous for its perfect weather, beautiful islands and endless opportunities to relax and unwind. There are so many islands to choose from however it can often be difficult to decide where to vacation.
To assist in helping you to zero in on a vacation destination, here are three great choices. One location, Virgin Gorda is the rising star in the Caribbean. Virgin Gorda vacations are special one of a kind adventures that are guaranteed to make unforgettable memories.
The Dominican Republic and Jamaica are two of the most popular vacation destinations in the Caribbean. They each have lots of fun and sun but also each gives you experiences that are found nowhere else in the region. Here is an overview of the best places to visit on your next Caribbean vacation:
Virgin Gorda – The New Hot Destination
In the late 1960s an island in the British Virgin Islands was recognized as a potential tourist destination and over the decades it continues to grow in popularity. Virgin Gorda is a small beautiful island that sits on the western end of BVI. Since its recognition as a tourist destination, Virgin Gorda has grown in size to become the second most populated island in BVI and tourists continue to come for great times and unbeatable adventures. The reasons this beautiful island has become so popular include:
The Baths: The Baths is located on the southern end of Virgin Gorda and is a unique and gorgeous geologic rock formation. The rock at the Baths is granite which does not come from volcanic eruptions and instead comes from deep in the earth. The granite of the Baths was pushed up from the earth and forms scenic grottoes that open to the sea. The site is unique to the Caribbean and is breathtaking to behold.
North Sound: Universally recognized as one of the world’s great harbors, North Sound or Gorda Sound, sits at the island’s northeast and is bordered by four islands. In addition to having spectacular views, North Sound connects the areas reef systems that keep the sound calm and perfect for water activities. The diving, snorkeling and scuba here is unmatched in the Caribbean and equal to any place in the world.
Biras Hill: At the east end of North Sound sits Biras Hill, which is a famous destination for charter yachts. The largest yachts in the world moor here when they are in the Caribbean, and of course they come to shore to enjoy the activities in this part of the island. There’s a village and marina that runs for a mile here and you can get some of the island’s best cuisine, which of course centers around the abundant seafood caught just off shore.
The Beaches and Watersports: Virgin Gorda is a laid back island that is perfect for those seeking to enjoy some time in the sun and to forget about the rigors of life. The island provides miles of beautiful white sand beaches and great vacation villas that can be easily rented. If you decide to visit, bring a swimsuit and be prepared for the full island experience.
Virgin Gorda has recently gotten its own airport which makes the island more accessible. Flights usually depart from San Juan Puerto Rico and go directly to the small airport located on the island.
The Dominican Republic – The Most Popular Island in the Caribbean
Not many people realize that the Dominican Republic is the most popular destination in the Caribbean. The reason it is so popular is that there is so much to do on this island nation. It boasts fun, sun and activities galore and getting here is easy.
The country markets itself as a great destination for the entire family and many believe that it delivers in this regard. For the youngsters there are water based activities including jet skis and swimming on more than two dozen beaches scattered throughout the island.
For the young adults there is snorkeling and a nightlife that includes hot discos and live music venues in the capital city, Santo Domingo. And for adults there is lots of shopping, great restaurants and endless white sand beaches to sun bathe and simply relax.
You can choose to stay in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s large capital city where every amenity is available for you. Here it is easy to rent a beautiful villa that will accommodate the entire family. Or you can choose to stay at one of the coastal cities or towns including Puerto Plata, Boca Chica, Punta Cana or several others that get you away from the frenetic city and into the lush Dominican Republic countryside. Whichever vacation you choose or if you choose to do both, you will have an unforgettable time.
Jamaica – The Destination for Sun and Reggae Fun
No Caribbean island has had its culture spread so widely across the world as Jamaica. This tiny island nation for decades has been a leading pop cultural contributor.
Back in the early 1970s Bob Marley and the Wailers burst onto the world with their powerful music about the country. The world took notice and since that time it has been in the world conversation. This attraction has not waned as Jamaica has taken the lead in other areas including sports. In fact the most decorated and recognizable summer Olympian Usain Bolt, hails from the country.
Today Jamaica attracts millions of visitors who want to visit the country that creates superstars. When they arrive, they find a beautiful and special place that is matched nowhere else in the Caribbean.
Jamaicans have a unique way of looking at life. They are heavy influence by Rastafarianism, a lifestyle that promotes a laid back approach to things. When you come to the island, you will find that being laid back, is a requirement, and there are activities everywhere to support that state of mind.
The country has many cities that are renowned as hot travel destinations. The top places include Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril and of course the capital city Kingston. And if you want to visit the fastest growing tourist in the country, you should head over to Sandy Bay on the Northwest coast and rent a beachfront villa.
Each of these cities provides warm tropical temperatures and access to miles of white sand beaches. There are a plethora of things to do from diving, to watersports, to exploring the amazing coral reefs that surround the island. And also Jamaica is the home of Reggae, and Dancehall music. So wherever you go, there are music festivals and music halls playing this Jamaican born style of music. In fact, you might see a reggae party start right on the street with hundreds of people joining in the fun. If you do, feel free to participate and get your groove on.
Jamaica is famous for its repeat tourist visitors. They love the fact that the island has so much to do and see. It takes several trips to experience it all.
No matter which island you choose you will enjoy the perfect weather, beautiful white sand beaches, endless fun, and great local people to assist you in having a one of a kind vacation.