Professional Documents
Culture Documents
ANGUILLA • ANTIGUA & BARBUDA • THE BAHAMAS • BARBADOS • BELIZE • BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
CAYMAN ISLANDS • CURAçAO • DOMINICA • GRENADA • GUYANA • HAITI • JAMAICA • MARTINIQUE
MONTSERRAT • NEVIS • PUERTO RICO • ST. EUSTATIUS • ST. KITTS • SAINT LUCIA
SAINT-MARTIN • ST. MAARTEN • ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO • TURKS & CAICOS
Your GUIDE TO THE caribbean
www.caribbean.co.uk
D A I LY F L I G H T S F RO M LO N D O N G AT W I C K
BO O K N OW AT
BA .CO M / ST LU C I A
Travel Trade
Publication of the Year Carol I. Hay
Director of Marketing UK & Europe,
Caribbean Tourism Organization
Contents
Don’t Miss 4 On a Budget 28 The Bahamas 44 Jamaica 49 St.Vin & The Grenadines54 54
St. Vincent
& The Grenadines
Caribbean Roots 6 Eco-tourism 30 Barbados 45 Martinique 50 Trinidad & Tobago 54
Moving Around 8 Cruising/Shopping 31 Belize 45 Montserrat 50 Trinidad & Tobago
Turks & Caicos 55 55
Romance 11 Farms & Ranches 33 British Virgin Islands 46 Nevis 51 Turks Airline
& CaicosChart 55 56
A Family Affair 15 Soak it Up 36 Cayman Islands 46 Puerto Rico 51 AirlineWhere
Chart to Book 56 56
Rooms With a View 17 Caribbean Tastes 38 Curaçao 47 St. Eustatius 52 to Book of Members58 61
WhereDirectory
Going Local 18 Map 40 Dominica 47 St. Kitts 52 Your Directory 60
Steps Ahead 20 Destinations A-Z 43 Grenada 48 Saint Lucia 53 Directory of Members 61
Get Active 24 Anguilla 43 Guyana 48 St. Maarten 53
Highs & Lows 26 Antigua & Barbuda 44 Haiti 49 Saint-Martin 54
3
provide a guide, transfers and lunch.
Guests ascend through rain and
cloud forests to reach an exhilarating Dance the night away or without crew, and there are plenty
lavascape and the ash-strewn crater rim. in Cuba of places to learn the ropes – onboard
The round trip takes around five hours In Cuba, the beat of the music partying included.
5
to complete. finds you. From a bedroom
2
window, a passing 1950s car, or buskers
strumming on a beach. Salsa, bolero, Drink rum in Barbados
Go diving in the jazz, rumba, chachachá – the mood here There’s at least 1,500 rum shops
Cayman Islands segues from soulful to vibrant, from in Barbados and having a drink
Slip under the waves and you’ll catchy rhythms in a backstreet club to in one is a classic way to tune
discover a second, gorgeous a dazzling floor show with dancers lost into the Caribbean’s easy-going vibe.
Caribbean. Vivid corals bloom in an in a whirl of feathers. Cuba is made for Brightly painted, by day they act as a
enchanted garden raining with silver dancing the night away, and if you combined bar, convenience store and
fish, and sunbeams don’t know how the charismatic community centre. By night – well,
highlight Cubans will happily teach you. how’s your karaoke? On Friday nights,
4
don’t miss the fish fry at Oistins Bay
Gardens. Tuna, swordfish, marlin, mahi-
Sail away in the mahi, flying fish, lobster, chicken and
British Virgin more are served in an informal setting.
Islands There’s also soca and calypso music and
With calm waters, you can jamm with the locals or watch
reliable winds, sheltered the others dance!
6
bays and over 50 small
islands, the British
Virgin Islands are Travel back in time on St. Kitts
the perfect natural The narrow, winding road up to
arena for a sailing holiday. Brimstone Hill Fortress National
Operators such as Sunsail and Park gives little clue that you
The Moorings offer charters with will arrive at a colossal citadel with
stone battlements, ghostly barracks ‘Tree to Bar’ experience at the Rabot an ethereal place that will leave you
and venerable cannon pointing out to Estate, which is Saint Lucia’s oldest spellbound.
sea. Dating from 1690, this UNESCO cacao plantation and now owned by
10
World Heritage site is one of the British chocolatier Hotel Chocolat.
secret wonders of the Caribbean with After seeing how the bean is cultivated Fall for Venezuela
a compelling story that unfolds in the and fermented, you then get to grind Venezuela is home to some
visitor centre, excellent audioguide the roasted nibs and create you own of South America’s most
and Fort George Museum. delicious organic bar. Can there be a incredible landscapes,
7
better way to impress your friends? including the world’s highest waterfall,
9
Angel Falls. Located in Canaima
Take to air and sea in Guyana National Park, the falls are 16 times the
Taking a scenic day-trip by Venture deep inside a Mayan height of Niagara Falls. Getting to the
small plane to Kaieteur Falls is cave in Belize falls is an adventure in itself: visitors
a bucket-list thrill. After flying In the foothills of the Maya journey there by small propeller plane
over vast green jungles you land beside Mountains, Actun Tunichil and motorised canoe.
the longest single drop waterfall in the Muknal is a three-mile (4.8km) long cave Along the way are a series of smaller
world, gushing from a height of 741ft where deep inside lies a 1,200-year- waterfalls to photograph. At one of
(226m) like a river of silver. And there’s old Mayan burial site complete with these, you can go behind and then
a bonus – the pilot then continues skulls and bones. Getting swim under. All of the smaller
tip
to Orinduik Falls, where the river has there is a real adventure. falls have curious-looking
carved out terraces from red jasper After a 45-minute hike, reddish water due to the
s
rock. Fancy a swim? You bet! three river crossings and C ari b bean ha high mineral content.
The orld
SCO W
8
a swim through dark 22 UNE Sites. The At Angel Falls itself,
e
tunnels, you clamber Heritag e English visitors can stay in
latest, th Antigua,
Make sweet chocolate in past massive stalactites.
Harb o u r in simple hammock camps
ded
Saint Lucia The destination? A lofty was ad for a night or two to see
in 2016
Everyone loves chocolate, but chamber where priests the falls at different times
how is it made? Find out on a conducted their rituals; of the day and night. •
tip
F ew parts of the world offer so
many diverse cultures living
Courts Site in Puerto Rico dates back
to the indigenous Taíno people in the museum
s
Shops in toric sites
his
side by side amid such gorgeous 13th-15th centuries, while The Bahamas’ and at n the best
tropical scenery. And every Caribbean Clifton Heritage National Park has a are ofte k up books
pic
country has compelling sights where replica hut recalling the days of the place to e Caribbean’s
about th tage and
you can connect with the past, islands’ first settlers, the Lucayans. heri
culture
from military forts and the ruins of The jungles of Belize contain a wealth
sugar mills to national museums of Mayan archaeological sites, including
and monuments that commemorate Caracol with its magnificent stepped
the struggles, achievements and pyramid rising to 140ft (42m).
personalities that have helped shape There’s plenty to keep history buffs happy in the Caribbean
the Caribbean we see today. A new world
The arrival of Europeans in the late On Jamaica, Greenwood Great House
In the beginning 15th century, starting with the Spanish is a grand authentically furnished
The first inhabitants of the Caribbean and soon followed by the British, French plantation owner’s residence, built in the
were Amerindians and you can still and Dutch, transformed the region and 1800’s. Other nations that have left their
see reminders of their presence. has left a treasury of historic sites to mark include the Irish in Montserrat,
In Anguilla, the Fountain Cavern explore. where St Patrick’s Day is an annual
National Park has rock art dating Cuba’s capital, Havana, is richly public holiday.
from 400 AD that was created by the stocked with Spanish colonial Never to be forgotten, the stain of
Arawaks in what is considered the architecture, including the slavery is remembered in
oldest cave used for ritual massive Fortaleza de San the Pompey Museum of
Visitors to Montserrat
ceremonies in the region. In Carlos de la Cabaña, which receive a shamrock- Slavery and Emancipation
shaped stamp in their
southern Guyana, Makatau was completed in 1774. passport – a reminder of in Nassau, in The Bahamas,
mountain has over 600 of On St. Eustatius
Eustatius, the island’s Irish heritage, while the Amazing Grace
dating back to the 1630s
their petroglyphs, Oranjestad is home to the Experience Visitor Centre
dating from 3000- ruins of a Dutch Reformed on St. Kitts reveals the
5000 BC. The Church originally built in 1755, while island’s connection to this famous and
descendants Willemstad in Curaçao has examples inspirational hymn.
of the Arawaks’ of well-preserved Dutch buildings from The colossal Citadelle Laferrière in
successors, the both the 17th and 18th centuries. Haiti bears physical testament to
Caribs, survive in the The remnants of military forts survive the slave revolution of 1804 that
Kalinago Territory on on the French islands of Martinique and lead to the formation of the world’s
Dominica, where you Saint-Martin, while Fort Amsterdam,
Saint-Martin first independent black republic.
can visit a recreated which dates from 1631, is a reminder of On the west coast of Trinidad, the
traditional village, Dutch rule in St. Maarten. Indian Caribbean Museum documents
Kalinago Barana Autê, Links with British colonial rule live the history of East Indians in the
to learn about their on in Barbados at Garrison Savannah Caribbean, while daily life on a small
culture. in Bridgetown, where military buildings island is poignantly captured in The
The Caguana and a horse-racing course from 1845 Heritage Collection Museum in Anguilla.
Ceremonial Ball are still in use today. Elsewhere, many destinations also
the hop
Moving between the
Caribbean’s diverse
islands and countries,
sprinkled across the
Caribbean Sea and
MOVING AROUND
Atlantic Ocean, is
simpler than you think
bucuti.com
intriguing island has its own special brand of kicking back and
Untitled-1
Untitled-6 1 4/20/18 01:01
01/03/2018 PM
15:41
love
islands
Whether its vows with ‘wows’, a romantic
rendezvous for two or a love island à
deux, you’ll find romance in the air
tip
ROMANCE
y check
Carefull sidency
d re
legal an ments for
require ed: each
w
getting s its own
la n d ha
is t
on’t ge
Sun Group Hotels
law s. D
a u gh t out!
c
decide upon, and there’s a stunning And for the truly adventurous couple,
variety of backdrops to choose from. how about an underwater wedding in
How about a luxury yacht? Or an over- the Cayman Islands?
the-water wedding chapel with the
sea lapping all around you (available Honeymoon hideaways
at Sandals’ South Coast Jamaica and Boutique boltholes, all-inclusive resorts
Grande St Lucian, Saint Lucia). Sandals’ and luxury hotels provide plenty of
Aisle to Isle wedding packages offers choice for all budgets.
a myriad of other options too. Chauffeured Rolls-Royce airport
Historic wedding venues to choose transfers are included for couples
from on St. Eustatius include historic staying in the top suites at Sandals’
Fort Oranje (built in 1636), the Dutch Royal Barbados, which opened in late Sea shells make pretty table decorations
Reformed Church and The Miriam C. 2017. The all-suite resort also features
Smith Botanical Gardens. millionaire suites, sky-pool suites
Couples staying at Cap Maison, and swim-up suites, some with their
Saint Lucia, can marry on a clifftop, a own private pool and hot tubs.
secluded sandy beach, luxury yacht The boutique Silversands Grenada,
or on a roof-top terrace. They can a member of Leading Hotels of the
also have exclusive use of the World, became the Spice Isle’s
resort. Wedding packages latest luxe hotspot when it
include celebrant and
ceremony paraphernalia,
tip
e
opened on Grand Anse
Beach in early 2018. PICTURE TO COME
fre
such as
and champagne can be Extras otographs Its 43 suites and nine
h
cake, p ded rooms,
delivered via zip-line for pg ra m villas offer minimalist
and u inimu
the reception afterwards. ay req uire a m , so design and ‘understated
m of stay
The Atlantis Resort in length what’s luxury’, plus there’s a spa Heels aren’t really an option!
check d
The Bahamas offers 15 include offering locally-inspired
ceremony venues and a host treatments, artworks from
of wedding-package options the owner’s private collection,
and AMResorts have all-inclusive and the Caribbean’s longest pool at
resorts in Jamaica, Curaçao and Puerto 100-metres.
Rico, offering wedding and honeymoon Nevis has countless plantation house
packages, as do SuperClubs, with hotels that are perfect for couples
resorts in Jamaica and The Bahamas. wanting to chill. Or twin a stay on the
A traditional Jewish wedding is island with time on nearby St. Kitts,
available at the synagogue in Curaçao; where the 126-room Park Hyatt opened
the only synagogue operating in the on Banana Bay in late 2017.
Caribbean – however, you’ll have to Elegant Hotels’ first Antigua hotel, the
apply to the city council a year in all-suite and villa Hodges Bay, opens
advance and prove that you are Jewish. in 2018 in a secluded setting. • A little corner of paradise
Truly uncommon
Nestled within Christophe Harbour
development on a nearly-
untouched area of the island of
St. Kitts called The Peninsula,
Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers the Our motto – food thoughtfully sourced and carefully served
unparalleled Park Hyatt experience
for discerning leisure travellers to
this idyllic destination. The resort
Perfecting elegance with uncommon art offers golden sandy beaches and
crystal-clear waters overlooking
The Narrows – a majestic straight
separating St. Kitts and its volcanic
sister-island of Nevis.
Classic
style
Our ad
mimics ult-only pool
the
arches o centuries-old
Hill – a U f Brimstone
NES
Heritage CO World
Site
St. Kitts on
now
From close encounters with stingrays to supervised children’s clubs
and beach horse riding, the Caribbean provides endless family fun
A FAMILY AFFAIR
Saint Lucia’s drive-in volcano.
Other Pirates of the Caribbean-themed Shiver me timbers! Pirate adventures await…
activities offered by the hotel include
a treasure hunt on Pigeon Island, and a rainforest with its hummingbirds and and its Ostrich Farm in Santa Catharina
trip to Black Bay in Vieux Fort, where gigantic gommier trees. Older ones provides fun for all the family.
Blackbeard allegedly stored his treasure. will find thrills aplenty on the other
islands’ exciting zip-lines. Days out
Up and under The Caribbean’s warm, clear seas Iguanas, turtles, volcanoes and trains
The skies really are the limit on Jamaica, provide hours of fishy fun, too. Swim make a great day out. Mingle with
Belize, Haiti, Grenada and Saint Lucia. among huge stingrays at Stingray City, blue iguanas at the Queen Elizabeth II
Young ones will love the aerial tram that just a boat ride from Grand Cayman or Botanic Park on Grand Cayman or
glides silently through the Saint Lucian Antigua – even little ones can take a safari and learn about
join in the feeding from the the breeding programme
shallows of the sandbar. tip that saved these
Swimming with sp o tting dragon-like creatures
Turtle March –
dolphins makes for a e aso n is on e from extinction.
s opt
ber. Ad
memorable day out in Septem rity and help Watching turtles
a
St. Martin/St. Maarten, via a ch ation efforts hatch is a once-in-a-
conserv a, St. Kitts
the British Virgin Islands A n tig u lifetime experience on
in ago
and St. Kitts, and families and Tob Saint-Martin, St. Kitts,
that don’t want to get their Trinidad and Tobago and
feet wet can enjoy the ocean’s Antigua – why not join
stunning marine life from an Atlantis a conservation project?
submarine in Grand Cayman and Jump aboard the St. Kitts double-
Barbados. Curaçao’s Sea Aquarium deck scenic railway for a relaxed tour
Meeting a friendly local offers more than 400 species of fish, through the island’s sugar plantations.
view
rooms with a Anguilla
The ‘Q Hotel’ is
Anguilla’s latest
ultra-luxe hotspot
and is lavishly furnished with high-
quality furnishings, Swedish Hastens
mattresses, antiques and a fine
collection of Haitian Art. The nine luxury
suites and villas are set in tropical
gardens overlooking the white sands of
Long Bay. Executive Chef, Dominique
Boutique boltholes, beachfront hotels and Thevenet, serves Caribbean cuisine
over-the-water villas, the Caribbean offers with a French twist in the fine-dining
Julians restaurant, plus there’s an
it all. Here are seven of the best… infinity pool, yoga pavilion, spa, and
24-hour butler service.
Festival fever
T he Caribbean’s fabulous sun
and sea will make your holiday
memorable, but the friendly warmth
Put your dancing shoes on – it’s
carnival time! Join the colourful
of its people is what makes for a truly parades, masqueraders and soca,
unforgettable experience. reggae and calypso musicians who take
And you don’t have to party hard to the streets in most of the Caribbean
to join in the fun – conservation and destinations, including Trinidad,
cookery classes are enjoyable, too. Tobago, The Cayman Islands, The Come see the heady sights of the carnival
Bahamas, St. Kitts, Martinique, Antigua
Fish and sips and Barbuda, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent Bay Resort & Marina, Saint Lucia,
The Caribbean’s weekly fish-fry and The Grenadines, Grenada will show how it’s done, highlighting
street parties are as lively as they are and Anguilla. the traditional flavours and cooking
legendary. Dance to the Bajan beat Now in its 12th year, the St. Kitts’ techniques of Caribbean cuisine. Its
at Oistins Friday Night Fish Fry in Music Festival is held between 27 June chef-led ‘Farm to Table’ tour shows
Barbados and tuck into lip-smacking and 1 July. Headliners confirmed so far guests how to cook produce from the
barbecued seafood. include Lauryn Hill and Patti Labelle. hotel kitchen garden. For guests with
‘Lime’ (Creole for ‘hang out’) with Saint Lucia’s festival season an artistic ‘palette’, there’s an
the locals at Sunday School in Buccoo, sizzles with Food & Rum art tour around a painter’s
Tobago, and tuck into crab cakes and
conch at the Anse La Raye (fish fry) and
(January), Jazz (May),
Roots & Soul (31 August–
tip studio, too.
Guests at The Colony
e shy :
Gros Islet (street party) in Saint Lucia. 2 September) and Don’t b l or a Club, Barbados, can
c a
ask a lo loyee to
Then there’s the weekly fish fry in Turks Arts & Heritage (all of l em p learn how to catch their
hote ere to
& Caicos, every Thursday evening. October). Barbados’ co m m end wh eat. own supper on its ‘Bait
re what to
On Nevis, Nisbet Plantation Beach Food & Rum festival go and l know the to Plate’ tour and
il
They w places
Club takes guests on a pub crawl away takes place in November. best chefs will cook their
from the usual tourist trail. The Chocolate Fest catch afterwards.
Antigua & Barbuda’s Beach Bar (May) is Grenada’s sweetest On Antigua, foodies can
GOING LOCAL
W
Trail takes you to foodie gems and treat. A packed programme of learn to cook with rum at Nicole’s
hidden hangouts that only locals know cocoa-inspired attractions, events and Table. The class is just one of several
about. Islander Nicole Arthurton offers
Caribbean cookery classes and rum
plantation tours includes facials, pop-
up restaurants, yoga and meditation.
offered by ex-chef Nicole Arthurton
Dennis at her lovely home in St Johns. F
tastings with food pairings – delicious!
Spice it up
You’ll tuck into the delicious food you
C
H
Don’t miss the buzzing Sunday prepare while drinking in superlative
evening party at Shirley Heights, where It ain’t half hot in the Caribbean – and views of the glittering Caribbean Sea.
you can also drink in superb bird’s eye
views of the English and Falmouth
we’re not just talking about the balmy
weather! Locals like their food hot Good sports S
Harbours below. and spicy, and the Capella Marigot Watch boats racing for glory in the
Y
F
18 caribbean.co.uk Lovethecaribbean @_LoveCaribbean
richness of its bird life, fish and in the Cayman Islands. It’s one of 35
bat species, and as one of the well-marked trails on the island, which
tip
s pays to
It alway a local
lk w ith
wa ee so
you’ll s
guide – re and learn
o
much m flora, fauna
e
about th land life
and is go
as you
A waterfall presents the perfect opportunity to cool off Getting outdoors and exploring is part of the appeal
you can follow yourself, or alternatively in London. The prize floral displays are island’s many trails. The paths are
join a free guided tour with Nature picked from plants raised in nurseries, surrounded by a wide diversity of
Cayman. Interpretive signs and ecology estates and private gardens around the vegetation. Cacti and shrubs dominate
panels provide information on local island, which can be visited on tours the lower parts, but the higher hikers
trees and plants. Try the moderate-level with local operator Caribbean Horizons. go, the greener and more colourful the
Lighthouse Footpath from Spot Bay that Stops may include Hyde Park Garden, plants and flowers become.
is a three-hour round trip – rare brown with its fine views over the capital, A highlight is climbing ‘The Quill’ for
boobies breed in the caves below. and the St Rose Nursery, which often phenomenal views of the neighbouring
provides the foliage for Chelsea. islands. Then comes the memorable
Private gardens tour, Grenada descent into the crater, where giant
Grenada is attractive to horticulturalists The Quill, St. Eustatius trees and pretty flowers grow in a world
– lin 2017 the island won its 13th Gold A visit to St. Eustatius is not complete all their own, and critters scurry across
Medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show without at least one hike along the the forest floor. •
Tortola
Puerto Rico
St. Maarten
St. Thomas
Guadeloupe
Martinique
15 Caribbean Grenada
Destinations. Trinidad
Guyana
Untitled-1 1
Stepsahead.indd.Subbed.RR.indd 21 04/04/2018
5/15/18 09:11
03:54 PM
visitcaymanislands.com
a jewel in the
Caribbean’s crown
W ith sweeping, soft-white
beaches and tranquil turquoise
seas, the Cayman Islands are a little
attractions continue to draw sun-
seekers, with the warm, friendly
nature of local Caymanians creating
the famous Bloody Bay Wall. With its
unspoilt natural beauty, Cayman Brac
makes for a perfect adventurous
pocket of heaven and promise an a seriously relaxed atmosphere. Caribbean holiday. Visitors can take in
idyllic island escape. Grand Cayman is the largest of the breathtaking view from the top of
The three islands of the three islands and the main the Bluff, explore the caves, or discover
Grand Cayman, Cayman Did you entry point for visitors. the many wrecks and reefs underwater.
know
that Bri
Brac and Little Cayman tish Airw Combining the best of both Whatever it is that calls you to the
offers fo a ys
are also steeped in a ur direc worlds, its cosmopolitan Cayman Islands, you can’t fail to be
flights a t
deep cultural history, week fro capital, George Town, entranced by the treasure trove of
London m
Heathro
celebrating their unique Grand C w to offers a lively range of bars, delights that await…
ayman?
seafaring heritage. restaurants, museums and
Visitors can sample local duty-free shopping, while in
culinary delicacies, dive the contrast, there’s a more laid-back
Kittiwake shipwreck, and discover vibe on the East End of the island. Here
the rare indigenous Blue Iguanas at you’ll find traditional hammock-strewn
the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. beaches and wooden fish-fry shacks.
Few other sun-kissed islands in the
Caribbean can offer this diversity It’s a family affair
of experiences all in one place. For those looking to expand their
holiday beyond Grand Cayman, the
A warm welcome sister islands offer a whole host of
The Cayman Islands caters for family different activities. Little Cayman, the
holidays, romantic escapes, culinary smallest of the three islands, has the
journeys, diving adventures and for feel of a private island with just a hand-
those simply looking to switch off. ful of intimate resorts. Many come to
The magical underwater scenery, relax on secluded beaches or explore
impressive culinary scene and cultural the dramatic underwater vistas of Take in the dramatic view from the Bluff, Cayman Brac
1 5
Unwind in paradise Natural wonders
With white sandy beaches, Nature-based activities to
crystal-clear waters and gently enjoy include bird watching
swaying hammocks, the at the islands’ sanctuaries
Cayman Islands are a natural and kayaking through
backdrop for some R&R. As mangroves to learn about
well as the peace and serenity different flora and fauna.
of the islands, there are several spa and Naturalists will love the Queen Elizabeth
fitness options. Whether it’s SUP yoga II Botanic Park where the rare, native
on the serene sea, a reviving massage Blue Iguana roams, and marvel at
to help with jetlag or a body scrub using the spectacular Crystal Caves. And of
natural ingredients, it’s the perfect place course, there’s another world ripe for
to detoxify mind, body and soul. The uninhabited Owen Island off Little Cayman is perfect for two exploration under the sea…
3
Made for two
With sun-drenched beaches,
pristine blue oceans and
hammocks wide enough
for two to enjoy an evening
under the stars, the Cayman
Islands provides an island
experience just made for sharing.
Couples looking to tie the knot in
paradise or those recently married
and looking to get away from it all
will fall in love with the Cayman
2 6
Paddleboarding into the sunset Islands’ secluded beauty. Get lost in the nature of the Cayman Islands
4
in clear shallow waters. Swashbuckling shenanigans during Pirates Week of Cayman, both take place in January.
wired!
feeling
…on dry land an exhilarating tubing adventure in activity is also offered by the Four
Enjoy horse-riding in Nevis and Belize’s Cayo District. Seasons hotel in Nevis.
Jamaica. A Surf & Turf experience at Guests staying at BodyHoliday and Bird-watching is a popular activity
Half Moon, Montego Bay, Jamaica, Rendezvous, Saint Lucia, will be tested in Belize and Guyana, with 900 species
includes a guided trek and a swim to their limits with the resort’s new of our feathered friends waiting to be
alongside your horse (over-10s only). adventure activities, which include rock spotted in Guyana alone. They include
The Bahamas, Barbados and climbing up Signal Peak, abseiling 66ft the toco toucan, scarlet macaw, harpy
Jamaica offer some of the region’s down the Errand Waterfall, extreme eagle and blood-coloured woodpecker.
top golf courses, but you’ll also find mountain biking, high-performance Belize is also home to the world’s
challenging fairways and greens sailing, and hiking up the Pitons. first jaguar reserve, Cockscomb Basin
on Tobago, Martinique (Golf Wildlife Sanctuary, and a sanctuary
de la Martinique), Puerto
Rico (Dorado Beach),
tip s
Walk on the wild side
With its glorious
for howler monkeys.
Look out for scarlet ibis on Trinidad
ort
sive res
Anguilla, Haiti (nine-hole All-inclu at way to abundance of exotic and Tobago. Known locally as ‘flamingo,’
re
Petionville Club), and are a g w ithout flora and fauna, the they can be found in the Caroni Bird
tiv e
be ac ank,
g the b
Mullet Bay Golf Club on breakin out which Caribbean is the Sanctuary in the Caroni Swamp, an area
ck
St. Maarten. but che ities are perfect place to go wild. set aside by the government for the
activ
d in the Swim with pigs in the protection of these colourful birds.
include e
Adventures of a tourist p ric Exuma islands and feed And don’t miss a visit to the Asa
Get a bird’s-eye view of the iguanas at Allan’s Cay, both Right Nature Reserve, located among
rainforest on lofty zip-lines in in The Bahamas, or swim with mountains deep in Trinidad’s rainforest.
Belize, Haiti, Jamaica, Grenada, dolphins in the British Virgin Islands, It is known for its wonderful diversity
Saint Lucia, Trinidad, Antigua and Cuba, St. Kitts, Jamaica and Haiti. of animal and plant species. For
St. Kitts, enjoy breathtaking views of Go turtle-watching in Tobago with butterfly lovers, many rare and exotic
Grand Cayman’s coral reefs from a guides from SOS (Save our Sea Turtles) types can be found, flitting and
helicopter flown by a former stunt pilot – and then adopt one through the flutttering all around, at the Butterfly
or ramp up the action further by taking charity afterwards. A turtle-monitoring Farm on Saint-Martin. •
tropics
HIGHS & LOWS
Turtle watch, Barbados Rhythm & Spice, Belize Wynne Farm, Haiti
and Tobago Learn Garifuna It’s all about
For a once-in-a-lifetime drumming, dancing environmental
experience, join a and drum-making at preservation and
conservation project the thatched Warasa education at this
in Tobago or Barbados and help Garifuna Drum school in Punta Gorda nature reserve and agro-forest in the
ensure the survival of this endangered (warasadrumschool.com), in the mountains of Kenscoff (wynnefarm.org).
species. The Barbados Sea Turtle company of parakeets and howler As well as talks on deforestation and soil
Project, founded over 25 years ago monkeys. The full-day and half-day erosion in Haiti, visitors are introduced
(barbadosseaturtles.org), recruits local courses are suitable for all ages, even to ecological farming, composting,
and international volunteers between those with no rhythm or two left feet. flower production, water irrigation and
November and May to collect scientific Traditional ‘hudut’ cooking lessons bee keeping. They can also learn how to
data, and assist with sea turtle rescues. and lunch are also available, so you recycle plastics and make brackets from
They have a 24-hour ‘sea turtle hotline’, can sample the traditional delights of waste paper. The kids will love it too, as
and the training includes interacting FuFu (mashed plantain) and coconut there is an animal sanctuary of rabbits,
with nesting females – there are around fish stew at first hand. There’s more goats, horses, dogs and a donkey, which
500 in Barbados – without disturbing drumming and cooking at the Belize they can touch and interact with – plus
them, and safely relocating a nest. Spice Farm (belizespicefarm.com). horseback rides too.
CRUISING/SHOPPING
Islands or Antigua, or among turtles Shore excursions also provide a train was once used to transport sugar
in St. Vincent & The Grenadines. delicious taster of each Caribbean cane from plantations around the
Those who are interested in exploring island’s food, history and culture. On island to the factory.
Martinique can sign up for canyoning, Saint Lucia, guests can even make Santiago de Cuba is Cuba’s second
hiking, ATVing (going off-road their own chocolate using beans largest city, and the place to see key
in an All Terrain Vehicle), or grown on the estate of landmarks of the Cuban Revolution
horseback riding; while a
stop in Curaçao will be
tip Boucan by Hotel Chocolat.
The 20-minute process
such as the Moncada Barracks and Plaza
de la Revolución. Céspedes Park offers
arket
remembered for the Most m lcome includes de-shelling the a slice of Cuban colonial culture.
w e
traders ering, but
island’s Dutch colonial b art
friendly first. On more
ck
architecture, busy capital do che ive islands, it
and fascinating history exclus t be the
may no ing!
museums. d on e th
And surely nothing can be
as magical as a bioluminescent
sunset kayak trip in San Juan, the
capital of Puerto Rico, where tiny
dinoflagellates make the waters glow
magically.
Or for a little culture, cruisers stopping
in Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince can
visit The Musée du Panthéon National
Haïtien, which honours the nation’s
history and founding fathers.
Local rum and coastal views are
available in equal measure on a Rhum
Runner boat trip for Fred. Olsen
passengers looking to explore Grenada.
There’s also hiking through the Grand
Etang Park to the island’s magnificent
Seven Sisters Waterfalls.
Of course, you don’t have to make a
splash to enjoy the huge selection of
shore excursions on offer in the region. Leave the ocean behind for a little while…
In St. Maarten, take a fascinating bars and dining spots and the colourful
tour around the homes of native floating market, where fruit vendors
Kunstenaars (indigenous artists) and from Venezuela dock to sell their range
learn about their personal stories of wares. There are duty-free boutiques
and history from their living relatives. and department stores aplenty on
Broad Street in Bridgetown, Barbados,
Retail therapy a short walk from the cruise terminal.
Savvy shoppers can shop ’til they For high-end luxe, visit Limegrove
drop – or until their ship leaves – in shopping mall in Holetown, nearby.
the Caribbean’s cruise ports. Whether In Philipsburg, St. Maarten, the Dutch-
it’s high-end duty-free watches and side terminal boasts all of
jewellery you’re after, local crafts and the big duty-free brands; on the
souvenir trinkets to take home, or a French side, Saint-Martin’s open-air Bridgetown, Barbados is a stone’s throw from the terminal
couple of bottles of your favourite water-front market in Marigot is
Caribbean rum, there’s usually an the place to spend time browsing some lively bars in the terminal, too.
eclectic selection of shops just steps for cute trinkets and souvenirs. Shopping areas close to Heritage Quay
away from the ship’s gangway. The Bahamas offers retail therapy and Redcliffe Quay in downtown St
In Martinique’s Fort-de-France, visitors opportunities galore. The Bay Street John’s, Antigua, offer local arts, crafts,
can work their way through the best of shopping hub in Nassau is close to jewellery and perfumes.
French fashion and perfumes, as well as Prince George Wharf, and Paradise Ocho Rios is Jamaica’s main cruise
Creole crafts and jewellery. Island’s retail outlets are just a port, and the Island Village shopping
In Curaçao, downtown Willemstad (a 10-minute water taxi ride away. centre is handily just steps away
UNESCO World Heritage site) is a port Puerto Rico’s cruise terminal is from the main pier.
favourite for cruise-goers. The town’s right in the centre of San Juan’s Passengers disembarking in George
winding streets are filled with inviting cobblestoned old town. Here, stores Town, Grand Cayman, will find shopping
sell everything from duty-free jewellery malls, boutiques, and duty-free shops
to artisan crafts. A short cab ride away along the waterfront Harbour Street –
in Avenida Ashford, Condado, the and the Cayman craft market is perfect
products are all Gucci and gold. for art and handmade souvenirs.
The Port Zante cruise terminal in In Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital,
St. Kitts, a few blocks from downtown the large covered bazaar of the Iron
Basseterre, the capital, offers more Market has been welcoming visitors
than 60 duty-free shops, including for well over 100 years. With stalls
plenty selling ‘well-priced’ jewellery – piled high with local produce and
but be prepared to negotiate! If you handicraft stalls, serious shoppers
need a refreshment stop, there are will be in seventh heaven. •
plantations
The Caribbean’s
scenery is not just
phenomenally pretty
to look at; the land
also yields a rich
bounty of produce.
Here are six ways to
discover more…
Jamaica
the ultimate escape
1 5
River rafting Jerk
Rafting on the Martha Brae It has to be said that
boasts a complement of 85 Jamaica has the tastiest
licensed and experienced raft street food, and the most
captains. The 30-foot long common street food is jerk
hand-made bamboo raft ride chicken and pork. Jerk is
is operated over a three mile a way of cooking native
stretch of the beautiful Martha Brae to Jamaica, where meat is dry-rubbed
River and lasts around an hour. Once on or marinated with a hot spice mixture,
the raft, guests sit back and relax whilst making it tender and tasty. The sauce is
being punted slowly down the river. added to chicken, pork, shellfish or beef,
Learn about ‘The Legend of Martha Brae’ which is barbecued on whatever the
or enjoy an exhilarating swim. Rose Hall Great House locals can construct as a grill.
3
Rose Hall Great House
The White Witch awaits you
in the great house at Rose
Hall. Dead for more than a
century, Annie Palmer still
stirs memories of her reign
as the mistress of the Rose
Hall Great House. Cursed by slaves, the
White Witch Annie Palmer, turned a
magnificent plantation into a hell house
of atrocities. Countless slaves fell prey to
her torture, and all three of her husbands
2 6
Martha Brae Rafting met their death at her hands. Jerk streetfood
4
Caribbean, if not the world. Mystic Mountain Bob Sled displays Marley’s personal treasures.
Barbados and Antigua, offer lessons for In Saint Lucia, Anse Chastanet such as La Luna in Grenada, which
a nominal fee (starting at $100). Resort offers week- comes with an Asian spa, beachfront
Sailing is another classic skill to long courses in yoga pavilion, sustainable organic
master here and a good way underwater garden and state-of-the-art gym.
to meet people – give it photography, In Jamaica, the seaside Go Natural
a try in the blissful including Sanctuary runs retreats devoted to
waters camera rental ‘getting back into balance’ through
and 12 dives in a yoga and meditation, while the Kariwak
marine reserve Holistic Haven in Tobago also offers
close to the complimentary yoga or tai chi classes
tip famous Piton every single morning.
On Montserrat, biking is a great way
cial mountains.
the offi
This is Wellness to discover the island while enjoying
f
‘Year o nation’ in
juve
and Re bean; it’s the
Fit for spectacular views of the ocean and the
b
the Cari xcuse to kick purpose sweep of lush green hills, which have
e ct e
pe rf arge
ba ck and rech s Several more than a passing resemblance to
tte rie
your ba resorts offer the Irish countryside.
tip
oga at
Scuba y lue Bay
ru e B
the T ada
in Gren
Resort nfidence
o
builds c r through
ate
underw tion and With its English-, French-,
medita ise Dutch- and Spanish-
exerc speaking islands, the
Caribbean is an ideal place
to learn a new language
Soak it up At the Fern Tree Spa at Half Moon pampered in both hillside or over-the-
In Saint Lucia, the treatments at Jade in Jamaica, guests can treat themselves water treatment suites, while the one-
Mountain’s Eco Spa sound good to a traditional Jamaican Bush Bath, room Sunset Spa at Turtle Inn in Belize is
enough to eat! They feature an organic using waters steeped in healing set inside an elegant Balinese rice house.
chocolate facial, mango body scrub and herbs, roots and fruits. Guests who book an all-inclusive spa
a de-stress massage using black pepper, Or float away with an ‘Island Drift’ package at Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort
rosemary and ginger. ritual – which starts with a rum and in Tobago can claim a 30-minute taster
At COMO Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos, coconut foot soak – on offer at treatment for each day of their stay.
which now has a new COMO Shambhala Malliouhana hotel, on Anguilla, when it Elegant Hotels’ Waves Hotel & Spa in
gym, therapies include a massage re-opens in spring 2018. Barbados provides a complimentary
using hot, oiled river stones as well as At the Pink Sands Club on Canouan, steam room and sauna plus free health
Ayurvedic treatments. in The Grenadines, clients can be treatments and fitness classes. •
www.trintours.com
36_37_Soak_itup
tobago_V2.indd 1Subbed.RR_V3.indd 37 5/14/18
4/20/18 01:03
03:24 PM
cooking up a
storm
Fancy tucking into some ‘léchon asado’ or
drinking ‘ti-punch’? The Caribbean bursts
with flavours to be enjoyed everywhere, from
castaway beach bars to top-end restaurants
oo
ke is a g
as Macoucherie on Rum ca ke home Festival (May), while
Dominica and River gift to ta – there are barbecue-lovers should
ds
for frien ersions, but
Antoine in Grenada (in a ny v s head for the Portland
m e agree
action since 1785). everyon rincipal Jerk Festival (July) in
p
on the ient!
In Martinique, where ing red Jamaica. Tobago stages
rhum agricole is produced a Blue Food Festival
directly from crushed sugar (October) that celebrates
cane, you can follow a self-guided dasheen, a root crop that turns
Route des Rhums covering 12 distilleries, blue on cooking, while on Turks &
while in Haiti, tours can be arranged of Caicos, there’s a popular Conch Festival
the Barbancourt Rum Distillery. Some (November). The same month also sees
hotels take a special interest in rum, the Anegada Lobster Festival in the
such as Itz’ana Resort and Residences British Virgin Islands and a Food and
in Belize which has a ‘rummelier’ Rum Festival in Barbados. • There’s an abundance of local-eating experiences
Long Island
Mexico
Cuba
Cayman Brac
Cayman Islands
Little Cayman
Grand Cayman
Jamaica
Belize
Honduras
Nicaragua
THE CARIBBEAN
Belize
Guyana
Costa Rica
W E
Haiti
British Virgin
Islands
Saint-Martin
Puerto Rico Anguilla / St. Maarten
Antigua
& Barbuda
Dominican US Virgin St. Eustatius
Republic Islands Guadeloupe
St. Kitts
Nevis
Montserrat Dominica
Saint Lucia
St. Vincent
& The Grenadines
Aruba Barbados
Bonaire
Grenada
Trinidad
Curaçao
& Tobago
Venezuela
Guyana
ANGUILLA
+(44) 20 7736 6030 ivisitanguilla.com AnguillaOfficial @Anguilla_Trsm info@anguilla-tourism.com
KEY EVENT
Summer Festival
sees the island come
together to enjoy
music, pageantry and
boat racing.
FAST FACTS
Antigua has 365
T he largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua
& Barbuda comprises 108-square miles.
The 365 white and pink sand beaches are just the
while adrenalin seekers can experience rainforest
ziplining, off-road buggies, and swimming with
stingrays. Antigua is the Caribbean’s premier
beaches – one for beginning of the island’s treasures. Popular with sailing destination and hosts the Classic Yacht
every day of the year families and couples alike, the island offers luxury Regatta and the annual Antigua Sailing Week now
Nelson’s Dockyard resorts and boutique guesthouses surrounded by in its 51st year. The island boasts a varied tourism
is the world’s only idyllic beaches and rainforests. History buffs can calendar including the vibrant Antigua carnival
working Georgian
enjoy cultural sights such as the UNESCO heritage and the mango festival. Foodies can enjoy classic
dockyard
site of Nelson’s Dockyard, the island’s first sugar Caribbean cuisine, and a host of beach bars
There are over 24 mills and the natural wonder of Devil’s Bridge, offering rum cocktails and local delicacies.
different destination
excursions, including
swimming and
snorkelling with
stingrays
The islands are
known as the sailing
and romance capital
of the Caribbean.
KEY EVENT
Antigua Carnival – the
Caribbean’s greatest
Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
summer festival is
held annually and the
Antigua Sailing Week
BAHAMAS
+44 (0) 20 7355 0800 bahamas.com BTO1973 @Explore_Bahamas info@bahamas.co.uk
FAST FACTS
FAST FACTS
E ach of the sixteen main islands has its own
different charm while having in common the
warmth of the Bahamian people.
seeing the swimming pigs usually inspire a first
visit to the islands.
The lure of pink sand beaches on Harbour Island
BA flies direct to
Nassau every
Held August,
4 times a Stunning coral pink, soft white or golden sand or pretty in pink flamingos on Inagua puts the
the
weekVincent
from UKSummer
+ airline beaches, internationally recognised as some of exploration of other islands on the bucket-list..
Festival sees the
routes through USisland
to
and visitors the most beautiful, and waters the clearest in the Blissful relaxation, exhilarating challenges and
many of the come
islands.
together to enjoy world guarantee time spent at the shore, on or in real once-in-a-lifetime adventures beckon in The
Guana Grabber and
music, pageantry –a
the water is a delightful ‘must-do’. Islands Of The Bahamas and the waters that
rum
boatbased
racingfruit
Heldpunch.
every The famous resorts of Nassau/Paradise Island, the surround them. Do everything or nothing at all –
August,
Conchthe salad,
sheer fun of the island rhythms and the draw of It’s Better In The Bahamas.
pronounced
Vincent Summer ‘konk’,
is finely chopped
Festival sees the island
seafood withcome
and visitors
tomatoes,toonion,
together enjoy
peppers and a
music, pageantry and
squeeze
boat of fresh
racing Vincent
orange and lime.
Summer Festival
sees
KEYthe island and
EVENT
visitors come together
Holiday high point
Summer Festival sees
- Junkanoo Festival
on
KEY Boxing
EVENT Day +
New Year, regular
Summer Festival
celebrations and
sees the island and
Junkanoo Summer in
visitors come together
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
July/August.
Summer Festival sees
the island and visitors
come together to
KEY EVENT
Crop Over runs from
June 24 to August
6 and The Barbados
Food and Rum Festival
runs from 18-21
October.
BELIZE
+44 (0) 20 7326 9880 travelbelize.org travelbelize @Belizevacation belize@brightergroup.com
KEY EVENT
Belize Tourist Board
recently changed the
Belize slogan in 2017
from “Discover How
to Be” to “ A Curious
Place”
FAST FACTS
Situated between
T he natural allure and mystique of the British
Virgin Islands (BVIs) beckons many to
discover the enriching personality and charm
a hammock suspended between swaying palm
trees or retreat to your own private cove to leave
your footprints in the sand.
the Atlantic and the of the 60 islands and cays that comprise this For the uninhibited, island hopping around the
Caribbean Sea, just archipelago. British Virgin Islands is the best way to appreciate
east of Puerto Rico,
For many, the exciting journey of Nature’s Little the contrasts between these unique islands where
the British Virgin
Islands is a family of Secrets begins by exploring our tranquil shores one can experience the ruins, national parks,
60 islands and cays or navigating through the deep to discover exotic cultural exhibits and dine on signature culinary
Connecting airports marine life. In the British Virgin Islands every dishes, as well as simply enjoying some peace
surround the BVIs, day is a tropical dream where you can relax in and tranquillity.
making arrivals and
departures from
Tortola (EIS) an easy
part of your journey.
You can fly into
Antigua (ANU), St.
Maarten (SXM) or
San Juan (SJU). The
average temperature
is between 26-30°C
KEY EVENT
The British Virgin
Islands’ Spring Regatta
& Sailing festival is one
of the largest regattas
in the Caribbean.
CAYMAN ISLANDS
+44 (0) 20 7491 7771 visitcaymanislands.com EuropeVisitCaymanIslands @cayman_islands info-uk@caymanislands.ky
KEY EVENT
The Pirates Week
Festival takes place
every November with
swashbuckling, sea
shanties and a live
pirate invasion!
KEY EVENT
Curaçao North Sea
Jazz takes place at the
end of August with
three days of music.
DOMINICA
+44 (0) 20 7326 9880 discoverdominica.com DiscoverDominica @nature_island dominica@brightergroup.com
KEY EVENT
October - World
Creole Music Festival
- 3 nights of the best
creole music from
around the world.
Dominicafestivals.com
FAST FACTS
Carriacou hosts
D iscover Pure Grenada - Welcome to the
Spice of the Caribbean; a place where
untouched beauty meets our warm and
unspoilt landscapes are undiscovered by crowds
and include mountains, rainforests and idyllic
waterfalls. The island of Grenada is a treasure
Shakespeare Mas friendly people. The islands offers a lifestyle trove of culture, where visitors can visit a rum
every February - so pure and authentic that you feel instantly factory that continues to mash its sugar cane
Hear locals dressed
renewed, boasting silky stretches of white sand with an 18th Century water wheel. Or visitors can
in bright costumes
engage in a battle beaches, including the award winning Grand enjoy the islands renowned chocolate or spice
of words hoping Anse Beach; sunken treasures adorned by corals plantations, and take home award winning vegan
not to fumble on and the world’s first Underwater Sculpture chocolate and organic spices including nutmeg.
their lines otherwise Park, and marine protected area. The island’s Join us and take a journey like never before.
surrendering to
a stroke of their
opponent’s stick!
Rain showers are
known as ‘liquid
sunshine’
English is the official
language
KEY EVENT
Grenada Chocolate
Festival - Every May
GUYANA
+592 219 0094 guyana-tourism.com GuyanaUndiscovered @TourismGuyana info@guyana-tourism.com
FAST FACTS
Only South
N estled on the North Eastern corner of
the South American continent, Guyana
stretches 270 miles along the Atlantic coastline
For the adventurers, Guyana is a place of
wonder- trek through the jungle, tramp the forest
trails and ride with the vaqueros. For the nature
American country into dense tropical forest and the broad lovers, Guyana is a country where nature has
where English is the
savannahs of the Rupununi. placed its greatest riches.
official language.
The landscape is dominated by mighty rivers, Feel the beauty of nature as it whispers across
Nature and
including the Demerara, the Berbice and your heart. Encounter an experience never
adventure destination
with over 910 species Essequibo, which provide essential access to the to be forgotten. Discover the extraordinary
of birds, 6000 species rainforest and jungles of the interior. Guyana is an wilderness to be found in Guyana, South America
of plants, 700 species exciting new destination waiting to be explored. Undiscovered.
of fish and 200
species of mammals.
Rich community
tourism experiences
with warm and
hospitable people.
KEY EVENT
Guyana Carnival: May
18 - 27
Rockstone Fish
Festival: October 27
- 28
Rupununi Rodeo: April
20-21, 2019
KEY EVENT
National Carnival
yearly in februrary Le
Getaway Isalnd party
in May/ December
SumFest haitian music
Festival in July
JAMAICA
+44 (0) 20 7225 9090 visitjamaica.com visitjamaicauk @visitjamaicauk mail@visitjamaica.com
KEY EVENT
Reggae Marathon
(December), Jamaica
Jazz & Blues Festival
(January), Reggae
Sumfest (July),
Independence Day
(6th August)
FAST FACTS
Martinique is a
M artinique is a very dense and rich mixture
of landscapes, cultures, activities. Spend
your day surfing on the different spots, or at the
activities you can experience on this little piece of
paradise. The extent of Martinique’s food culture
is impressive, and one of the best assets of the
French Caribbean water’s edge on the beautiful beaches of white, island. Taking inspiration from many cultures, you
island. grey, golden sand and turquoise water. Explore will be able to sample not only local cuisine but
The official language the amazing underwater wildlife during dive also dishes inspired by countries from all over the
is French excursions. Enter the tropical forest and climb the world (South America, Asia, Africa, France) and
The island measures Mount Pelée. Witness major cultural event of fete revisited like you’ve never seen before. And then
1,100 squares miles. such as the Carnival in February or the unique there’s Martinique’s famous rum. It will not take
Temperature “Tour des Yoles” in July. Some of the various long for you to fall in love with this amazing island.
balance between 25°C
and 30°C all year long.
The currency is the
euro.
The population of
Martinique is 403 000.
The main city is Fort
de France.
The local tipple? Try
a sorbet coco.
KEY EVENT
Martinique comes
alive with the rhythm
of parades during
Carnival – March,2019.
MONTSERRAT
+1 664 491 4703/4700 visitmontserrat.com islandofmontserrat @islandofmni info@montserrattourism.ms
FAST FACTS
Montserrat, a
F ondly known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ of the
Caribbean, this pear-shaped island is
a traveller’s paradise for nature lovers, divers,
green mountains, world-class nature, hiking trails,
deserted dark sand beaches, untouched reefs
and a friendly charm reminiscent of the way the
lush green and adventurers, families, villa vacationers Caribbean used to be.
mountainous island
and honeymooners. Montserrat offers a unique niche of
of around 39 square
miles, lies 27 miles The former capital city (the star attraction) ‘residential tourism’, boasting some exclusive
southwest of Antigua . Plymouth, is buried in volcanic ash, a accommodation, all of which provides a serene
It is one of 14 UK transformation that likens this British Overseas and comfortable lifestyle with all the amenities for
Overseas Territories, Territory to a modern-day Pompeii. a laid-back, Caribbean island getaway in this well-
governed by an In contrast, the rest of the island flourishes with kept secret.
elected premier and
parliament.
Daily flights to
and from Antigua on
FlyMontserrat and SVG
Air connect with the
rest of the Caribbean,
North America and
Europe. A Ferry
service from Antigua
is also available.
KEY EVENT
Montserrat celebrates
St. Patrick’s Day with
a week-long festival
from March 10-17.
KEY EVENT
Nevis Mango and
Food Festival - July,
5-8 2018 - The annual
festival is the
highlight of the island’s
culinary scene.
PUERTO RICO
+34 91 431 2128 SeePuertoRico.com SeePuertoRico @SeePuertoRico marimar.lidin@tourism.pr.gov
KEY EVENT
Saturdays at 7.30pm
- Salsa nights on the
Terrace on Sol Street
to learn the legendary
Salsa vibes.
KEY EVENT
The Statia Carnival is
held every year in the
last two weeks of July.
The week is filled with
Cees Timmers Photography
ST. KITTS
+44 (0) 20 7376 0881 stkittstourism.kn StKittsTourismUK @StKittsTourism uk@stkittstourism.kn
KEY EVENT
The 22nd Annual St.
Kitts Music Festival
takes place 27 June
- 1 July, showcasing a
range of international
headliners.
KEY EVENT
Saint Lucia Soleil
Summer Festival has
great events during
the year. Visit stlucia.
org/summerfestival
ST. MAARTEN
+1 721 549 0200 vacationstmaarten.com vacationstmaarten @vacationsxm info@vacationstmaarten.com
KEY EVENT
St. Maarten Carnival is
a colourful and cultural
occasion which takes
St Maarten Tourist Bureau
SAINT-MARTIN
+33 1 5329 99 99 stmartinisland.org ot.sxm @ilesaintmartin paris@iledesaintmartin.org
KEY EVENT
The Sea Festival
takes place on
the last weekend
of May, including
entertainment on land
FAST FACTS
Electricity voltage is
S t. Vincent (SVG) and the Grenadines is
undoubtedly one of the most diverse
destinations for extended and twin - centered
Regatta, who knows while on board your yacht
you may be in for a treat by dolphins .
While immersed in the warm hospitality of
220 volts-50 cycles holidays. This chain of 32 islands and cays is Vincentians, visitors are also invited to explore
UK passport holders abound with rare and exotic marine life for the lush varied landscape, nature trails, majestic
do not require visas underwater lovers. Scuba divers will be spoil for waterfalls, river picnics, hike the Soufriere volcano
It is illegal to wear choices with over 100 dive sites and the clear, and visit the award winning St. Vincent Distillers
camouflage clothing on uncrowded waters are excellent for snorkeling. Ltd where they can sample the local rum.
the islands
SVG continues to attract the sailing enthusiast Come ashore “The Caribbean you’re looking for
Water is safe to for leisure and events such as the Bequia Easter “and be part of the multi island diversity!
drink, but bottled
water is available
The Eastern
Caribbean Dollar is the
local currency.
Credit Cards accepted.
Bequia Easter
Regatta is a major
event in the
Grenadines.
KEY EVENT
Breadfruit festival is
celebrated in the
month of August.
(National dish
Breadfruit and
Saltfish).
KEY EVENT
Carnival, Bucco
Goat & Crab Race
Festival, Tobago Jazz
Experience, The Blue
Food Festival, Tobago
Heritage Festival.
KEY EVENT
Maskanoo on Boxing
Day, The Regatta in
South Caicos; Lobster
& Conch Fest; In The
Pink where fashion
meets philanthropy.
CAYMAN ISLANDS
from UK airports and those that fly via
BARBADOS
ANGUILLA
BAhAMAS
another Caribbean island/country.
BELIZE
CHARTERED SERVICES
Thomas Cook Airlines 08444 125 959 thomascookairlines.com D D
SCHEDULED SERVICES
Air Canada 00800 669 92222 aircanada.com I I I I I
Air Europa 0044 87142 30717 aireuropa.com
REGIONAL SERVICES
Air Antilles 00 590 590 211 447 airantilles.com I
Air Caraïbes 0033 0820 835 835 aircaraibes.com
PUERTO RICO
The information below has been compiled
MARTINIQUE
SAINT LUCIA
as a reference, based on the available
DOMINICA
CURAÇAO
GRENADA
JAMAICA
ST. KITTS
GUYANA
Indirect Connections
I D D From London Gatwick and Manchester
via
I I I I I I I I I I I I I Toronto, Montreal
I Madrid
I I I I I I I Paris
I I I I Paris, Amsterdam
I Rome
I I I Paris
I Madrid
I I I I I I l Amsterdam, Paris
I D D I Saint Lucia
I I I I I I I I Toronto, Montreal
from
I i I I I I Guadeloupe/Martinique
I I I I Guadeloupe/Martinique
I Anguilla
I Nassau
I Panama
i I I I I I I I I I Montserrat, Antigua
I I I I I I Puerto Rico
I I I I I I I I I I I I Anguilla
I I I I I I I I St. Maarten
BARBADOS
ANGUILLA
BAHAMAS
TOUR OPERATORS
puerto rico
martinique
saint lucia
DOMINICA
CURAÇAO
GRENADA
jamaica
st. kitts
GUYANA
BELIZE
nevis
haiti
Blue Waters Resort & Spa “Give us your body for a week and Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises
Blue Waters Resort & Spa is a
we’ll give you back your mind” Crystal Esprit, our elegant 62-guest
luxury resort on the North coast Set on a secluded cove of white-sand yacht, sails 7-night round-trips from
of Antigua. It has recently won beach and surrounded by tropical Marigot Bay during the winter
‘Antigua’s leading hotel in 2017’ gardens and rainforest, BodyHoliday months, visiting secluded harbours,
in the World Travel Awards and in Saint Lucia is the ultimate escape. coves and islands not accessible to
offers first class service. In 2017, it A wellness resort with daily inclusive larger ships. Swim & kayak directly
completed a multi-million-dollar spa treatments with a comprehensive from the onboard marina and explore
refurbishment, which activity schedule included in the price, below the waves in its very own
includes a new-look lobby & bar, the BodyHoliday strikes the right submersible; snorkel among colourful
as well as enhancements to the kids balance for those in search of a truly fish or relax on deck with a cocktail in
club & restaurants across the resort. rejuvenating getaway. hand - the choice is yours!
reservations@bluewaters.net u.k.reservations@sunsweptresorts.com sales@cruiseportfolio.co.uk
0870 360 1245 (US 1 800 557 6536) 0203 096 1633 020 7399 7601
bluewaters.net thebodyholiday.com crystalcruises.co.uk
bluewatershotel TheBodyHoliday crystalcruises
Editorial
Directory of members
The Caribbean Tourism Organization’s members are standing by to
book your flights, accommodation, cruises and much more.
LISTINGS
British Airways Blue Waters Resorts & Spa
Crystal Cruises 01344 887 003
0844 493 0787 0870 360 1245
@crystalcruises annabelle.marshall@fairmont.com
ba.com/caribbean res@bluewaters.net
fairmont.com/barbados
batraveltrade.com Cruise Lines International bluewaters.net
fairmonthotels
british airways Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland bluewatershotel
@FairmontHotels
@british_airways 020 3903 5450 @bluewatershotel
ukinfo@cruising.org Group Promotions
Boucan by Hotel Chocolat
LIAT cruiseexperts.org 01582 792 260
01763 257 734
+1 268 480 5601 cliaukireland sales@group-promotions.com
gemma.hussey@hotelchocolat.com
reservations@liatairline.com @CLIAUK info@group-promotions.com
hotelchocolat.com/uk/boucan
liat.com boucan by hotel chocolat group-promotions.com
liatairline Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines @hotelchocolat
@liatairline 0800 035 5242 Half Moon, A RockResort
Cara Hotel Marketing Ltd
res.services@fredolsen.co.uk +1 876 953 2211
Virgin Atlantic Airways 020 3959 0959
fredolsencruises.com slogan@halfmoon.com
0344 209 7705 fredolsencruiselines info@carahotelmarketing.com
halfmoon.com
0344 874 7747 @fredolsencruise carahotelmarketing.com
half moon jamaica
sales.support@fly.virgin.com
cara hotel marketing ltd
@halfmoonjamaica
customer.relations.uk@fly.virgin.com Royal Caribbean Cruise Line @carahotelmkt
Editorial
Marriott Hotels International Ltd Selling Travel Club Caribbee Steppes Travel
020 7012 7312 020 8649 7233 020 868 21115 03331 305 171
0800 221-222 sales@bmipublishing.co.uk sales@clubcaribbee.co.uk enquiry@steppestravel.com
marriott.com editorial@bmipublishing.co.uk clubcaribbee.co.uk steppestravel.com
Marriott sellingtravel.co.uk ClubCaribbeeLimited @steppestravel
@Marriott sellingtravelmag @ClubCaribbee @steppestravel
@Sellingtravmag ClubCaribbee steppes_travel
Resort Marketing International
01245 459 900 TTG Media Havanatour UK Ltd Sunsail
info@resort-marketing.co.uk 020 3714 4103 01707 646 463 033 0332 1172
resort-marketing.co.uk asohawon@ttgmedia.com sales@havanatour.co.uk sales@sunsail.com
resort marketing international ltd ttgmedia.com havanatour.co.uk sunsail.co.uk
@rmilimited TravelTradeGazette havanatour uk ltd SunsailUK
@TTGMedia @havanatouruk sunsailuk
Sandals & Beaches Resorts
08000 223 030 Travel Bulletin Kenwood Travel The Holiday Place
sales@sandals.co.uk 020 7834 6661 020 7749 9245 020 7644 1749
sandals.co.uk jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Caribbean@kenwoodtravel.co.uk reservations@theholidayplace.co.uk
sandalsresortsUK travelbulletin.co.uk kenwoodtravel.co.uk holidayplace.co.uk
@sandalsresorts TravelBulletin kenwoodtravel holidayplace
@Sandals_UK @TravelBulletin @kenwoodtravel @theholidayplace
kenwoodtravel
Sunrise Marketing Travel Weekly Travel Club Elite
01189 145 674 020 7881 4877 Kuoni Travel Ltd 0800 707 6229
Info@sunrisemarketing.co.uk mary.rega@travelweekly.co.uk 0800 092 4444 info@travelclubelite.com
sunrisemarketing.co.uk katie.mcgonagle@travelweekly.co.uk kuoni.co.uk traveclubelite.com
sunrise marketing travelweekly.co.uk holidays@kuoni.co.uk travelclubelite
@sunrise_uk travelweeklyuk kuonitraveluk @travelclubelite
@travelweekly @kuonitraveluk travelclubelite
SuperClubs travelweeklyuk
01934 740 467 MOT MOT Travel Tropic Breeze
martin.grass@superclubs.com Waterfront Publishing 01327 359622 01752 880 880
breezes.com 020 3865 9360 mail@motmottravel.com info@tropicbreeze.co.uk
BreezesResorts info@waterfront-publishing.com motmottravel.com tropicbreeze.co.uk
@breezes_resorts waterfront-publishing.com motmottravel tropicb
waterfront_publishing @motmot_travel @tropicb
The Liming Group motmot_travel tropicbreezeholidays
+44 (0) 131 297 0289
TOUR OPERATORS Newmont Travel Ltd
reservations@thelimingbequia.com.com Tropical Sky
thelimingbequia.com 020 8920 1144 01342 889 201
Audley Travel
The-Liming-Bequia sales@hotelsofthecaribbean.co.uk info@tropicalsky.co.uk
01993 838 275
@thelimingbequia hotelsofthecaribbean.co.uk tropicalsky.co.uk
audleytravel.com
thelimingbequia newmont.co.uk tropicalsky
Audley Travel
NewmontTravel @tropicalsky
@audleytravel
MEDIA/ONLINE audleytravel tropicalsky
Sackville Travel/Q Holidays
020 7326 7699 Virgin Holidays
Experience Engine British Airways Holidays
020 7326 3100 0344 557 4008
01245 207 888 0344 493 0120
sales@sackvilletravel.com virginholidays.co.uk
ajay@experienceengine.com ba.com/caribbean
Sackvilletravel.com virginholidays
experienceengine.com british airways
Experience Engine Qholidays.co.uk @virginholidays
@british_airways
Sackvilletravel
experiencengine
Caribtours @sackvilletravel
My Booking Rewards 020 7751 0660
07818 434 410 (mobile) escapes@caribtours.co.uk
enquiries@mybookingrewards.com caribtours.co.uk
mybookingrewards.com Luxury Tailormade Holidays
My Booking Rewards @Caribtours
@MyBookingReward Caribtours