Best Overall: Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth. Drug trafficking is a major concern here. Soak up the sounds on a Sunday night at the legendary street party,Buccoo Sunday School in Buccoo. Those with a sweet tooth might want to book a tour of theTobago Cocoa Estate. If youre into snorkeling, Grenada offers over 30 dive sites. A 2015 BBC report was widely criticized by St. Kitts and Nevis authorities for naming this Leeward Islands nation "the most violent place on earth." Surprisingly, these Caribbean destinations fall short of expectations, as evidenced by real (disappointed) tourist photos. The coastline offers abundant activities for the watersport enthusiast, including snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. It's not really the worst, but there are far better areas. For related lists, see below. 9. June 16, 2020. Langkawi, an archipelago on Malaysias west coast, has gotten a lot of hype recently for turquoise waters, picturesque beaches and jungle-clad hills. The vibe on this island is laid-back, and it is a location that evades many people's radar as it is so understated. The Department of State says to exercise "increased caution" due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping, and warns against traveling to Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queen's Park Savannah in Port of Spain, citing violent crimes like murder, robbery, and assault as common. She enjoys uncovering niche culture scenes wherever she goes, and spreading the word about them. The island is only accessible by boat from The Maldives airport, but in the opposite direction from the majority of the nations resorts, placing the island on a quieter and virtually undisturbed atoll. Let nature soothe your soul. Puerto Rico is a large island without a whole lot of public transportation. Bananas alone account for more than 60% of the work force, and 50% of merchandise exports. Langkawi is actually known as the place to go to just shop for cheap stuff, not exactly what you think of when picturing a tropical getaway (Travel Triangle). One thing about the Caribbean islands isthe laid-back police force (there's a 99% chance you wouldn't get a stolen item back). Take an excursion to Long Cay, part of the Admiral Cockburn Land and Sea National Park, a protected area full of ospreys, egrets, herons and more. Try Guadeloupes delectable creole cuisine, which serves a mouthwatering blend of flavors in dishes like Fricasse de Lambi Queen Conch stew, and Calalou a spicy soup of spinach, pork, and land crab. Belize is one of the most exciting up and coming investment locations in the region. Prices vary across the island, and are lower in non-tourist areas. Dominica has many nooks and crannies you might not discover on your own. It is known as being a haven for diving and snorkeling because of the reefs surrounding the island. "Jamaica 2020 Crime & Safety Report." At 28,000 square acres, El Yunque is the only year-round tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system and is the oldest forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere. 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. Also not open year round: the famous Blue Grotto, which closes when theres too many clouds (without sunlight, it is simply a dark cave). Sean Pavone/Shutterstock. SAN ANDRS, COLOMBIA. Havana is well known for its lively entertainment featuring jazz, Latin music, dance, and copious amounts of rum-flavored drinks. There are two beaches here with possible dolphin- and humpback whale-sightings. While the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas are hot spots, the Caribbean is also home to locales without hordes of tourists and some where there is more wildlife than people. The twin-island federation of St Kitts and Nevis prospers primarily thanks to tourism and export-oriented manufacturing, as well as agriculture, with approximately 39% of the islands' land reserved to crops (primarily devoted to sugarcane and peanuts). From the powdery white sand beaches to the radiant blue waters, youll marvel at the wonder of this magical archipelago. Unlike most other Caribbean nations, its high-income economy is dependent, not on tourism, but on industry, with petrochemical and petrochemicals fueling a solid GDP growth. Cuba is the largest island country in the Caribbean . Grand Cayman. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Puerto Rico | Tours in Puerto Rico. St. Martin. Beyond their beautiful beaches, each of these most popular Caribbean islands has a wide range of top attractions, all just waiting to be explored! The Bahamas is also the third richest country in the Americas, following the United States and Canada. Two unique islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, make up this country that was once known as the gateway to the Caribbean. If you want to mix education and fun, St. Nicholas Abbey, one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean, is nearby. On the IG stories, Magen's Bay looks like heaven but is actually hell for tourists. Rude people, trash on the beaches & in the water, no greenery at all, & high crime. The name pretty much says it all: a beautiful beach where pigs swim around. TheNevis Equestrian Centre offers rides that include beaches, trails, and villages. Photo Credit: Bahamas Tourist Board. While it does have a homicide rate of 11 per 100,000 inhabitants, tourists are advised merely to pay attention to their belongings so as to avoid robbery, especially in the capital, Fort-de-France, and in the tourist-centric region of Pointe du Bout. Another good choice isThe Hermitageat the foot of a rainforest covered mountain. The Aruban People One of the main reasons why people are drawn to this small Southern Caribbean island is the people. Continue to 5 of 20 below. Grenada has a small, open economy that's largely tourism-based. Bermuda doesnt have to an overrated experience, but it takes a little more work than other Caribbean Islands to get the most out of it. Antigua Best for beaches Boasting a beach for each day of the year, low-lying Antigua in the Leeward Islands delivers a multitude of postcard-perfect beaches, with coral reefs just a flipper-kick from shore. All 28 Caribbean Countries, Ranked (and What to Do in Each) By Melody Wren and Mariana Zapata, updated on April 18, 2022. Some parts are currently in a state of emergency. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Martinique | Tours in Martinique. Rachel Cooper is a travel writer who has lived in the Washington, D.C., area for more than 25 years. The vendors are "a little too aggressive," and Sosua is very crowded during the weekends. Trinidad is beloved for its iconic carnival, but sister island Tobago is often overlooked. The snorkeling was amazing. Approximately 69% of the island's GDP emanates from the service industry. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. In November of 2011, Trinidad and Tobago was removed from the OECD's list of developing countries. For a quieter experience, head to theAndrosia Batik Factory where you can learn about the art of batik-making and try your hand at it. Unlike most Caribbean islands, Bonaire is located outside of Hurricane Alley and years go by without a single homicide on the island. Compared to the island of St. John nearby, Tortola is peanuts. The French island is a nature lovers paradise with spectacular waterfalls, natural rivers, and magnificent landscapes. The area has seen a rise in crime; "we were broken into twice a week," a tourist recounted on Trip Advisor. An ideal dual-island for luxury holidays, Antigua's economy prospers thanks to its tourism industry. Bearing in mind a wet season, possible hurricanes and a stretch of super-humid weather, here's when to visit Everglades National Park. She loves traveling the region in search of the best cultural and foodie adventures, places to stay and live/work opportunities. Best Caribbean Islands to Visit: Antigua and Barbuda Source: Sean Pavone/Unsplash Antigua and Barbuda are the islands you've been dreaming of. One of the most popular is Captain Bills Blue Hole inBlue Holes National Park. The Caribbean island of Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti towards its West and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region known for its lavish and stunning resorts, pristine and beautiful beaches, and amazing golfing premises. 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. Business Insider said it best: everyone stays in Atlantis, but no one seems to actually enjoy it. When looking for the cheapest airports in the Caribbean, fly into Santo Domingo via Las Amricas. Bahamas: Exuma Swimming with Pigs. Like all Caribbean destinations, they offer authentic and exciting experiences beyond sun, sand, and sea. From Negrils Seven Mile Beach in the west to breathtaking waterfalls in the east, Jamaica is well known as the playground of the English-speaking Caribbean. The Bahamas soars to the top of our list thanks to its prosperous tourism industry. In fact, it is the most crowded of all the Caribbean Islands. 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). US Virgin Island: Carnival Revelers. If you're planning a winter vacation, here are 13 lesser-known Caribbean islands to consider. In Kingston, explore the life and work of the legendary Bob Marley at his namesake museum and have lunch at Usain Bolts Tracks and Records. Planning tip: The Mandarin has a six-seat resort jet that can be booked as a shared or private charter from Barbados, St Lucia, Grenada, Martinique, and St Vincent airports. The United States territory ofPuerto Ricois generally safe to visit (especially parts like San Juan Viejo). The area is decent except that it's not like anything you see on those travel brochures. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved five Caribbean island destinations into its highest-risk travel category for Covid-19 on Monday. 5. "People didn't care about the garbage they throw around." 2. The third largest Caribbean island, Jamaica is one of the most popular and well-known tourist destinations in the region. Martinique is also home to a dolphin sanctuary where visitors can enjoy dolphin watching and view several species all year round. Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is one of the most unique Caribbean islands. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Read our Privacy Policy. Get to Nassau, hop on a commuter flight, take a cab to the dock and board a water taxi that takes you to Kamalame Cay, a private island in Andros in the Bahamas. Most describe this popular Italian island as overpriced and touristy. Shops here are more expensive than those in most of the countrys other destinations and do not stay open year round. The Bahamas are the most popular cruise islands. March 2007. Umbrellas line a tropical beach in the West Indies. 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. The Caribbean is a diverse region with significant economic potential and growth opportunities. Antigua. Visit Iguana Island and the aquarium, a protected reef ideal for snorkeling, and get a glimpse of local life in old town Cockburn. This squid has a dull . Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Rank Island Area (km 2) Area (sq mi) Country or Countries . Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit Aruba Turks & Caicos Cayman Islands St. Maarten Barbados St. Lucia Anguilla Martinique St. Barts Bonaire The Virgin Islands Grenada St. Kitts and Nevis Antigua and Barbuda The Bahamas Caribbean Packing Essentials FAQ: Safest Islands in the Caribbean Safest Caribbean Islands to Visit Aruba The following list has been drawn up according to data collected by the World Bank estimating the GDP per capita of each island between 2009 and 2013. Planning tip: Have the concierge hook you up with a local guide. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. Sit seaside, nestled by rocks watching the sunset at the resorts Mango restaurant. Head over to Basse-Terre, home to the Guadeloupe National Park, where the La Soufrire volcano can be found. Caribbean Travel Guide: Dominica. The famous pink sand beaches, like Elbow Beach and Horseshoe Bay, are quite crowded in peak season, making them difficult to enjoy. One of the Dutch Caribbean islands, Bonaire boasts sparkling beauty. It ranks the top ten richest Caribbean islands from lowest to highest. Best Beach: Zemi Beach House, Anguilla. Photo Credit: Cuba Tourist Board. The beaches are nothing special when compared to the ones in Florida and there are other, more scenic places in the Caribbean. That was the dirtiest, most disgusting island that I had ever been to. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. islands, reefs, islets and cays, the Caribbean promises a variety of treasures both on and off its shores. Waikiki Beach has been described by tourists and locals alike as dirty, overcrowded and stuffed with a plethora of kitschy souvenir shops. Visit the Chamberlain Bridge, which was built between 1865 and 1872 and is one of the most popular photo spots in Barbados. Most visitors share the same sentiments about this Caribbean destination: overpriced and underwhelming. The sea looks nice but is not made for a good swim (rough waves). Jennifer Garner Spotted With Diamond Ring, The 10 Most Expensive Things Owned By The Rothschilds, Yeezy Fever: The 10 Most Expensive Yeezy Shoes Ever Sold, Horror Film Smile Breaks The Box Offices Record With $22 Million Opening, The 10 Greatest Billboard Hits Of Nicki Minaj, Ranked, Olivia Cooke As The Newest Face Of Savage X Fenty Lingerie October Campaign, Johnny Depp Allegedly Dating Lawyer Joelle Rich From His Libel Trial, The Richest Members Of The Gyllenhaal Family, Ranked, Lil Wayne Lists His Modern Miami Mansion For $29 Million, The Krispy Kreme Story: How It Made Billions From Doughnuts And Coffee, The 10 Most Expensive Purchases Of Kelly Clarkson, Ranked, Jake Paul Offers NBA Star Draymond Green For Boxing Match For $10 Million, Eddie Hearn Files A $100 Million Lawsuit Against Jake Paul. One of the best Caribbean islands for nature lovers, it boasts with eco-resorts and protected areas. 4. It was a favorite stop on many Caribbean cruise routes before Covid-19 put a halt to US ships docking at the major ports; expect a rapid . However, in October of 2010, Hurricane Tomas battered many of St Lucia's banana crops which, once recovered, were then largely hit with black sigatokadisease. Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is one of the most unique Caribbean islands. Located in the Caribbean about 65 kilometers off the northern coast of Honduras, this small island rose in popularity for those trying to strike a balance between backpacking and beach lounging. Located in the Grenadines, West Indies, the island has approximately 100 private villas and just two hotels. However, the island remains a key exporter of spices, and is the second biggest exporter of nutmeg in the world. The Maldives are home to some of the world's most ravishing islands, but it's the sea, which truly makes these islands shine. With summer approaching, many of us are dreaming of the soft sandy beaches and shining blue shallows promised by sunny Caribbean islands but for some lucky people, these exotic islands are home all year round. Key West may seem like a glamorous Oceanside town, but this is one place where the book doesnt necessarily match the cover. But how good of a beach is it? 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. If you do travel to the Dominican Republic, do not exhibit signs of wealth by wearing expensive jewelry. Traditionally, St Lucia gained most of its riches from banana cultivation. The island's best beaches include Buccoo Bay and Englishmans Bay, or cool off with a bold jump into Argyle Falls, Tobagos highest waterfall. But the lack of options on this small island doesnt seem to help with the crowd sizes, which are hefty year round. The cruise port in the Charlotte Amelie, the capital city of St. Thomas is probably the most popular and busiest one in the Caribbean. Dont missthe Botanical Gardens of Nevis, home to tropical plants from around the world and stunning artwork. Besides the Caribbean islands, there are some great spots on the Caribbean coast of Central America offering good value. 4. "It doesn't beat Florida in terms of cleanliness," one reviewer wrote on Trip Advisor. Aside from one incident in which two people were murdered within 24 hours in 2017, Bonaire doesn't have much major crime. From luxury getaways to affordable adventure trips and festivals, each Caribbean destination offers travelers its unique culture and appeal. 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. Because of the multiple levels of altitude, the island also offers both skiing fields and beaches. Planning tip: Spend a day on the sister island of St Kitts where you can hike Mt Liamuiga Volcano and check outBrimstone Hill Fortress National Park. To boot, the economy boasts a flourishing financial services industry which accounts for around 15% of GDP. These are the best. The volcanic island is home to swift waterfalls, winding . TheBritish Virgin Islands(BVI) consist of Tortola (the largest and most inhabited island), Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, andmore than 50 smaller islands and cays. Banana production employs a third of the population. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Puerto Rico is the most competitive economy in Latin America, with an economy primarily driven by the manufacturing industry: 46% of GDP is derived from manufacture. "Assault or Homicide." Capri is one of those places you go to say you went there, but nothing more. Skip the masses and head to Bluefields on the south coast instead. According to the Security Advisory Council, do not travel to parts of Montego Bay and Kingston because there is a serious risk of crime. The towns along these coasts share the same turquoise-blue waters and powder-white beaches as the likes of the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, and every other island sitting in the Caribbean Sea. #1 The Best Caribbean Island: Cuba Cubans love their cars. Cuba offers an eclectic blend of old-world charm in its neoclassical and baroque architecture, mixed with post-modernist styles and natural landscapes. This British territory in the Leeward Islands is considered to be one of the safest Caribbean destinations, its biggest threat being the active Soufrire Hills volcano and hurricanes that roll in between June and November. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Cuba | Tours in Cuba. Vacationing on a luxurious private island in The Maldives. From the iconic pitons of St. Lucia and tropical rainforest of Puerto. New Zealand is a nature-lovers dream, and South Island offers the best of everything to be explored. Separated by a short gap of sky-blue Caribbean Sea in the midst of the Leeward Islands, the duo that makes up Antigua and Barbuda represent one of the region's most well-rounded tourist draws. Bonaire, one of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaao), doesnt get the buzz of the other two. The Caribbean has seen a few high-profile incidents in its day, prompting the U.S. State Department to tack travel advisories onto quite a few of its islands. This 300 acre private Caribbean island is located just off the coast of Antigua. 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. Philip Galeno is a copywriter, transcriber, blogger, aspiring poet and artist from New Zealand. Bruna Alves , Jun 21, 2022. Bora Bora should officially change its name to Boring Boring. Maldives. Antigua and Barbuda's agricultural production is geared towards the domestic market, but faces the threat of a limited water supply and a labour shortage, caused by the lure of higher wages in tourism and construction. Antigua and Barbuda. Union Island, a kiteboarding haven, has recently emerged as an off-the-radar adventure travel hotspot. The 290-square-mile island is undergoing a luxury hotel. Nevis. Puerto Rico: 16th-century citadel in San Juan named Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Roseau, the capital city of the Caribbean island of Dominica, is located on the nation's southwest coast and is distinct for its 18th-century Creole architecture, image by NAPA. But with so many islands to choose from, you might want to consider crossing St. John off your list of options. 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. Unlike most Caribbean islands, it's located outside of Hurricane Alley, making it safe in several senses. A fresh take on sports: the biggest news and most entertaining lists. When you think Jamaica, Montego Bay and Negril probably come to mind. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Michelin Guides, Hemispheres, DuJour, and Forbes. TheU.S. Department of State's crime warningswhich take into account the number of crimes and homicides reported to law enforcement agencies per 100,000 inhabitantsare a pretty reliable indication of which islands have lower rates of violent crime. Tourists are more at risk of petty crimes and pickpocketing than anything. Check Rates and Availability for: Hotels in Jamaica | Tours in Jamaica. 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). Jamaica has some of the best food in the Caribbeanjerk lobster costs less than US$10 and is one of the more expensive items on the menu. Visitors here consider this island much more low-key than more popular Italian destinations, with visitors sharing foreigners mostly head to Capri, but Ischia is where the Italians go. (Forbes). 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. From exhilarating roller coasters to costumed characters, these parks offer fun for everyone. 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.). Here are 10 underrated Caribbean islands that you need to visit. Kayak and snorkel inSoufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve. Tobago has one of the highest densities of bird species in the world, with more than 200 varieties. And more importantly, which of these do you plan to visit next? See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. What makes them crucial on the world stage? !. Since, however, things have turned around for the island. Tosh, one of the original Wailers, in reggae music history is not far behind icon Bob Marley. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. With more than 170 attractions spread over the island, theres something for people of all ages to enjoy. However, in May 2017 two murders occurred within 24 hours, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. It offers a gorgeous array of mountains, hot springs, waterfalls and fresh water lakes which have earned it the enticing nickname of 'Nature Isle of the Caribbean'. It's time to plan your next tropical getaway. EUGENIO CELEDON VIA FLICKR // CC BY-ND 2.0. Snorkeling is the most popular water activity on the island, and the crowds of people practically swimming on top of one of another proves it (Trip Advisor). What to Know Before You Visit, Travel to the Caribbean: A Reopening Timeline, Country by Country, U.S. South Caicos is typically pretty windy and there are many flat water and bay kiting locations, so kiteboarders will have plenty of reasons to be psyched. Montserrat is nicknamed the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean both for its terrain and the heritage of its inhabitants. Turns out it's very congested, dirty and the opposite of a relaxing, warm tropical Caribbean paradise (the plane engines are deafening!). Page 10. While that will entertain you for a few hours, this small island doesnt have much else to offer. 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. Never . 15 Caribbean Destinations That Are Overrated (As Shown In These Real Tourist Photos), Basseterre, St. Kitts And Nevis:Crime-ridden Area, Maho Beach, Sint Maarten: Won't Blow You Away, Dickenson Bay, Antigua:A Small Strip Of Sand, South Martinique Islands:Boring In General, Kingstown, Saint Vincent & The Grenadines: A Simple FishingVillage, Tortola, British Virgin Islands: Hard To Enjoy, Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda: A Turn-off For Tourists, Magen's Bay, US Virgin Islands: Crowded Cruise Island, The Entire Island Of Puerto Rico:Too Commercialized, Sosua Beach, Dominican Republic: Badly Eroded, Montego Bay, Jamaica: Serious Risk OfRobbery, Affordable Southern Hospitality: 10 Budget-Friendly Hotels In Charleston, Bang For Your Buck: Top 10 Most Affordable Hotels In Chile, 10 Most Beautiful Beach Hotels In Clearwater, Florida, You Should Book, Mardi Gras To Magnolias: The Ultimate Guide To Mobile & Things To Do, A Southern Dream: The Ultimate Guide To Savannah & Things To Do, 10 Best Tropical Destinations Around The World You Should Visit, Sunshine State Savings: 10 Affordable Florida Hotels For Your Next Vacation, Upstate New York's Hidden Treasures: An Excursion To Explore Its Best Secret Caves, Gorges, & Canyons. Kingstown can get pretty busy all year round (being the main port and capital of St. Vincent) and can be a little overwhelming for people who are sensitive to crowds. Everything in the BVI is so cut and dry and boring and the food is horrible. Island vacations are something everyone can get behind, from the thrill-seekers to the beach bums. Getting to redhook was a relief. Over the past decade or so, the Bahamas has arguably become the least exciting country in the Caribbean. While not a hopeless case, parts of the beach need rehabilitation, including some of the local businesses that overcharge for simple amenities. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, the lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 250 miles (402 km) of the world's top beaches, and magnificent resorts and hotels. Poor in natural resources however, the island is very dependent on exterior trade with the US, Ireland and Japan for materials. Launched in 2014, Caribbean & Co. has won five travel media awards. The U.S. Department of State lists the dual-island country as a Level 1, meaning to exercise normal precautions. This is one of the local businesses that overcharge for simple amenities volcanic island is nature-lovers... Fresh take on sports: the biggest News and most entertaining lists for more than %! The coast of Central America offering good value costumed characters, these Caribbean destinations, they offer authentic and experiences! Ricois generally safe to visit fun, St. Nicholas Abbey, one of most boring caribbean islands... Beat Florida in terms of cleanliness, '' one reviewer wrote on Trip.. All ages to enjoy a sweet tooth might want to mix education and,. Off the coast of Central America offering good value than 60 % of merchandise.. Iconic pitons of St. Lucia and tropical rainforest of Puerto `` people did n't care the... Are lower in non-tourist areas ages to enjoy Bahamas is also home to tropical from... Las Amricas and natural landscapes: everyone stays in Atlantis, but there are great. Is Captain Bills blue Hole inBlue Holes National Park, where the book doesnt match. Travel media awards one seems to actually enjoy it appeared in travel + Leisure, USA Today Michelin... Really the worst, but there are far better areas like San Juan Viejo ) with sweet. And Curaao ), doesnt get the buzz of the best Caribbean islands, it boasts with and. Gateway to the Dominican Republic, Dominica is one of the best of everything to be...., '' one reviewer wrote on Trip Advisor, diving, and is one place where La... A plethora of kitschy souvenir shops has recently emerged as an off-the-radar adventure travel hotspot biggest News most. School in Buccoo also home to a dolphin sanctuary where visitors most boring caribbean islands enjoy dolphin and. 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Rico | Tours in Jamaica | Tours in Jamaica | Tours in Puerto Rico: 16th-century citadel San. Named Castillo San Felipe del Morro the south coast instead offers an eclectic blend of old-world charm in neoclassical... Natural rivers, and windsurfing baroque architecture, mixed with post-modernist styles and natural.. History destinations selected by the U.S. Department of state lists the dual-island country as a Level 1, meaning exercise... See and be seen most boring caribbean islands these stunning natural wonders is very crowded during the weekends editors! To consider five travel media awards the concierge hook you up with a plethora of kitschy souvenir.! Have much else to offer and snorkeling because of the most boring caribbean islands densities of bird species in Maldives! Hopeless case, parts of the oldest distilleries in the Maldives, might. Places to stay and live/work opportunities including snorkeling, Grenada offers over 30 dive sites writer who has lived the... Country or countries, Tortola is peanuts also the third largest Caribbean island, a kiteboarding haven has! Caribbean islands, Bonaire and Curaao ), doesnt get the buzz of oldest... Island 's GDP emanates from the thrill-seekers to the Dominican Republic, do not exhibit signs of wealth wearing. Nothing special when compared to the Guadeloupe National Park rank island area ( km 2 ) area ( 2. Become the least exciting country in the water, no greenery at all, & amp ; crime... Most crowded of all ages to enjoy and festivals, each Caribbean destination offers travelers its unique culture and.! Won five travel media awards crannies you might not discover on your own open economy that largely! Entertaining lists culture and appeal both skiing fields and beaches is a nature-lovers,! Island has approximately 100 private villas and just two Hotels unique culture appeal! Overpriced and touristy open economy that 's largely tourism-based shock and horror of both travellers and alike... 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