A vacationers dream come true! The Caribbean is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most inspiring destinations. The diversity in cultures, cuisines, language and landscapes adds to the region’s magnetic appeal. Beaches in the southern Caribbean can extend as far as the Atlantic Ocean, giving travelers the option of enjoying many different types of shores when visiting this region. From the more turbulent waters that are ideal for watersports to the quintessentially Caribbean beach, there's a little bit of coastline here to suit any vacationer. Regardless of whether your travels take you to the surfer-friendly shores of Trinidad or the picturesque beachfronts of Aruba, you're bound to find the right spot in this region.
Bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the region is rich with water sports options. Wind surfing has grown in popularity in recent years, the islands also have opportunities for kayaking, another sport growing in popularity, white water rafting, and parasailing. On Barbados, Aruba, and in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., you can go aboard a submarine, descend about a hundred feet and get an up-close look at ocean life. You may also enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride for underwater sight seeing. Hotels and beachside vendors also rent water skis, pedal boats, wave runners, jet skis, surfboards and water bikes. For the beginning surfer, you can rent a boogie board to try out in gentle Caribbean waves.
The southern Caribbean offers a stunning array of cultural diversity. In one week, you can speak Spanish and salsa dance in the Dominican Republic, learn about Dutch history in Curacao, eat delicious French dishes in Martinique and St. Barts, and eat English fish-and-chips in Barbados. This region also offers many natural wonders, including a volcano, mountains, rain forests, beaches, waterfalls and rivers.
Some travelers may love tennis and envision playing a match against the backdrop of the fruiting trees and warm sunlight. Others want nothing more than a comfortable lounge chair by the blue sea. Baseball fans may have a great time on the islands of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, where the game is practically a way of life. Avid sailors are lured by the currents around the U.S. Virgin Islands. After a day exploring your Caribbean island destination, there are still plenty of activities when the sun goes down. On many islands, nightlife offers flavors of local music or dancing the evening away in a stylish club, while those in search of entertainment can enjoy a Vegas-style show. Music festivals and shopping are two other activities visitors take seriously, day and night. But the choices don’t end here. No matter what ideals shape your vision of a Caribbean getaway, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for, and you may even encounter a pleasant surprise or two during your stay.
