What can be a better adventure than island hopping around some of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean? You can wind away your hours on the beaches and swimming in the warm water. This is one of my favourite places in the world to travel and I’m always rewarded with the unique culture, amazing scenery and energetic locals. The best place to stay on any island for an unforgettable experience is in one of the beachfront villas in the Caribbean. Or, if this is out of your price range, you can find several other types of accommodation including apartments and guesthouses to suit your budget. This article describes how you can have the perfect Caribbean adventure.
How to Choose Which Islands to Visit:
Choosing where to go and how long to stay can be very challenging. There are more than 7000 individual islands in the Caribbean Sea and no less than 28 island nations. This is a pretty big selection to choose from and without a little planning and preparation could mean that you have a lot you could miss out on.
The first thing to consider before choosing a destination is what you want to do in the Caribbean. Some islands are touristy and therefore easier to access than others. Another factor is what your budget is. You can find relative luxury on one island for a low price whereas the same amount somewhere else may not even cover the cost of dinner.
You should also think about how long you want to spend on your adventure. If you only have a week or two, perhaps it’s better to spend your time on some of the major islands, especially if it’s your first time. For longer trips, it’s easier to get off the beaten path and have the flexibility to explore.
The final factor is that the level of crime and safety can vary significantly between one island and the next. Tourists may or may not be major targets of petty or major crime. Some islands have awful reputations while others are very safe to spend your time exploring. Do your research and gather as much information as you can before committing to your Caribbean adventure.
How to Get Around the Caribbean:
There are two popular ways to get from one island to the next and the cost of each varies depending on the distance, island, and during what time of the year. The first is by boat. Lots of people come here and will island hop from one to the next by taking the ferry or a boat. This is a great way to get around to nearby areas and gives you flexibility. But, this takes a lot of time and preparation as schedules vary and are unpredictable.
If you want to get further afield, flights are a better option. There are a few budget airlines that travel between larger islands and this may be a more suitable option to cover the longer distances. If you’re planning a Caribbean adventure where you’re going to visit lots of places, carefully consider the logistics and how to get around before you arrive. Some of the harder to reach places may take several days and a lot of patience to find a boat ride.
How to Travel in Style on a Budget:
Just because you don’t have a bottomless pit of money to spend on your trip, it doesn’t mean that you can’t travel in style. The easiest way to make your money last longer is to plan and avoid peak season. Prices are higher when there are more people around and the difference can be as much as double in the midst of peak season. A top tip is to contact your accommodation directly and try to find a special offer. If the place isn’t full, they’re more likely to give discounts.
The next tip is to not completely disregard cruises. Back at home, they may seem like a luxurious vacation at a very high price. But when you arrive and put your feet on the ground, you may be able to find ones that are run by local operators for much less. This may be a great way to get out and see some of the other islands without the complicated logistics of getting from A to B.
Essentials Experiences in the Caribbean:
No adventure would be complete without experiencing the local culture. Apart from relaxing on the beaches with a cocktail or a cold beer, you can get out and snorkel or dive. Marine life is in abundance and it’s a wonderful thing to see.
Another essential thing to do is to sample some of the local cuisines. This varies from island to island and you can find delicious meals for a low price from the vendors. One of my favourite things to do on any island in the Caribbean is to find the place where the locals eat and join them. Not only you have the chance to try their local delicacies, but the food is also a great window into their culture.
The Bottom Line:
The Caribbean is one of the best places in the world to have a luxurious adventure. Each island is unique and has a different culture. Take the time to plan your trip in detail, especially if you want to get to some of the harder to reach places. With a little diligence, you can find luxury without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to have an amazing time!