Caribbean Guide 2023

CARIBBEAN wonders

Luxury is in the Details

TheCaribbean AWAITS!

4 Introduction

With new flights and attractions the Caribbean’s popularity is soaring again

6 Hidden Gems

Ten Caribbean wonders that add up to a memorable holiday

11 The Cayman Islands S

Three islands: unique wildlife, ‘must do’ events and a great culinary scene

12 Food, Drink and Nightlife

Eat, drink and party – from rustic street stalls to elegant restaurants

14 Weddings and Honeymoons

Something blue: Ways to say ‘I do’ and to tap into the romance of the region

16 Jamaica S

Powdery white sand, soul food, wellness retreats and Bob Marley

18 Responsible Tourism

Eat local, voluntourism and other ways to make your holiday ‘count’

23 Great Outdoors

Rainforests, mountains, national parks, wildlife and marine sanctuaries

Caribbean Tourism Organisation UK & Europe – known as the CTO Chapter

26 Hands-on Experiences

Fun workshops: play steel drums pottery classes, mix a cocktail...

30 Wellbeing

Relaxation and rejuvenation for the body, mind and soul

32 This Sporting Life

Golf, cricket, sailing...The Caribbean in a league of its own for sports fans

34 Families and Multigenerational Fabulous experiences for families of all ages, shapes and sizes

36 Music, Books and Films

The locations that inspire moviemakers, authors and musicians

37 BVIs S

For some ‘Vitamin-Sea ’ head to this archipelago of 60 unspoilt islands

38 Adventure and Theme Parks

Thrills of a lifetime and adrenalinepumping activities on land and sea

40 St. Kitts S

A rich history, deserted beaches and authentic attractions

43 History Makers

Cultural and heritage attractions

44 Cruising

Ride the waves on mega ships, luxury yachts and catamarans

46 St. Eustatius S

Diving, wildlife and adventure on this less-trodden and low-key island

48 Festivals and Events

Make everlasting memories at a carnival, celebration, concert or party

50 St. Vincent & Grenadines S

32 islands and cays blessed with natural gems and adventures

52 Map

At-a-glance location visual and primary languages spoken across the region

54 Airlines and Tour Operators

How to get there and where to book it

57 CTO Chapter UK & Europe members list

Directory of destinations and services

Your

Caribbean escape awaits…

established

READY FOR TAKE OFF Caribbeanbli awas

Embark with us and discover the wonders of the Caribbean, which is again trending as one of the world’s most desired and attractive holiday destinations.

And exploring the Caribbean has never been so smooth and easy.

Airlines are introducing new routes, new attractions and hidden treasures across the region are being revealed while the full removal of health protocols has sparked renewed confidence and enthusiasm among holidaymakers.

UNRIVALLED POPULARITY

The Caribbean is in high demand, with arrivals achieving record-breaking numbers that are surpassing pre-pandemic levels in most of its English-, French-, Spanish- and Dutch-speaking destinations.

Florian Valmy-Devillers, Business

Development Director for the Caribbean Tourism Organisation

Chapter UK & Europe says: “The Caribbean destinations have been at the top of travellers’ bucket lists since we emerged from the pandemic.

“Our region has so much to offer, and is now firmly back on the holiday map. With a tantalising choice of natural and cultural splendours, our tropical destinations provide the ideal escape for any traveller looking for a trip of a lifetime.

“We hope this guide inspires you to visit our unrivalled region and provides you with a wealth of ideas to help you plan a holiday.

“Also, follow our social media platforms with #lovecaribbean and let us virtually immerse you in the sights and sounds of our wonderful collection of destinations.”

HOTEL UPGRADES

New hotel developments, expansions and multi-billion-dollar renovations are being undertaken across the Caribbean. Jamaica will see 8,000 rooms added over the next five years. One of the biggest projects is the 2,000-room, $500 million luxury Princess Hotel in Hanover. The first 1,000 rooms are expected to be ready in 2023, with other developments planned by the likes of Sandals, RIU, Secrets Resorts, and a Hard Rock Resort in Montego Bay.

Hollywood actor Robert de Niro’s Nobu restaurant and beach club in Barbuda is scheduled to open a resort and wellness retreat, the Nobu Barbuda Inn, in 2023.

Luxury Grenada hotel Calabash has reopened after a multimillion-dollar overhaul and the Atlantis Paradise Island resort in the Bahamas has just began a multimillion-dollar revamp due to be completed in 2024, which includes redeveloping its Beach Tower, Royal Tower rooms and the Atlantis Casino.

NEW FLIGHTS

For 2023, new airline routes will open up more of the Caribbean to UK visitors.

Starting in late March, British Airways (BA) is launching direct services to Aruba and Guyana for the first time. Both routes will be twice weekly from London Gatwick and will

Dreamy beach in Dominican Republic

A special day for two in The Bahamas

Smiles at the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival

bring the number of Caribbean destinations served by the airline to 17.

BA is also starting a three-times-a-week direct route to Trinidad’s capital, Port of Spain, from Gatwick at the same time. It previously operated via Saint Lucia. Two services a week to sister island Tobago will fly via Saint Lucia. BA also added a third weekly service from Heathrow to Grenada for the winter and is increasing flights on its Heathrow to Nassau route in April, May and June.

Meanwhile, Virgin Atlantic will begin a yearround, twice-weekly route from Heathrow to the Turks and Caicos islands from November 2023. Virgin also flies to The Bahamas, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Tobago and Barbados from UK airports.

Virgin and Aer Lingus both restarted Manchester flights to Barbados in 2022 and TUI also operates flights to half a dozen Caribbean destinations from the UK.

With its excellent direct routes and interisland connections, the Caribbean is great for twin-centre holidays. Popular combinations include Barbados with Antigua, Grenada and Saint Lucia, Antigua and Nevis, Saint Lucia and the British Virgin Islands and Saint Lucia with Grenada or Tobago.

UNBEATABLE DEALS

With new flights, hotels, itineraries, experiences and the return of cruising, the Caribbean is positioning itself as the go-to destination for long-haul tropical escapes suitable for every budget. With the current economic headwinds

in mind, the Caribbean remains “strongly competitive and accessible all year round”.

To underline that, the CTO Chapter invites Caribbean enthusiasts to get inspired by this guide, and encourages future holidaymakers looking for their next escape to visit www. caribbean.co.uk to find some sizzling deals from our Caribbean specialists. There are countless experiences for all in the Caribbean – so start your planning here and come visit our paradise soon. #lovecaribbean. •

“The Caribbean is positioning itself as the go-to region for long-haul tropical escapes suitable for every budget”

The gentle waters of Trinidad and Tobago

ISTOCK.COM

/ VALIO84SL

Caribbean wonders

wingfield estate st. Kitts

Combine culture with an exhilarating zip line experience at Wingfield Estate, the site of an historic sugar plantation and rum distillery in the picturesque foothills of St. Kitts’ central mountain range.

Rum production began here in 1681, maybe even earlier, but the old distillery laid undiscovered until 2013, making Wingfield the oldest intact distillery in the Caribbean. A network of zip lines will take you soaring high over the rainforest, the Wingfield River and the estate, reaching speeds of up to 50 miles an hour.

great Blue Hole Belize

Whether you see it from the air or dive right in, the Great Blue Hole is equally as breathtaking. This 300-metre-wide, 125metre deep sinkhole is part of a larger Belize Barrier Reef Reserve system, the second largest reef in the world. Thousands of years ago it formed as a limestone cave

but as sea levels rose, the cave system flooded and collapsed, creating a vast, circular shape in the deepest shade of blue. Home to nurse sharks, giant groupers and numerous species of reef sharks, it should be on every scuba diver’s bucket list, both for the experience of diving deep into the dark hole but also for the tropical marine life and corals in the shallow waters surrounding it, which are also great for snorkelling. Alternatively, get stunning aerial views and Insta-worthy photographs on a helicopter or small plane tour.

darK View falls st. Vincent

Swim in the cool, clear natural pools of Dark View Falls, just an hour’s drive north of Kingstown, the capital of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. There are two waterfalls to enjoy. To get to the first, it’s an easy 10-15 minute hike before crossing the Richmond River via a bamboo bridge, followed by another shady walk. Here you’ll find a pool with a gazebo, picnic area and viewing

Ziplining over Wingfield Estate, St. Kitts

It’s not always easy to take yourself away from the beautiful beaches but here are 10 must-do experiences that will make your Caribbean holiday more memorable

Great Blue Hole, Belize

Mayreau island in St Vincent and the Grenadines

platform. To reach the higher falls, which has a larger pool, it’s a more arduous, steeper hike, but one worth every step.

waituKuB uli national trail dominica

Walk the Waitukubuli National Trail, named after the indigenous name for the island, which translates to ‘Tall is her body’.

Known locally as WNT, this 114-mile trail runs the length of Dominica from the southern tip, Scotts Head, to the Cabritts National Park in the north. Along the way you’ll pass through villages, farmland, old plantations, lush rainforests, deep gorges, steaming sulphur springs and waterfalls, allowing you to fully absorb the island’s culture, traditions and its natural wonders.

Highlights include the Boiling Lake, Morne Diablotins (Dominica’s highest mountain),

and meeting the indigenous Kalinago people. With numerous benches and shelters for rest stops, the trail can be split into 14 smaller walks, each one taking a day to complete.

Bio Bay cayman islands

Kayak under the stars to Bioluminescence

(Bio) Bay on the north side of Grand Cayman, one of only a handful of places in the world where you can experience this phenomenon. Best seen on dark nights, bioluminescence is the emission of light from extremely high concentrations of bioluminescent phytoplankton which, when disturbed, emit a burst of light to scare off predators. You can also view the spectacle from an electric catamaran with a low-level deck, allowing you to dangle your hands and feet over the side and swirl them through this sparkling wonder.

Blue mountain Jamaica

Climb the peak of Jamaica’s Blue Mountain, a UNESCO heritage site and the home of the island’s famous Blue Mountain Coffee. Jamaica’s highest peak, at 2256 metres, is well marked and not too steep but

Memorable trails in the hills of Dominica

OASIS 7, SEVEN MILE BEACH VILLA BELAGIO, CAYMAN KAI

can take up to five hours to conquer, depending on your pace and how many times you stop to admire and photograph the mesmerising views. Many hikers spend the night before at Whitfield Hall and set off early for the six-mile trek to the summit for sunrise. For a less strenuous but equally enjoyable Blue Mountain experience, spend the day at Holywell National Park, an hour’s drive from Kingston, Jamaica’s capital.

sulpHur springs saint lucia

Take a dip in the hot springs and pamper yourself in the bubbling mud baths at Sulphur Springs, just south of the town of Soufrière, once the capital of Saint Lucia and home to Gros Piton and Petit Piton, two nowdormant volcanoes.

Here, an active geothermal area has created steaming pools of water rich in minerals and baths of healing mud. (It’s best to take a dark-coloured swimsuit for the mud bathing experience). You can also take a guided tour of the volcano and learn how the entire Caribbean basin was formed. If the conditions are right, enjoy a rejuvenating back and shoulder massage in the nearby waterfall.

molinere underwater sculpture parK grenada

Scuba dive, snorkel or take a tour in a glassbottom boat at the world’s first underwater museum, listed as one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World.

Created by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor in 2006, there are 75 striking works of art covering 800 square metres, 5-8 metres down on the floor of the Caribbean Sea. The site is now listed as one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders

of the World. In a marine protected area, the sculptures are made from long-lasting and pH neutral cement, textured to allow coral polyps to attach themselves and encouraging marine life to flourish.

Entrance fees help fund park rangers to manage tourism and fishing quotas.

peBBles BeacH BarBados

Pebbles Beach, near Bridgetown, is worth a visit any time of day and any day of the week, but time it right and you’ll get to see the magnificent racehorses from the racetrack at Garrison Savannah taking a swim in the ocean here. Several days a week at sunrise these majestic creatures are walked, bathed and groomed as part of their training. The grooms might even let you pet the horses and take their photographs.

Despite its name, the beach is of soft white sand, not pebbles, and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you’re there, check out Cuz’s Fish Stand, which serves the island delicacy, ‘cutters’, salt bread buns stuffed with fish, tomato and lettuce.

pinK BeacHes BarB uda

Barbuda could well be the Caribbean’s ultimate pristine destination, with a small population and just a scattering of buildings.

Its Pink Sand Beach is known to be the pinkest of all the region’s beaches, due to the high levels of coral reefs along the coast

The pink hue is visible when shells have been deposited by surging waves and the colour is at its deepest between October and January. Those staying in Antigua can take the 90-minute Barbuda Express Ferry from St. John’s. Harbour •

The Pitons, Saint Lucia

10 hidden gems

Sulphur Springs, Saint Lucia

Pink Sand Beach, Barbuda

CAYMAN ISLANDS Threeofakind

Discover unique wildlife, cultural events and a diverse culinary scene in this trio of idyllic islands

NATURE

Said to be home to more species than the Galapagos Islands, Cayman is a nature lover’s paradise, with its stunning natural beauty and access to some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna. Visitors will encounter the endangered blue iguana and Sister Islands rock iguana, three different species of sea turtle, the red-footed booby bird and stunning bioluminescence.

Tropical woodlands reveal elegant silver thatch palms (Cayman’s national tree) and an array of wild banana orchids, while the islands’ protected mangrove forests can be explored by kayak.

EVENTS

The Cayman Islands’ diary is packed with festivals, carnivals and sporting events. January is all about Cayman Cookout while May is party time as the Batabano carnival explodes in a riot of colour and music. October is restaurant month, before the pirates invade in November to celebrate Cayman’s swashbuckling heritage. The Cayman Islands marathon and annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony wrap up the year in December, in time for a warm Caribbean Christmas.

ADDITIONAL FLIGHTS

Extra flights in 2023 mean it’s now even easier to travel to Cayman from the UK. For the summer season the Cayman Islands will welcome a fifth weekly direct British Airways flight from London Heathrow and, for a limited period, there will be six flights a week, operating every day except Wednesday, between January 19 and March 25 2023. From March 26 flights will operate five times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

CULINARY

Known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands is famous for its extensive and diverse range of gastronomic offerings. With over 200 restaurants that offer beachside fare, sea-to-spoon and farm-to-fork menus, fine dining experiences and traditional local cuisine, Cayman is the perfect place to embark on a culinary adventure. Foodie events take place throughout the year, with Cayman Cookout taking centre stage in January.

This prestigious four-day event is hosted by chef Eric Ripert and includes an impressive roster of sommeliers, celebrity chefs and mixologists from around the world.

EAT, DRINK andparty!

Caribbean cuisine is a delicious melting pot of ingredients, flavours and cooking styles, shaped by its rich heritage. Over the years, the native dishes of its indigenous people have been influenced by the Spanish, French, British, West Africans, Dutch and East Indians, and if that doesn’t create enough variety, each island has its own local delicacies too. Hot sauces, fiery marinades, spicy rubs, fresh fish, succulent seafood, tropical fruits, organically-farmed meat, vegetables and grains, the Caribbean has it all, plus, of course, its famous tipple. Dark, white or gold, the rum comes in a variety of shades and is the key ingredient in the region’s fruity cocktails – from a rum punch to a pina colada – guaranteed to get you in the mood for one of its ‘jump-up’ street parties.

sTREET lifE

Perhaps the most famous ‘jump up’ takes place in Saint Lucia every Friday at Gros Islet,

where locals run makeshift bars, craft stalls and barbecues and set up sound systems playing music from disco to Afrobeats. Each night of the week, Rodney Bay Village in the north of the island features a popular lively strip of restaurants, late-night bars and nightclubs with karaoke, DJs and bands playing soca, reggae and more.

In Barbados, Fridays are the night to check out Oistin’s Fish Fry, a weekly evening seafood market. Join the queue at Uncle George’s stand for plates piled high with perfectly grilled mahi-mahi, tuna, marlin, or kingfish, served with ‘macaroni pie’.

finE dining

For that special occasion, splash out at Le Petibonum on Martinique and L’Esprit on St Barthelemy in the French Caribbean, known as a gastronomic powerhouse.

At Duggan’s Reef in St. Croix, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, enjoy beautiful views of Buck Island while you devour the creamy lobster bisque and do some celebrity spotting.

Alternatively, get dressed up for dinner at the elegant Kendrick’s in the historic Quin House in downtown Christiansted.

laid-baCk and loCal

For a mellow vibe with unrivalled sunset views, chill out at Jamaica’s famous Rick’s Café in West End, on top of a 35-foot high cliff. At the open-air Pier 1 on the Waterfront tuck into succulent seafood, jerk chicken or curried goat while enjoying live bands. Or, join one of Jamaica’s farm-to-table tours at Jakes, an organic farm on the southern part of the island, or Zimbali in the hills of Westmoreland on the western side. For another authentic, local dining experience, book a table at Miss T’s Kitchen in Ocho Rios.

A Barbados seafood experience not to be missed is Cuz’s on Pebbles Beach, where for six decades a father and son have served the island’s famous ‘cutter’ – fried marlin filets in a soft salt bread bun and topped with a slice of cheese, honey mustard or Bajan hot sauce.

In Antigua, immerse yourself in the food and culture in the private home of chef Nicole Dennis and learn how to create gastronomic masterpieces with locally-farmed produce and herbs with a special blend of spices.

Or join the charismatic Tiffany Azille-Henry on a Eat n’ Lime Food Tour, a three-hour walking tour that takes in Brownie’s Bakery, an institution for its breads and pastries, and a cocktail-making experience.

From rustic street stalls to elegant beachfront restaurants, there’s a Caribbean culinary experience to suit all tastes and budgets – and great rum cocktails too

Food of the Dominican Republic

Cap Maison, Saint Lucia St Maarten

Rum is also the flavour of the day at Papa Zouk, a rustic, Creole-style bar and eatery in St John’s that us renowned for serving the largest collection of rum in the Caribbean – choose from 250 different varieties from around the world – along with great seafood dishes. Try the bouillabaisse soup to start and the whole red snapper for main, washed down with Papa Zouk’s signature cocktail, the Ti Punch.

fEsTival fEasTs

Foodies will love the Caribbean’s busy calendar of culinary festivals, including the Cayman Cookout in January, Anguilla’s Extraordinary Eats in April, Grenada’s Chocolate Festival in May, the All Andros Crab Fest, Bahamas, in June, Belize’s San Pedro Lobsterfest in July, the Nevis Mango Festival, also in July, and the Food, Wine & Rum Festival in Barbados in November. •

“The rum comes in a variety of shades and is a key ingredient in the region’s fruity cocktails, from a rum punch to a pina colada”

Something blue

Following years of postponed nuptials and restricted honeymoons, destination weddings are on the rise and, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, the Caribbean is popular among those proclaiming “I do”.

Beyond the Beach

While a barefoot ceremony on the sandbanks of The Bahamas or Cayman Islands may first spring to mind when picturing a wedding in the Caribbean, there are plenty of alternative options for couples looking for something a bit different. These islands are also home to verdant rainforests, thundering waterfalls and volcanic peaks that will add a touch of drama to the wedding album.

Known as the nature island, Dominica has a rugged coastline complete with black sand beaches and hidden coves (perfect for a private ceremony) while

adventurous couples can say their vows from Devil’s Bridge, Hell’s Gate or Shirley Heights in Antigua and Barbuda.

Historical sites such as Cottle Church on Nevis or the ruins of the Honen Dalim (the Jewish Synagogue) on St. Eustatius offer a more traditional service, and for cultural flare there’s the Spanish rhythms of Cuba, the French elegance of Saint Martin and Martinique or Dutch-speaking St. Maarten. For something truly unique, couples can tie the knot at the UNESCO Brimstone Hill Fortress in St. Kitts, have a scuba dive ceremony in Saint Lucia or The Bahamas, wed on top of a Mayan temple in Belize or host an intimate wedding celebration at sea on board a classic West Indian sloop in Anguilla, with a sunset blessing at Little Bay.

Romantic ResoRts

Those seeking an intimate ceremony can exchange vows in Dominica’s Relais and Chateaux Secret Bay, with secluded beaches, a discreet service and gourmet fare.

Complimentary wedding pa C kages

Many resorts in the Caribbean offer wedding packages that include a wedding planner, registrar, marriage licence and all legal fees – and these are often complimentary for couples staying at the resort. For example, East Winds in Saint Lucia – which has 26 cottage style suites and an oceanfront beach house –includes a wedding package worth $1,500 when couples book a seven-night stay.  A decorated venue, bouquet and buttonhole, wedding cake and private champagne dinner are part of the

package. Couples that stay for three nights or more at any Sandals resort qualify for a free wedding with an intimate ceremony and reception. And Elegant Resorts offer free destination weddings with a sevennight stay, such as the Simply Elegant Package at Turtle Bay in Barbados which includes a signature cocktail on arrival, a personalised wedding website and gift registry. The brand has joined up with celebrity wedding planner Emma Corrie to add her unique touches.

Meanwhile, six-suite boutique property Tet Rouge in Saint Lucia gives couples the option to take over the entire resort for their special day. The resort has just launched a new Land and Sea package, which includes a private sunset cruise, a rainforest adventure hike to the En Bas Saut waterfall and a private dinner.

With 18 resorts across seven islands, wedding specialists Sandals offer seductive settings such as over-the water wedding chapels in Jamaica to the oceanview pavilion in the new Sandals Royal Curaçao.

Remember ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue’? Well, Elegant Hotels in Barbados offers a

From underwater ceremonies to private sunset cruises, the romance of the Caribbean makes it a dream location for weddings and honeymoons

A toast for two in Curacao

Palm Island Resort, The Grenadines

wedding package add-on that pays tribute to the saying. The package includes a storied history of rum, with a private tasting at Colony Club’s Rum Vault as something old, a portrait painting class for something new, the chance to ‘borrow’ a luxury rental car to explore the island and a private catamaran sailing for something blue.

For a more traditional Caribbean setting, couples can marry inside the 300-yearold sugar mill at 18th-century Montpelier Plantation & Beach in Nevis.

honeymoon heaven

Getting married in the Caribbean also provides the opportunity to honeymoon on a neighbouring island. From scuba diving in the Dominican Republic, sailing to Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island or dining under the stars in Montserrat, the Caribbean offers a place to create lasting memories.

Keen explorers will enjoy hopping between seemingly endless islands and cays in the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands and The Bahamas, while couples looking for privacy

can enjoy the full glory of Saint Lucia’s Pitons from open-air ‘Sanctuaries’ at Jade Mountain,. Resorts often offer special packages with add-on experiences. The Romance the Senses Honeymoon Package at Palm Island Resort in St. Vincent and the Grenadines includes an excursion on a classic sailboat, a spa treatment for two and a dinner on the beach. A luxurious stargazing experience at The Landings in Saint Lucia includes a private boat charter, complete with an on-board telescope and a specially-prepared picnic for two. •

Romance & Wellness

“One of the perks of getting married in the Caribbean is the opportunity to honeymoon on a neighbouring island”

Dominican Republic

Wedding set up at Marriott Bridgetown, Barbados

ISTOCK COM / FOKKEBOK

Themanyfacesof

JAMAICAN PARADISE

Jamaica is a destination so dynamic and multifaceted you could make hundreds of visits and always have a unique experience. From world-class beaches and wellness retreats to its thriving music scene and delicious cuisine, it will delight visitors every single time.

IRIE ISLE

Lined with powdery white sand and inviting aquamarine waters, Jamaica’s beaches are amongst the world’s best. From the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay to the equally popular Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Frenchman’s Cove in Portland, Treasure Beach on the South Coast or the unique Dunn’s River Falls and Beach in Ocho Rios, there’s a beach for everyone.

health and wellness has spawned annual events such as the Reggae Marathon and the Kingston City Run. The get-fit movement has also influenced the creation of several health and wellness bars, as well as spa, fitness and yoga retreats at upscale resorts.

Traditional Jamaican patties are also a must try, as are curried goat, mannish water, oxtail and, of course, the national dish ackee and saltfish

Home of the legendary Bob Marley, arguably reggae’s most iconic and globally recognised face, the island’s most popular musical export is an eclectic mix of infectious beats and enchanting lyrics. It can be heard throughout the island, and is celebrated with annual festivals such as Reggae Sumfest and Rebel Salute.

FEED THE SOUL

But if lounging on the sand all day is not your style, a visit to Jamaica may be just what the doctor ordered. With hundreds of fitness facilities and countless running and exercise groups, the global thrust towards

To visit Jamaica and not try jerked chicken, pork, fish, conch or sausage is almost sacrilegious. The technique involves smoking meat or seafood that has been seasoned with an abundance of traditional spices and herbs either in a metal drum or barrel or

over flavoured wood. Though the method has evolved over time and varies by chef, the flavour remains the same: undeniably Jamaican and unquestionably delicious.

MEET ME IN JAMAICA

The island is quickly building its reputation as an ideal destination for corporate retreats, meetings and incentive groups. While the Jamaica Conference Centre and Montego Bay Convention Centre remain the most popular venues, many resorts have also added or upgraded conference spaces.

Making new friends in Port Antonio

ONE LOVE

With its international reputation for being synonymous with love, Jamaica offers breathtaking landscapes as a backdrop to some of the most romantic and dazzling nuptials.

The diversity of settings is staggering – from the mystical energy of the Blue Mountains and sensual appeal of the lush waterfalls to the warm sunsets on pristine beaches and the stately presence of the old plantation houses.

Couples looking for the ideal place to say “I do” are spoilt for choice on an island with outstanding natural beauty and professional event planners, musicians, DJs, florists, photographers, caterers and other wedding experts who make sure that every detail is taken care of for that special day, week, or longer. When it comes to wedding and honeymoons, you’re in safe hands.

One thing is certain: getting married in Jamaica will be a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a wedding and honeymoon destination all in one

for good

Increasingly, more tourists are keen to ensure their holidays will benefit the places they visit and those who live there. When they know the environmental impact of their visit is minimal but the economic and social impact meaningful, it makes that trip ‘guilt free’ and that more enjoyable.

Visitors to the Caribbean can find plenty of ways to get under the skin of their chosen destination – and give something back.

Eating out away from their resort, visiting

local shops and farmers’ markets, buying island-made souvenirs and using local tour guides feeds spending money back into the community but also provide visitors with a more authentic experience. After all, local guides have the best knowledge of their area.

GIve back to nature

As part of its sustainability efforts, the Grenada Tourism Authority has launched a voluntourism programme. This will appeal to those looking for a low- or no-cost holiday activity whilst also making a positive impact on an island where natural wonders abound.

For instance, the Grand Anse Artificial Reef Project, a charity developed by Grenada’s Dive Community which has first-hand knowledge of global warming damage, encourages aqua-loving travellers to pack their flippers and get involved with underwater clean-ups, urchin and fish counts and ID tag placement.

In Aruba, sustainable tourism policies include staffing beaches during turtle hatching season to ensure the safety of baby turtles. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort

is the Caribbean’s first and carbon-neutral hotel. An original member of the Green Globe it has been taking climate action across its operations for over two decades. In the Cayman Islands, tourists can meet a Blue Dragon on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Blue Iguana Conservation facility in the Queen Elizabeth II Royal Botanic Park.

This uniquely Caymanian reptile, Grand Cayman’s largest native land animal, has been brought back from the brink thanks to the success of the initiative.

In Tobago, community-based organisation Save our Sea Turtles has a mission to conserve the island’s sea turtles and their coastal and marine habitat through research, education and eco-tourism.

Holidaymakers can join a guided turtle swim, volunteer to spend nights on the beach tagging turtles or go on early morning walks to count nests and rescue disorientated hatchlings. Similarly, visitors to the British Virgin Islands can join turtle tagging boat excursions.

Home to Jurassic-style vegetation with flowering flamboyants and philodendrons tall enough to hide in, Tobago’s 60 millionyear-old rainforest is the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere

Visitors can lace up their hiking boots and explore one or more of its nine wildlife rich trails. There are also several cycling routes, some more adventurous than others.

Sign up for a turtle conservation project

From eating local produce to joining a voluntourism programme, there are plenty of ways to make your Caribbean holiday count

A hiking tour in Montserrat

A blissful swim in Tobago

Biking in Levera National Park, Grenada

LocaL cuLture

In Belize, a new communityfocused project celebrates the culture of the indigenous Garifuna people in the two main Garifuna coastal communities, Dangriga and Hopkins, through a mixture of art, music, dance, history and culinary delights.

Saint Lucia has a community tourism initiative that enables visitors to engage in

authentic local experiences. A tour on the Kabawé Krawl (Kabawé is the Creole word for a local rum shop) offers the opportunity to eat, drink and learn about the local culture by chatting to locals in their own surroundings.

Also in Saint Lucia, visitors can get under the skin of Creole culture at Fond Latisab Creole Park, where they can learn how to cook with macamboo leaves and make

“Visitors to the Caribbean will find plenty of ways to get under the skin of their chosen destination and give something back”

their own cassava bread, an Amerindian staple. Chak Chak music and dancing are some of the other Creole traditions on offer.

Tisland has also launched the Collection de Pépites, a database showcasing around 200 villas, B&B guest houses and boutique hotels designed to encourage tourists to consider alternatives to Saint Lucia’s allinclusive resorts.

GoInG Green

With its reputation as a luxury destination, the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda is heavily reliant on tourism for its economy. Its ‘Green Corridor’, an area on the southern coast, has developed eco-friendly hotels, restaurants and activities collectively committed to green tourism.

It’s also home to Wallings Nature Reserve, a designated protected area and Antigua’s

first community-run national park, wholly managed by staff and volunteers. All income from park entrance fees and guided tours directly supports the community and park, helping to conserve this special place.

on Turks and Caicos, a glorious smattering of coral islands and cays, visitors can take part in the 15-mile north Caicos Mountain Bike Eco-adventure, which includes a visit to the National Trust conservation centre.

If that sounds like too much hard work, consider a gentle and relaxed afternoon touring an iguana sanctuary or exploring the Conch Bar Caves (in the 1880s the caves were mined for guano, which was exported as fertilizer) to see flamingos at Flamingo Pond overlook.

In the Caicos Ramsar Nature Reserve, a protected area, visitors can book kayak ecotours to learn about coastal ecology.

be responsible

• Stay in a family guesthouse or homestay. These help fund local communities while offering a glimpse into local life.

• Respect local customs and traditions.

• Walk, cycle or use public transport where possible.

• Avoid buying wildlife products.

• Show respect for animals and their habitats when you travel and avoid unethical animal encounters.

Paddling through the mangroves with a local guide makes it easy for visitors to see the kind of wildlife that might usually flee from a noisy motorboat.

In Jamaica, swap the kayak for a two- to three-hour raft excursion on the Rio Grande with an expert raftsman. Actor Errol Flynn popularised bamboo rafting on the island back in the 1950s.

Holidaymakers visiting the Dominican Republic can also opt for low-impact river rafting as well as hiking and mountain biking, or take part in community initiatives such as learning the basics of Spanish while supporting a homestay initiative.

food for thouGht

Food tourism plays an important role in preserving a country’s local heritage. In Nevis visitors can sample traditional dishes when they visit an organic Rastafarian farm. As part of the experience they get to harvest ingredients to prepare in clay pots and learn about traditional farming.

In St. Kitts, Liamuiga Natural Farm sits high in the clouds of a rainforest. It informs guests about sustainable farming practices before serving them deliciously fresh food including yoghurt bread, salt fish and homemade coffee ice cream.

In The Bahamas, local guides take visitors around areas in Nassau to taste and learn about speciality dishes, such as conch fritters, rum cake and a Bahamian specialty, mac’n’cheese, which is baked with added spices and served in squares.

As well as signing up for a nature walk accompanied by a local guide, visitors to Martinique can support communities by joining classes in Creole cooking, pottery, bèlè dancing and basketry. •

Horses on Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos

Roped in: Jardin de Balata, Martinique

The crystal-clear waters of Anguilla

WHERE MEETS

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is your home in the Caribbean. From couples to families, this little slice of heaven on earth is simply an unforgettable vacation destination and a pathway to self-indulgence.

Mediterranean inspiration hosts breathtaking views overlooking the infinite sapphire waters and lush verdant hillsides adorned with tropical flora, creating the perfect environment to disconnect and bask in moments of bliss.

Create spectacular memories, whilst embracing nature's finest gifts, bespoke experiences and entertainment infused with local flare, history and culture.

discoverthe Wilder side

Rainforests, mountain peaks, botanical gardens, rivers and cascading waterfalls, the Caribbean has bountiful nature for those wanting to discover its great outdoors

Nature abounds wherever you venture in the Caribbean. Take some time out from lazing by the hotel pool or on palmshaded sands and reward yourself among natural riches that include national parks –several of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites – as well as tropical gardens, wildlife sanctuaries and marine parks.

Stretch your legs on trails through verdant forests, visit bird and animalfilled sanctuaries, get away from it all on uninhabited islands and explore protected coastlines above or below the water.

NatioNal parks

The Caribbean has beautiful national parks that can be visited on excursions or day trips. The Bahamas alone has 32 national parks, spread over 10 of its 700 islands. Andros has the world’s highest concentration of blue holes and the 40,000-acre Blue Holes National Park preserves more than 20 of the sinkholes. Jamaica’s only national park, the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, covers 100,000 acres of tropical rainforest. It’s home

to 800 plant and bird species as well as the Western Hemisphere’s largest butterfly, the Jamaican swallowtail.

Morne Trois National Park is centred on Dominica’s highest mountain, the Morne Trois Pitons volcano. The park combines lush vegetation with volcanic activity that includes small geysers, bubbling mud pools and a steamy, boiling lake.

Rare orchids and vivid mockingbirds are among the wealth of nature in Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve in Grenada. Grand Etang Lake, an old volcano crater filled with water, is set below its forested peaks.

Arikok National Park comprises one-fifth of arid Aruba, protecting the island’s flora and fauna and its moon-like geology and historic remains. Accessible by foot, horse and 4x4 vehicle, the Natural Pool is an emeraldcoloured pool cradled by huge rocks on the rocky coastline.

Get wild

Of the region’s wildlife preserves, Barbuda’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary is home to the Western Hemisphere’s largest colony of frigate birds and is just a short boat ride from the capital, Codrington.

Take a boat trip through mangrove swamps in Trinidad’s Caroni Bird Sanctuary to watch huge, colourful flocks of scarlet ibis, its national bird, return to roost at dusk.

Protected since 1776, Tobago’s Main Ridge Forest is one of the Caribbean’s top birdwatching spots. See more than 100 species, including the rare white-tailed sabrewing hummingbird, blue-crowned motmot and Tobago’s own national bird, the ocrico.

Abaco National Park in The Bahamas protects breeding grounds for the

endangered Bahama parrot, which nests underground in limestone holes.

The blue iguana, also endangered, is only found on Grand Cayman and Blue Iguana Conservation’s captive breeding facility here allows visitors to get close-up views of these impressive reptiles.

typically tropical

Botanical gardens are a microcosm of the Caribbean’s colourful flora.

The 53-acre Flower Forest Botanical Gardens in Barbados showcase multi-hued flowers, tropical fruit trees and stately, royal palm trees.

The six-acre Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens in Saint Lucia’s historic Soufriere Estate has a waterfall and hot spring-fed

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

On the water in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

baths set in luxuriant flowers and trees.

The JR O’Neal Botanic Gardens, on the site of the century-old Agricultural Experiment Station in the centre of Tortola’s Road Town in the British Virgin Islands, are even smaller and the collections represent the BVI’s diverse habitats.

Grand Cayman’s Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park encompasses a floral garden, orchid boardwalk and a xerophytic (droughtresistant) garden besides the Blue Iguana Conservation area.

In the remote Miriam C. Schmidt Botanical Garden on St Eustatius, see examples of the island’s flora and watch for whales offshore, while Martinique’s delightful Jardin de Balata is set around an old Creole house.

all at sea

Scuba divers interested in marine conservation can take part in a three-day Environmental Package in Saint Lucia, which focuses on coral reef restoration.

Offered by Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, activities include dive visits to existing coral mitigation sites, hands-on experience of maintaining a coral nursery and out-planting nursery reared corals.

Jamaica’s Montego Bay marine park can be explored by snorkelling and diving, or on a glass-bottomed boat or semi-submersible craft. Work is under way to create an underwater sculpture park there.

One of the oldest marine reserves in the world, The Bonaire National Marine Park is an underwater paradise with almost 60 species of hard and soft corals and more than 350 fish species, including hammerhead sharks.

Soufrière-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, on a bay in Dominica’s south-west that is an

extinct volcanic crater, features a plunging underwater lava chute to explore.

Several marine parks contain shipwrecks that can be dived. RMS Rhone Marine Park, off the BVI’s Salt Island, is centred on a coral and sponge-encrusted wreck sunk in a hurricane in 1867 but also includes underwater pinnacles, caves and canyons.

The Tobago Cays Marine Park in the southern Grenadines spans five cays surrounded by pristine coral reefs and is the graveyard of a British World War I gunship.

Folkestone Marine Park, just off the west coast of Barbados, features a 120-foot-deep artificial reef now teeming with fish created by the sinking of Greek freighter Stavronikita

walks iN the woods

The Caribbean offers hiking options aplenty, with many trails scaling rainforest-covered mountains, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas from the summits.

A popular but demanding trail climbs Saint Lucia’s Gros Piton, the smaller of its twin Pitons peaks. Best done with a guide, it’s a four-hour round trip.

Another exhilarating mountain hike takes ramblers to the top of Mount Christoffel, Curacao’s highest point in Christoffel National Park. Allow two hours to tackle the short but steep trail and start early to avoid the heat. Heaven sent for hiking, Martinique is laced with 350km of trails, many originally created by colonial settlers and known as traces. They traverse upland forests past plunging waterfalls, ascend active Mont Pelee volcano, follow coastal paths and meander through mangroves. The adventurous can do multiday hikes across and around the island. Or trek through thick forest to the top of St. kitts’ Mount Liamuiga volcano, capped by the Devil’s Tooth rock formation. Sister island Nevis appeals to all abilities, from a gruelling climb up Nevis Peak to easier strolls at its base Guests at Belmond Cap Juluca in Anguilla can join an Early Bird Nature Walk, maybe spotting a Green-throated Carib in Cove Pond, a bird spotter’s paradise. Other easy walks include Grand Cayman’s Mastic Trail through swampy mangroves and ancient woodland, St Vincent’s Vermont Nature Trail, or Carpenter Rock Trail to Antigua’s Shirley Heights lookout. •

“Many trails scale rainforestcovered mountains, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas from their summits”

Nevis Peak volcano rises above the island Taking bikes for a spin in Belize

Sailing in blue waters off Puerto Rico

The seven waterfalls yS Falls, Jamaica

beyond ordinary...

With secluded white sand beaches lapped by sky blue waters, breathtaking natural beauty, stunning biodiversity and authentic Caribbean hospitality, Tobago occupies a special place in the hearts of all who visit – and we can’t wait to welcome you!

Discover Tobago for your perfect escape and prepare to explore our unspoilt, untouched, undiscovered island.

To book a future holiday, visit: ba.com/tobago You can find out more at: TobagoBeyond.com #101ReasonsTobago

TAKING PART

St. kittS ride the WaVeS

Learn to surf in a safe and fun environment in the beautiful cerulean waters around the island of St. Kitts. The warm ocean and perfect wave conditions here mean no wetsuit is required, and kids and adults alike are catered for. Ride the waves in a group or private session, ensuring full attention from your fully-qualified instructor and sympathy if you fall off. Sandy Bank Bay is one of the best spots for beginners.

the BViS JuSt potterinG

Recreate an iconic movie moment by getting your hands dirty on a pottery wheel, à la Demi Moore in Ghost. Keen potters can join a local Tortola small-group ceramic artist in the British Virgin Islands, who will guide and instruct you in their small group class. Take a seat and try your hand at crafting your own

masterpiece at the potter’s wheel. There are also live demonstrations inside the tropical garden, where the workshop is located, and the chance to purchase pieces from a practicing local artist

trinidad and toBaGo Steel yourSelf

Have a go on a set of iconic steel drums in a two-hour tour and class hosted by Steel Pan Yards Experience in Port of Spain, Trinidad. Taking you through the lively streets of the capital, you’ll see how steelpan drums are played and watch the bands practice live. You’ll also see live calypso performances, enjoy the party strip with several bars and outdoor venues and try the delicious street food. No musical expertise is required and children are welcome to take part too. Afterwards, you’ll be able to tick learning a national instrument off your bucket list (worth your while for the bragging rights alone!).

Grenada Bee curiouS

Experience a day in the life of a beekeeper at Tri-Island Chocolate Farm, Grenada. Budding nature enthusiasts will venture inside a working Grenadian beehive to discover the world of the honeybee, test out the equipment used by a bee-keeper and learn about a typical beekeeping year, followed by light refreshments and honey tasting.

the BahaMaS ruM diarieS

No visit to the Caribbean would be complete without sampling some fine golden rums.

A Rum N Ting mixology class in Nassau will teach you how to make the perfect cocktail using the region’s finest export. An experienced bartender and mixologist will show you how to combine the island’s best flavours, then you’ll have time to taste your creations with fellow cocktail enthusiasts.

With a wide choice of interactive and engaging workshops and classes, visitors can leave the Caribbean with more than just a suntan

Drumming up a beat in Belize

St. Vincent and the GrenadineS Get crafty

The Youlou Art Centre is an non-profit, nongovernmental Cultural Centre dedicated to preserving arts and culture in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Set up in 1999 by local artist Camille Saunders-Musser, it offers creative art classes, from making sculptures and puppets to singing, book illustratating and poetry writing, for locals and tourists, both children and adults.

There’s also an on-site art gallery and gift shop selling locally-made products, which often make use of recycled materials.

Martinique cook up a StorM

The Martinique In-Home Culinary Experience offers insight into life as a local, with guests welcomed into the home of Martinique residents and invited to join in with prepping the feast. Alongside great home-cooked

food and conversation, your hosts will offer travel tips, with a choice of menu and drinks, including ‘planteur’, a Martinican cocktail, or rum. Groups are capped at 10 to keep the experience intimate.

Belize BottoMS up!

You’ve heard of puppy yoga and hot yoga, but what about sunset yoga with wine? A gentle evening flow and meditation session is followed by deep relaxation in savasana pose at Stella’s Sunset Wine Bar in Belize. After the class, participants are offered the chance to sip a glass of red or white wine from across the world, or try the house sangria, while making new friends and sharing stories about their trip.

Saint lucia Bean to Bar

Make your own chocolate during an immersive treat with chocolatier Hotel

Chocolat at Rabot Estate, Saint Lucia. The Tree to Bar experience plunges you into the rainforest for a tour of the cacao groves as you learn how to graft a tree, while the Bean to Bar experience lets you taste cacao pulp from a freshly-cut pod and learn from the experts about what it takes to transform roasted cacao beans into chocolate. Both tours culminate in visitors crafting their very own chocolate bar.

Saint Martin SMell of SucceSS

Make your own perfume or cologne at Tijon in Saint Martin. Create and bottle three scents over 90 minutes, choosing your favourite to take home. Or don a lab coat and pick up your workbook to delve deep with 300 oils in a three-hour class to create and name a signature fragrance. Perfumers will leave with a goodie bag of Tijon products valued up to 45 euros, for you to keep as a sweetsmelling souvenir or for a special gift. •

“Don a lab coat and pick up your workbook to delve deep with 300 oils in a three-hour class to create and name a signature fragrance”

Chocolate craft at Jade Mountain, Saint Lucia

Delicious seafood in Martinique

A boutique, family owned Caribbean inn on one of St. Croix’s most exquisite beaches.

Time for some well-deserved wellness? Let Saint Lucia rejuvenate your senses

With her relaxing white sands, crystal-clear waters and invigorating volcanic mud baths, let Saint Lucia restore your mind, body and soul. Let her immerse you in the healing wonders of the rain forest and the therapeutic powers of the island’s detoxifying hot mineral-rich springs. Let her recharge and revive you with award-winning wellness and yoga retreats, surrounded by the rejuvenating energy of the Pitons. Let her indulge the senses with some of the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean, from open-air treatment rooms set into the cliffside, to spectacular views of the silver sands of Anse Cochon. So, what are you waiting for? Discover Saint Lucia and the natural health and wellness experience that’s on another level. For more information just visit stlucia.org

MIND, BODY andsoul

Be it sunrise yoga on a powder-white sandy beach overlooking tranquil, turquoise waters; freshly-made smoothies packed with nutrient-dense exotic fruit; or a spa treatment laden with high-quality native ingredients, a trip to the Caribbean promises the ultimate wellbeing break that will see you leave the region refreshed, replenished and reinvigorated.

Throw in soul-soothing sunshine, unfettered nature and the pure Caribbean air – Puerto Rico has the cleanest air in the world, with the U.S. Virgin Islands ranking third, according to a 2022 World Air Quality Report by IQAir – the region is perfect for wellness holidays.

BE groundEd in naturE

Clear your mind and get your heart pumping as you hike, kayak or cycle your way through untainted wilderness, navigating diverse fauna with a backdrop of tropical birdsong.

Dubbed ‘The Nature Island’, Dominica is not only home to the longest hiking trail

in the Caribbean – the 115-mile Waitukubuli Trail – but also hot springs and geysers for soaking away life’s troubles. Screw’s Spa Diamond is a popular retreat set amongst tropical foliage that offers six pools, massages and volcanic mud wraps.

In Antigua and Barbuda the Mount Obama (previously Boggy Peak) trail is a moderate four-mile trek, set in the country’s Green Corridor. The view from the top is well worth the sweat and aching calves.

On a clear day you can see all the way to neighbouring Montserrat, and a glance over the Cades Reef might entice you into a snorkel upon your return.

To feel the benefits of nature at a slower pace, head into the tranquil forest in Barbados for some restorative healing with Psychotherapy in Nature. Recharge, regroup and realign your mind, for an hour, a half day, full day or an overnight stay.

A UK-trained psychologist guides you through a body-mind experience, be it with an energy-healing massage or meditation –with miniature donkeys, nonetheless.

Find your innEr zEn

Few places are more idyllic to practise yoga than the gently-lapping shores of a Caribbean beach.

Whilst the most novice of yogis may find a new love for the movement through a resort’s guided classes, more advanced practitioners will find optimum tranquillity on a longer retreat.

The Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat in The Bahamas promises to immerse travellers in a yogic lifestyle with spiritual practice and self-development.

The Caribbean’s beautiful and laid-back destinations are perfect for wellbeing breaks that ensure visitors return back home feeling relaxed and rejuvenated

Hiking trail in Guadeloupe National Park

Ixora Spa, The British Virgin Islands

Zemi Beach House Spa, Anguilla

Saint John, U.S. Virgin Islands

In Anguilla, the Thai House Spa at Zemi Beach House boasts a hammam (steam bath) and signature Taino bathing ritual. On the same island, feel refreshed with an Old World Salt Scrub or Tropical Spice Body Polish At Cap Juluc, a Belmond property.

The luxury Ixora Spa at Scrub Island Resort Spa and Marina in the British Virgin Islands offers acupuncture and Ayurveda treatments to help you unwind and destress. Complimentary ferry services are available from Trellis Bay Market dock.

St. Maarten is rich in spas, including the St. Maarten Nectar Wellness Spa at Oyster Bay Beach Resort, which specialises in plant-only aromatherapy remedies providing all-natural handmade and vegan skincare.

FEEd your soul

Make the most of the Caribbean’s delicious and nutrient-dense produce. In St. Kitts, head to Ital Creations at Fari Organic Farm, a vegan kitchen that grows its produce on site. Visitors can stop by for fresh juice, a rainbow-coloured lunch or an afternoon yoga session under the mango tree.

For a full detox, a seven-day Supreme

Health Detox at the Begona Cliff Hotel in Jamaica is designed for women and champions a vegan diet with cooking classes, kemetic yoga and reiki.

In Saint Lucia, the Anse Chastanet resort is home to a vegan restaurant where guests are invited to join the Executive Chef on a weekly harvesting excursion to the resort’s organic farm in the Soufriere hills and take part in an interactive cooking class. Follow this up with a visit to the resort’s Kai Belté Spa, which puts respect for the uniqueness of each individual at its foundation.

Also in Saint Lucia and set on a crescent beach, BodyHoliday promises a personalised experience of wellness featuring daily spa treatments, classes, adventure programmes, sports, and more.

Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort in the Dominican Republic has a wellness concept that heightens awareness of the mind, body and soul. The ‘Wellbeing 360 Experience’ focuses on the Social, Silent, Sensory, Culinary and Personal – designed to ‘cultivate the soul’ through relaxation, reconnection, healthy eating and personal care. •

Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

“Combined with soul-warming sun and unbeatable nature, the region is perfect for wellness holidays...you’ll leave feeling replenished”

Chilling in Grand Cayman

Beach yoga, Dominican Republic

ISTOCK COM / C HRISTIAN W HEATLEY

Leagueof

their own

Year-round balmy weather makes the countries of the Caribbean perfect for sports lovers, whether you’re a spectator or taking part

From cricket to golf to cycling to sailing, there’s no better way to enjoy your favourite sporting activities than in the Caribbean.

Fairways to heaven

Golfers can see the top professionals during three PGA Tour tournaments taking place in the Caribbean in 2023 – the Puerto Rico Open in late February, the Corales Puntacana Championship in the Dominican Republic in late March and the Hero World Challenge hosted by Tiger Woods in The Bahamas in late November.

For those wanting to tee off themselves, the Caribbean is home to well over 70 golf

courses, many hugging the sea. Destinations with multiple courses include the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, The Bahamas and Barbados. High-end development Cabot Saint Lucia’s Point Hardy Golf Club is due to open in 2023. Sandals’ golf courses at resorts in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Saint Lucia include green fees with stays, while visitors to St. Kitts and Nevis can play on two courses of championship standard.

anyone For CriCket?

West Indies fans don’t just like cricket, they love it! Join them as their men’s team takes on England’s double world champions in an eight-match white-ball series in December 2023, comprising three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and five T20 games, prior to a second white-ball tour in December 2024.

run in the sun

Take part in or watch a marathon or a 10km run in the Caribbean. The Marathon Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago International Marathon both make a welcome return in 2023 after two years of virtual races. Events in May include the scenic Sea to Sea Marathon in Tobago, Antigua’s Run in

Paradise half marathon and the KLM Aruba Marathon, while the KLM Curacao Marathon is in November.

Then in December, there’s Run Barbados, the Cayman Islands Marathon, Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon and the US Virgin Islands’ St Croix International Marathon.

on two wheels

The Caribbean offers cyclists the chance to join tours or explore on their own, riding routes alongside palm-fringed beaches and trails through mountain rainforests.

Among road races welcoming international riders is the Tour de Guadeloupe that was first held in 1948.

For a more laid-back experience, the Jamaica Reggae Ride is a three-day escorted bike ride each April and November. Participants cover 175 miles along Jamaica’s north coast, enjoying leisurely stops en route.

wind in your sails

Crew a racing yacht as the Caribbean regatta circuit returns with a full calendar in 2023. You don’t have to be experienced to take part in the events, with sailing schools offering training courses that allow novices to join crews on race days. •

Turks & Caicos

SEE THE WORLD, DIFFERENTLY

With over 45 years of experience on the water, our holidays are carefully crafted for sailors by sailors, to deliver unrivalled performance and outstanding customer service every time.

From the jewels of the Windwards, to the sailors paradise of the British Virgin Islands, you can escape the ordinary and discover the best of your destination on a bareboat or skippered yacht charter. Choose from our world-class fleet of catamarans and monohulls and explore islands rich in history and picturesque ports in the Caribbean. Combining easy line-of-sight sailing and challenging open water thrills, the Caribbean is a sailor’s dream playground.

It’s never too late to put the wind in your sails.

Book with

Bareboat | Flotilla | Skippered | Schools sunsail.co.uk | 0330 332 1874

Somethingfor everyone

From single-parent families to multi-generational groups, a Caribbean holiday will be filled with memorable experiences for families of all shapes and sizes

Life’s a beach

With its powder-soft sand beaches, warm and shallow waters and year-round sunshine, it’s little wonder the Caribbean is a firm favourite for family holidays.

Alongside the simple pleasures of building sandcastles and swimming, the region is blessed with magnificent coral reefs for diving and snorkelling, with mysterious shipwrecks that will make a child’s imagination run wild.

They’re also home to beaches that are internationallyrenowned for water sports, among them Bathsheba Beach, Barbados, for surfing; Cabarete in the Dominican Republic for kitesurfing; and magical natural phenomenon, like Grand Cayman’s Bioluminescent Bay.

Make a spLash

When it comes to waterparks, the Caribbean can point to some of the best in the world. A new aqua park at the 25-acre, fun-filled Five Islands in Trinidad is home to the Caribbean’s longest lazy river, a double

wave pool and a dedicated water play zone for the little ones. Its Pirate’s Bay attraction alone features 13 slide experiences, a huge dumping bucket and numerous interactive spray features.

St Lucia’s Splash Island guarantees water-based fun for big and small on the inflatable obstacle-course, with a trampoline, climbing wall, monkey bars, swing, slide, hurdles and more.

In The Bahamas, The Royal at Atlantis, the Aquaventure water park has around 141 acres of pools and rides for a full day of fun, including the rip-roaring Power Tower – one that’s not for the fainthearted.

Go wiLd

Whether on land or sea, the region’s wildlife is a big draw, especially for smaller children who can brush up against a friendly fever of stingrays at Stingray City in the Cayman Islands and in Antigua, or get up close to turtles at the Cayman Turtle Centre.

St Maarten, the Dominican Republic and

Jamaica are just some of the islands where you can swim with dolphins. In Big Major Cay, one of 365 islands in Exuma in The Bahamas, you can even swim with the 20 or so pigs and piglets living an easy life. Whether young or old, hearts cannot fail to be won over by the mischievous green monkeys found in Barbados.

adrenaLin adventures

Active families will find plenty of attractions to get the heart racing.

At Jamaica’s Mystic Mountain, speed

Family fun at Beaches Negril, Jamaica

Shirley Heights, Antigua

A tentative paddle in Aruba

See resident wildlife Cayman Islands

junkies can bobsled down a 1,000m long run or fly through the rainforest canopy on a zip line.

More zip line experiences are to be found on St. Kitts, Antigua, Grenada, Saint Lucia, St. Martin, and Trinidad. In Belize, combine the thrill of a zip line with cave tubing.

take a tour

Catch a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, otherwise known as the ‘Sugar Train’, past old sugarcane estates, small villages, farms, rainforests and, of course, fields of sugar cane. The views of the ocean and Mount Liamuiga are spectacular.

Part train journey and part bus ride, on the way you’ll also be treated to Caribbean folk songs from the St. Kitts Railway Choir. Cruise on a catamaran from Antigua to neighbouring Barbuda to the Codrington Lagoon National Park to see the one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds that live there among pristine mangrove lagoons. Or jump aboard a Jolly Roger Pirate Cruise in Bridgetown, Barbados, for a swashbuckling tour. On offer is entertainment fun, snorkeling, shipwrecks, fish and turtles,

lunch and, for the adults, an open bar. You’ll go snorkelling among shipwrecks, explore offshore caves where buccaneers once hid their treasure, swing from the ropes and even walk the plank.

where to stay

From private villas with your own chef to all-inclusive resorts with kids clubs and activities for the whole family, all accommodation options are covered.

For extended families, the villas at the all-inclusive St. James’s Club in Antigua

has two beaches, six tropical pools, a wide choice of dining options and an excellent complimentary kids club.

On a secluded 100-acre peninsula on the southeastern coast, it’s also a great base from which to explore the island.

At Atlantis in The Bahamas there are 35 restaurants, 11 pools (two especially for children) and a cinema experience with kidfriendly films screened daily. There’s also family yoga on the beach, a pottery studio and an underground maze recreating the ruined Lost Continent, with piranha! •

“These islands are blessed with magnificent coral reefs and mysterious shipwrecks that will make a child’s imagination run wild”

Enjoy family-friendly golf in Saint Lucia

Go the whole hog in The Bahamas

Take a ride on a five-mast clipper in Martinique

With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and enviable weather, the Caribbean is well represented in all types of media across the world, from 20th-century literature right through to modern day TV and films.

the big screen

Since as far back as 1957, when An Island in The Sun was filmed in Barbados and Grenada, the Caribbean has regularly played host to epic love stories, action thrillers, dramas and, of course, a pirate-themed blockbuster or two.

When Ian Fleming settled in Oracabessa Bay, Jamaica, to write his now best selling James Bond book series, little did he know that decades later fans would be able to stay in the very villa he called home.

The adaptations of his novels have seen film crews return to the Caribbean numerous times. For Dr No (1962), Sean Connery and the crew were drawn to places like Dunn’s River Falls, St. Ann and Ocho Rios in Jamaica. In GoldenEye (1995), Pierce Brosnan’s Bond played out a dramatic fight scene at the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico, and Daniel Craig’s Bond in CasinoRoyale (2006) spent time filming at The Ocean Club,

A Four Seasons Resort in The Bahamas.

Disney’s The Pirates of the Caribbean series was filmed across the region, showcasing St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, Puerto Rico. More recently, The Lost City, starring Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum, was filmed in the Dominican Republic and the Marvel sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, was filmed in Puerto Rico.

television

The BBC comedy-crime drama Death in Paradise has been fuelling Brits with wanderlust ever since its fictional island of Saint Marie first graced our screens in 2011. Although the idyllic island doesn’t actually exist, fans can visit Guadeloupe, where the majority of the series is filmed, mainly in the charming coastal town of Deshaies.

books

A wide selection of novels set in the region offer a taste of island life and explore important topics like colonisation and immigration.

Dominican-British author Jean Rhys’ WideSargassoSea (1966) was framed as a postcolonial and feminist prequel to Charlotte Bronte’s JaneEyre (1847) and tackles themes of race, Caribbean history

Lights,

and assimilation. V.S. Naipul’s criticallyacclaimed 1962 novel A House for Mr Biswas looks at the identity of those with Indian heritage in Trinidad and Tobago as they transition into the post-colonial era. A song written for its musical adaptation later became the Bond theme tune.

mUsic

Whilst big stars such as Bob Marley, Rihanna, Gloria Estefan and Nicki Minaj hail from the Caribbean, some lesser-known rising names are worth seeking out. Look out for up-and-coming Projexx, Runkus and Kalpee, with dancehall and ‘new calypso’ styles beating through their work. •

camera, action

Get a sense of the Caribbean through books, music, movies and television shows that celebrate the region’s distinctive landscapes, culture and history

Bronze statue of Bob Marley, Kingston, Jamaica

Sunset in Grenada

british virgin islands Islandparadiseinthe

FUN IN THE SUN

Known for its 600 nautical miles of bright blue Caribbean waters, sun-drenched beaches and friendly hospitality, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a firm favourite with sailors and holidaymakers alike.

With exciting new openings, additional flight options, over 20 sailing regattas and refurbishments galore, 2023 is the year to explore this unspoiled island paradise. Divers and sailors should make the most of the welcoming waters at lively events like BVI Wreck Week in February and the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, celebrating its 50th anniversary in March.

YACHTIES HAVEN

2023 sees the return of Bitter End Yacht Club’s legendary Clubhouse. Paying homage to the original 1960 Clubhouse, destroyed by Hurricane Irma, the new bar features a wall of nostalgic memorabilia, such as buried treasure found in the aftermath – the perfect backdrop for a night of sharing tall sea tales and rum. Also not to be missed is Saba Rock, the fun-filled, one-acre island in the North Sound, a haven for yachties, divers and kiteboarders for more than 50 years.

NEW OPENINGS

Just steps from the famous White Bay, The Hideout is a luxury resort on Jost Van Dyke, with seven villas, all with private plunge pools and elevated ocean views. Larger groups will love Moskito Island’s latest estate, The Village, which showcases futuristic technology with a hidden DJ deck, multi-level infinity pool and a cliffside glass-bottom hot tub. Couples can chill at the luxury, intimate, adult-only Inn at Cornucopia on Virgin Gorda, with just five ensuite bedrooms.

SAIL THE SEAS

Thanks to calm waters, steady trade winds and well-equipped marinas, the BVI is revered as the sailing capital of the world. Hopping between the 60 islands and cays couldn’t be easier and there are numerous yacht charter options available, from bareboat to fullycrewed and even by-the-cabin charters.

New for 2023, Dream Caribbean Blue will be based at Scrub Island’s marina, offering guests an exceptional and unforgettable sailing experience with unparalleled service and genuine warm hospitality onboard its 11 crewed yachts.

For the 2023 season, Dream Yacht Worldwide will have over 90 yachts for visitors to choose from.

Plan an escape to the British Virgin Islands, an archipelago of more than 60 unspoiled islands, for a touch of vitamin-sea

thrillsofa lifetime

Adventure seekes can get their kicks with a host of fun-filled, adrenaline-pumping activities and excitement in the Caribbean – both on land and at sea

Zoom high above tree canopies, fly down precipitous flume rides, plunge deep in a submarine, go off-roading in a 4x4, swim with sharks and stingrays, abseil, climb, go canyoning, or trek deep into thick rainforests – the Caribbean can satisfy even the most ardent adventurers.

fly by wire

With two suspension bridges, three aerial walkways, a tree house and no less than 13

ziplines, ranging in length from 52 feet to 328 feet, the Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tour will take your breath away.

The brave can also take on the world’s steepest zipline. At more than 2,800 feet long, the Flying Dutchman at Rainforest Adventures in St Maarten has four parallel ziplines that feature a 42 per cent incline and drop over 1,000 feet from the island’s highest point, at speeds of over 50mph.

Royal Caribbean guests can launch themselves down the Dragon’s Breath Flight

Line on the cruise company’s Labadee private peninsula, in Haiti. The world’s longest overwater zipline, it ends on a beach.

park life

Spring 2023 will see the opening of the first phase of the Dominican Republic’s El Dorado Water Park in Cap Cana. Set to be the largest and most advanced water park in the Caribbean, it will include innovative water rides, a snorkelling canyon and the Caribbean’s largest wave pool.

Another early 2023 debutant in the Dominican Republic, Katmandu Park Punta Cana will be the Caribbean’s first worldclass theme park, featuring thrilling themed rides and attractions. It forms part of a $350 million joint venture between Melia Hotels International and entertainment development company Falcon’s Beyond.

Take a Leap of Faith from the top of the six-storey Mayan Temple at the Aquaventure water park at Atlantis Paradise Island, in The Bahamas. After a 60-foot vertical drop, riders on the water slide speed along a clear acrylic tunnel through a shark-filled lagoon.

tAK e t H e P l UNG e

Atlantis submarines have been operating in Barbados and Aruba for over 30 years, taking groups of 48 passengers, aged four and upwards, on narrated voyages past coral reefs, rock formations and shipwrecks. The tours take around two hours and reach depths of 130-150 feet.

For an even deeper delve, gaze at deep-sea marine life and shipwrecks in

a submersible that descends up to 1,000 feet off Curacao’s coast. Substation Curacao began offering submersible tours in 2010 but recently added a new craft giving guests panoramic vistas. Tours last up to two hours and each submersible takes up to five people.

In the Dominican Republic, Scuba Doo Punta Cana gives guests aged 10 and above the opportunity to experience the underwater world nine feet below the surface on subsea scooters.

You don’t have to be a qualified diver to wonder at the Caribbean’s bountiful underwater treasures.

Atlantis Submarine near Bridgetown, Barbados

Jungle zipline, Antigua

Fort Duvernette, St Vincent and the Grenadines

ON THe rOCkS

Rocky canyons and tumbling rivers make Dominica a playground for canyoning, a sport that sees participants abseil down boulders, slide down waterfalls and jump into deep pools amidst lush rainforest. Rock climbing enthusiasts can scale towering cliffs right on the beach in both Barbados and Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. The limestone rocks of Cayman Brac in the Cayman Islands suit beginners and intermediate climbers, with more than 120 routes including some directly over the sea.

Jamaica’s Dunn’s River Falls is a popular and relatively easy climb, after which you can go cliff diving into the river or swing from a rope and jump in.

SeaS THe Day

Soar above the waves flyboarding on water-powered jetpacks in Virgin Gorda and Barbados – an exhilarating experience also known as hydroflying. Barbados also offers great kitesurfing and surfing.

Scuba divers can dive down to 130 feet past underwater stalactites at Belize’s Great Blue Hole, the world’s largest ocean

sinkhole, while snorkellers can explore the colourful reef life on its fringes.

Snorkel or dive with curious stingrays at Stingray City, just off Grand Cayman.

The Bahamas is one of the world’s top destinations to see sharks, notably at Tiger Beach off Grand Bahama Island, while you can dive with huge whale sharks near Placencia, Belize.

eXplOre by fOUr wHeelS Or fOUr leGS

Take a guided 4x4 Jeep, buggy or ATV off-road trip in many destinations across the region or rent one yourself to head off through dense forests and across rugged

landscapes. Among the best locations are Aruba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica and St Maarten.

Alternatively, sit atop a horse as you ride among forested trails and on deserted beaches, and even go swimming on horseback in the Caribbean’s azure waters in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Bonaire, the Dominican Republic and Grand Bahama.

STar TrekS

You will need seven days to trek the entire length of Dominica’s 185km-long Waitukubuli National Trail, the Caribbean’s longest hiking trail. It is made up of 14 sections, which can be tackled individually, some of them extreme.

It will take two or three days to scale the highest peak in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic’s 10,000-foot Pico Duarte, following a 15-mile trail that requires a guide and pack mules.

Alternatively, take the shorter but difficult hike through the rainforest to climb the aptlynamed Mount Scenery, the highest point on the mountainous island of Saba.

You can also tackle some of the region’s other lofty hikes, such as Guadeloupe’s La Soufriere and Mount Pelee, an active volcano on Martinique. •

Swimming with stingrays in the Cayman Islands Horse riding St Johns, Antigua

“Abseil down boulders, slide down waterfalls and jump into deep pools amidst lush rainforest”

Flyboarding in Cockleshell Bay, St. Kitts

Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica

Main image: Virgin Islands

st. kitts Spotlighton

Cultural flare

St. Kitts has a rich history that tells the story of sugar production and English and French colonialism. At Brimstone Hill Fortress visitors can wonder between cannons and learn about its military past. The history lesson continues with a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, a three-hour journey on tracks that once transported sugar cane from plantations to the sugar factory in the capital city of Basseterre. Looking for a souvenir? Visitors can support local craftsmanship with a visit to Romney Manor which produces colourful Caribelle Batik textiles.

Caribbean flavours

Locals like to eat fresh and champion farm-to-table or sea-to-fork dining, with menus offering fresh mahi-mahi, grouper, snapper and lobster. Dishes can be washed down with a rum cocktail at Wingfield Estate, the oldest surviving rum distillery in the Caribbean. Guests can take part in a new Kittitian RumMaster programme which teaches the history of rum and how the distilling process works, followed by creating spiced rum and rumbased cocktails.

a dventure awaits

Volcanic mountains and dense rainforest make this island a natural playground for adventure seekers. Whizz through the rainforest and enjoy epic island views with Sky Safari Zipline. The canopy is also home to a thriving bird population that includes the American Kestrel, Scaly-breasted Thrasher and Blackwhiskered Vireo. For active types, the summit of Mount Liamuga offers views of neighbouring islands on one side and a volcanic lake on the other.

Gone limin

Kittitian’s love nothing more than to kick back and relax or ‘lime’. For beach lovers there’s plenty of private sandy coves to while away the days from secluded Banana Bay to the calm waters of South Friar’s Bay. When the sun starts to set head to Vibes Beach Bar for chilled reggae beats or catch live local music at Mr. X’s Shiggidy Shack. For a more lively scene, hop from bar to bar along the ‘The Strip’ or head to Dock Bar on a Sunday to watch some of St. Kitts’ best bands. Time a visit with St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival or St. Kitts Music Festival for a real Caribbean party. *British Airways flies twice-weekly from London Gatwick.

Only a handful of islands in the Caribbean can promise deserted beaches, uncrowded attractions and an authentic Caribbean experience – St. Kitts is one of them

VENTURE DEEPER

In St. Kitts, each and every moment unfurls naturally—from the gentle tug of low tide sending waves to the shore and back, to the glow of a rising sun illuminating Mt. Liamuiga’s peak. Immerse your senses like never before, embarking on a journey across lush rainforests, glittering oceans, and pristine beaches. Indulge your curiosity as you discover the unexpected wonders that the island has to offer. British Airways flies to St. Kitts twice per week from London Gatwick.

THE BEST BRANDS IN THE BEST LOCATIONS

Adults-only Hyatt Zilara™ and all-ages Hyatt Ziva™ all-inclusive resorts are located in the most lush, breathtaking settings in Mexico and the Caribbean. Here anything is possible, because everything is included, from luxury accommodations and authentic dining options to world-class entertainment and locally inspired activities.

Hilton All-inclusive resorts give guests the freedom to enjoy everything! Each adult and all-ages resort offers infinite beauty and countless amenities like picturesque views, luxurious suites, distinctive activities and endless dining and drinks on the world’s most enviable shores. Whether it’s an intimate couple’s getaway or an adventure for the whole family, Hilton’s newest luxury resort collection includes everything under a sun-soaked sky for the perfect vacation.

The ultimate carefree vacation awaits at our all-ages and adults-only resorts. Everything you’ve been daydreaming of all-in-one place. Picture-perfect beaches, inviting pools, gourmet meals paired with creative cocktails. It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. Put on your out of office. Take off to Wyndham Alltra all-inclusive resorts.

From soul-stirring landscapes and unlimited entertainment to upscale accommodations and superior service, Jewel Resorts offer quintessential island luxury. Whether it’s a sophisticated adults-only getaway at Jewel Paradise Cove or nonstop family-fun at Jewel Grande, guests can indulge in breathtaking beaches, diverse dining options, limitless libations, numerous watersports and extravagant accommodations, all included in their stay.

Sanctuary Cap Cana, a Luxury Collection Adult All-Inclusive Resort

Set along the Dominican Republic’s pure white sand beach, adults-only Sanctuary Cap Cana breathes luxury and romance, resembling a colonial castle town perched on a cliff by the sea. Combining beautiful architectural design with impeccable service and lavish accommodations, all-inclusive Sanctuary Cap Cana offers unlimited access to endless luxury.

N ional

HERITAGE

The Caribbean is a treasure trove for UK visitors interested in the British Navy’s (often dubious) colonial and military history.

In Antigua, Nelson’s Dockyard is part of Nelson Dockyard National Park, which also includes Clarence House and Shirley Heights. Despite declaring it a ‘vile spot’ when he arrived in 1784, it is named after the famous British seafaring captain, Horatio Nelson, who lived in the Royal Naval Dockyard whilst stationed there until 1787.

The dockyard has another more recent claim to fame: in 1982 Duran Duran filmed their ‘Waiting for the Nightboat’ music video in a dry dock there.

There are more Nelson links in Nevis, where Nelson made his mark as an ambitious young commander. It was here that he met plantation owner’s daughter Frances ‘Fanny’ Nisbet, the wife he would later scandalously leave for Lady Emma Hamilton.

The island’s main Nelson shrine also happens to be one of its best hotels.

The Montpelier Plantation stands on the site of the governor’s mansion where the ambitious young captain of HMS Boreas first met Fanny Nisbet around 1785.

In nearby St John’s church you can see their signatures in the registry and their

marriage certificate while the Horatio Nelson Museum in the capital Charlestown, boasts the largest collection of ‘Nelsonia’.

In neighbouring St. Kitts, a major attraction is Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a remarkable example of European military engineering dating from the 17th and 18th centuries - but also a lasting testimony to European colonial expansion and the African slave trade.

The fortress, which perches atop a 240-metre high extinct volcano with panoramic views over the south part of St Kitts and Caribbean Sea, dates from 1690 when the British installed a canon to drive out the French.

Also in times of European settlement in the Caribbean, the capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, was a major port for the shipment of goods for the British. One of the Caribbean’s earliest established towns, it was used as a trading port in the 17th century. Bridgetown and its Garrison is a World Heritage Site featuring colonial town buildings, the seaport and former garrison.

In Dominica, Fort Shirley is a part of the Cabrits National Park and is best known for an uprising by the enslaved African soldiers in 1802, an event that led to their freedom in 1807. The fort was used as a defence force between Britain and France in the 18th and 19th centuries.

In Martinique, Bibliothèque Schoelcher is a flamboyant building on the northwest corner of La Savane constructed for the 1889 World Exposition in Paris and then shipped here. It still functions as a free-entry public library.

In the British Virgin Islands, the Callwood Rum Distillery is a small, family-run business believed to be 400 years old. Tours are available from March through to August. •

Each nation of the Caribbean has a heritage of its own that will fascinate anyone who travels there to explore the historical narrative of the region

The Schoelcher Library, Martinique

Bridgetown, Barbados

history makers

Cruise control

The Caribbean continues to ride high as the world’s most popular cruising destination thanks to the rich profusion of islands that can be visited by ship.

Most cruise companies – and major lines such as Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises – have at least one or several ships in this region.

While the main cruise season is during winter, there are sailings year-round, with lines basing ships at islands such as Barbados or sailing from Florida ports including Miami and Port Canaveral, or other U.S. cities like New York and Galveston in Texas. There are also a handful of cruises that sail between the UK and the Caribbean.

As the cruise industry continues to recover from the pandemic and more Caribbean destinations open up, business is returning to normal, with not only the established players but some new names too.

The mainstays of most cruise programmes to this tropical region are Eastern Caribbean voyages, which visit the likes of Barbados,

Saint Lucia, St Kitts, the British Virgin Islands and Grenada, and Western Caribbean voyages, which include Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

However, itineraries vary between the larger ships of the mass market lines, which generally stick to the main destinations that can accommodate them, and boutique companies with smaller ships that can stop at smaller isles such as Nevis, St Martin, the Grenadines and smaller British Virgin Islands. Many major cruise lines also have their own private islands, mainly located in the Bahamas, that offer desert island experiences with water sports, beach barbecues and water play zones.

WhaT’s neW

Among smaller lines making their Caribbean debut this winter (2022/23) is the RitzCarlton Yacht Collection – the upscale hotel brand’s first foray into the cruising world with its mega-yacht Evrima, which offers a mix of short sailings in the Bahamas with longer voyages through the Grenadines to St Kitts, Antigua and the BVIs.

Another newcomer offering a swanky yacht-style experience is Emerald Cruises with its 100-guest EmeraldAzzurra, which sails round-trip voyages from Barbados to St Vincent and the Grenadines and also between St Martin and Barbados, with calls including Antigua and Martinique.

Boutique line Windstar, with its mixed fleet of classic sailing yachts and motor-yachts, will have three ships based in the Caribbean in winter 2023 and introduces a new Beach Fun & Sun sailing through the British Virgin Islands and French Caribbean.

Luxury line Silversea has 25 Caribbean cruises this winter, ranging from seven to 31 days, and its new ship Silver Dawn makes its debut in the region with sailings from Fort Lauderdale and Barbados, with calls including Bonaire, Tobago and Grenada.

French line Ponant has teamed up with Smithsonian Journeys for a lecture-led voyage exploring the Caribbean’s historical and cultural heritage on a sailing that starts at Vieux Fort in Saint Lucia, taking guests to Portsmouth in Dominica, Bequia and Mayreau in the Grenadines, Grenada’s capital St George’s and the Tobago Cays National Park, finishing in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Heading ashore with Princess Royal Caribbean ship in Coco Cay, The Bahamas

From luxury yachts to megaships and everything in between, cruise lovers are spoilt for choice in the Caribbean

Seabourn cruises in the Caribbean

Sea Cloud Cruises’ fleet of tall ships will also spend the winter in Caribbean waters, with its newest ship Sea Cloud Spirit making its debut and sailing to the tiny islands of Eleuthera and the Exumas in the Bahamas, another first for the line.

Among the larger lines, Celebrity Cruises is debuting its newest ship CelebrityBeyond , one of its three innovative Edge-class ships, which will all be in the region visiting islands that include Grand Cayman, St Maarten and the Bahamas.

P&O’s new mega-ship Arvia also celebrates its tropical debut as it sails from Southampton for a season of winter sailings from Barbados and Antigua, while Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship NorwegianPrima will make maiden calls to Jamaica and Grand Cayman.

Another ship making its mark is Carnival Celebration , the latest addition to the fleet of Carnival Cruise Line, which is offering both Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami.

Next winter (2023/24) sees another host of fresh arrivals with new luxury line Explora Journeys, owned by the giant MSC Group, deploying its first superyacht, ExploraI, in

the region, while upscale line Regent Seven Seas Cruises will have its latest ship Seven Seas Grandeur

One of the most exciting arrivals will be Royal Caribbean International’s new monolith Icon of the Seas which debuts in January 2024 as the world’s largest ship holding a record-breaking 7,600 passengers. It will sail year-round in the Caribbean, with calls including St Maarten and RCI’s own private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

exploring ashore

The Caribbean offers a huge and diverse range of activities to tempt cruise passengers ashore and in recent years these have evolved to showcase the region’s cultural heritage, distinctive musical rhythms and culinary flavours.

More adventurous diversions include helicopter tours of Antigua, speedboat rides along the coast of Saint Lucia (past its famous Twin Pitons), dune buggy adventures through the rugged terrain of the Dominican Republic, and a chairlift ride over the rainforest at Mystic Mountain on Jamaica where passengers can then speed along on a bobsled ride.

The Caribbean’s prized assets is its array of dazzling white-sand beaches, offering

plenty of opportunity for cruise guests to enjoy the azure seas during relaxing beach stops, perhaps taking one of the many boat trips along the coast for a picnic lunch and some snorkelling.

But some attractions are uniquely tied to the islands. In Jamaica, one of the most popular and best fun excursions is climbing Dunn’s River Falls or lazily floating down the river on a rafting trip.

No trip to Grand Cayman would be complete without visiting Stingray City –the famous sandbar where tame stingrays gather to be fed squid by holidaymakers –while one of the biggest draws in Barbados is Harrison’s Cave, where tourists can explore a series of underground chambers stretching for around 1.5 miles.

Several islands invite cruise excursion visitors to take a tour of grand plantation houses for a fascinating taste of life hundreds of years ago when slaves worked the sugar plantations on islands such as Jamaica, Barbados and St Kitts.

Today the grand houses are all that remain, and while the sugar industry has ceased, some fields of sugar cane remain to supply the various rum distilleries where visitors can see – and taste – this spirit that is so inexorably linked to Caribbean life and its famous sweet-tasting cocktails. •

Family fun on a Royal Caribbean cruise Windstar’s Star Legend cruises the Caribbean

“Many major cruise lines have their own private islands that offer desert island experiences with water sports and beach barbecues”

ST EUSTATIUS Seducedbythecharmsof

diving

St. Eustatius, or Statia as it’s often known, is blessed with some of the Caribbean’s best diving. Unlike many of the region’s other underwater hotspots, here you’ll never have to worry about crowds as you explore the treasure-filled shipwrecks in Oranje Bay or the aptly-named Blue Bead Hole, home to striking blue beads (a symbol of the island’s past), or the protected coral reefs that circle the island. Elsewhere, lava flows from recent volcanic activity create otherworldly underwater tapestries and three endangered sea turtle species are commonly sighted.

adventure

It might only be eight miles square, but the island of Statia is home to over a dozen hiking trails winding around its jagged coastline or crossing lush, verdant hills. The most essential trail will take you to the peak of The Quill, the dormant, 2,000-foot volcano which dominates the island. A hike to the summit can be completed in under an hour, but you will want to leave time to explore the Quill’s inner crater, which is home to a spectacular tropical rainforest.

tranquility

Statia is a place to unplug, relax and unwind. From the moment you land at F. D. Roosevelt Airport, the sound of small, single-engine planes taking off and landing, or the faint hum of the new Makana Ferry to and from Saba, St. Maarten, and St. Kitts are just about the only noises of note you’ll encounter on your stay. What you will hear are gentle crashing waves, braying goats and chirps from the more than 30 bird species that make their home here.

experience

Statia has changed hands 19 times between the Dutch, English, and French, so has more historical monuments per square mile than any other Caribbean island. Its capital, Oranjestad, was once the region’s busiest trading port. In its ‘Upper Town’ are the remnants of Honen Dalim, the second-oldest Jewish synagogue in the New World. Steps away is the newly-restored Fort Oranje where, in 1776, Governor Johannes de Graaff offered the first international recognition of the newly-chartered United States, via an 11-gun salute to the USS Andrew Doria. A brass plaque, presented by Franklin D. Roosevelt to mark Statia’s pivotal role, hangs here.

A rich history, stunning natural beauty and the absence of mass tourism combine to give this little-known island its uniquely low-key vibe

“Personally committed to make your

an extraordinary one”

Party time

Make everlasting memories by joining the fun at one of the Caribbean’s festivals, carnivals and events

What better way to fully immerse yourself in the Caribbean vibe than to party the evening away with locals. With a year-round calendar packed with carnivals, celebrations and concerts, the biggest chalenge will likely be deciding which one to join.

Feel the beat

From reggae meets to jazz festivals, musiclovers will find fun at festivals year-round across the region.

Starting off the year on a high note is Reggae Salute in Jamaica. Venture there in January and celebrate the home of reggae amongst the very best dancehall, roots reggae and reggae fusion artists, with arts and food villages to explore too.

In February 2023, Vujaday is scheduled to make a post-Covid return in Barbados – for five days of techno beats magic, mischief and mayhem. The self-proclaimed place where island relaxation and festival culture seamlessly intersect, this dance-music festival proves more popular every year.

For a super-casual festival overlooking the ocean, the Virgin Islands Jam Fest takes place in St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands on the first weekend in March. On the same weekend in Cuba is Fiesta del Tambor, Cuba’s annual percussion festival. Get involved with drumming workshops or watch on as experts battle it out in competitions. April brings all things jazz to Trinidad and Tobago with the Tobago Jazz Experience. Promising music, landscapes and ambiance, visitors will discover culinary delights and Tobago’s rich heritage.

Head to Aruba in May for the Soul Beach Music Festival (SBMF), regularly lauded as one of the best Caribbean music festivals of the year. Expect a buzzing party atmosphere with plenty of beats both day and night.

For something a bit more chilled, Saint Lucia’s Wellness Music Festival strives to bring together wellness and music to nurture the mind, body and soul.

Starting in late September, the music line-up will feature a mix of international, regional and local artists who are advocates for the wellness lifestyle.

Carnival Crazy

The Caribbean comes into its own during carnival, when locals sporting elaborate colourful costumes parade energetically through the streets, fuelled by the infectiously upbeat sounds of steel bands and, of course, generous helpings of good food and drink. There’s a whole host of carnivals across the region, each offering something unique and special to its home.

At Curaçao’s Carnival (February–March), it’s the parades that take centre-stage. The Gran Marcha (The Grand Parade) and Marcha di Despedida (The Farewell March) are particularly unmissable. Unique to Curaçao’s Carnival is the Tumba Festival, where local artists compete to win the coveted title of Tumba King/Queen, in turn making their Tumba (song) the official anthem of that year’s carnival.

Antigua and Barbuda’s carnival takes place annually on the island of Antigua in late July/early August. The most important

caribbean.co.uk

Carnival in Curacao

Cocktails in Dominica

Puerto Rico’s nightlife

day of the celebrations is j’ouvert, when the sounds of brass and steel bands can be heard across the nation.

Also in July is the Saint Lucia Carnival. In addition to parades, competitions are rife in Saint Lucia as revellers battle it out in the popular Power and Groovy Soca Monarch competition, Senior and Junior Panoramas (steel pan competitions), and the InterCommercial House Calypso competition.

something diFFerent

The events calendar in the Cayman Islands is varied, with themed events for all tastes.

Foodies will be pleased to discover that the much-loved annual Cayman Cookout is making a grand return in January 2023 after a twoyear hiatus.

As well as expert chefs who cook up some unbeatable creations, there is also a heavy emphasis on beverages, with various events and menus designed through the lens of master mixologists.

For families, Pirates Fest is a must. No other Caribbean nation celebrates its pirate legends quite like The Cayman Islands.

In November, expect pirate-themed party nights, costume contests, fireworks, parades, music and more across the islands.

The British Virgin Islands’ Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival returns in March 2023 with special celebrations promised as it celebrates its 50th edition.

In Belize, home-grown specialties are showcased at the annual Belize Cashew Festival and Agriculture Show. The two-day event in May celebrates a wide array of cashew products, from pastries

to wine, best sampled competitively in the cashew wine drinking competition.

Also taking place in May is the Grenada Chocolate Festival, at which visitors can join the locals and trek through tropical cacao forests, meeting cacao farmers and chocolatiers and discovering the health benefits of dark chocolate – and, of course, taking part in some obligatory chocolate sampling! •

“In November, expect piratethemed party nights, costume contests, fireworks, parades, music and more across the islands”

Carnival time in Grenada

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES It’stimetoexploretheislandsof

NATURAL BEAUTY

The 32 islands and cays of St. Vincent and The Grenadines (SVG) are nestled among the south-eastern Windward Islands.

Characterised by pristine beauty, natural landscapes, sustainable development and a nostalgic Caribbean scene, SVG offers diverse experiences: eco-adventures; sailing and yachting; snorkeling and diving; romance and weddings; and festivals like Vincy Mas, billed as the hottest carnival in the Caribbean.

Take your pick of SVG’s nine inhabited gems – St. Vincent, Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, Union Island, Palm Island, Petit St. Vincent and the remarkable Tobago Cays Marine Park, or easily island hop to discover its many charms.

Sail among five uninhabited cays, indulge in a castaway-style picnic and snorkel with turtles in a marine sanctuary

TOBAGO CAYS

Haiti

Turks & Caicos

Puerto Rico

British Virgin Islands

Saint-Martin

Dominican Republic

US Virgin Islands

CARIBBEAN SEA

Aruba

Anguilla

St. Eustatius

St. Kitts

Nevis

Montserrat

St. Maarten

Antigua & Barbuda

Guadeloupe

Dominica

Saint Lucia

St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Martinique Bonaire

Curaçao

VENEZUELA

Grenada

Trinidad & Tobago

Barbados

Guyana

airlines and tour operators

TOUR OPERATORS

Aruba Warm welcome to

Aeropuerto Internacional Reina Beatrix is Aruba’s singular airport, connecting you to the One Happy Island. Aruba is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, always-perfect weather, and warm and welcoming culture. Whether you are looking for an adventurous experience, family-friendly fun, or a romantic escape, an Aruba vacation is always a great idea.

Aruba Airport’s connections are diverse, offering daily flights to over 30 international destinations.

Aruba Airport is ready to welcome you to Aruba and beyond.

BOOK NOW

 Trade/Sales  Consumer/Reservation

AIRLINES

British Airways

 +44 (0) 844 493 0787 (con)

 ba.com/caribbean

 batraveltrade.com

Virgin Atlantic Airways

 +44 (0) 344 209 7705 

 +44 (0) 344 874 7747 

 sales.support@fly.virgin.com 

 customer.relations.uk@fly.virgin.com 

 virginatlantic.com

JetBlue Airways

 +44 (0) 7494 749 129

 DearJetBlue@jetblue.com

 jetblue.com

interCaribbean Airways

 +44 (0) 203 885 0203

 customerservice@interCaribbean.com

 intercaribbean.com

ALLIED

WTM - Reed Travel Exhibitions

 +44 (0) 20 8271 2171

 wtmteam@reedexpo.co.uk

 wtmlondon.com

D ES t INAt I o N M ANA g EMEN t Co M pAN y

St. James Travel & Tours

 +1 246 432 0774

 info@stjamesgroup.com

 stjamesgroup.com

H ot ELS & ACC o MM o DAt I o N

Advantage Management Group

 +44 (0) 20 8487 9881

 info@amgltd.biz

 amgrepresentation.com

Anse Chastanet & Jade Mountain

 +44 (0) 800 141 2859 

 ansechastanet@ansechastanet.com

 jademountain@ansechastanet.com

 ansechastanet.com

 jademountain.com

Bequia Beach Hotel

 +1 784 458 1700

 reservations@bequiabeachhotel.com

 bequiabeachhotel.com

Blue Waters Resorts & Spa

 +44 (0) 870 360 1245

 reservations@bluewaters.net

 bluewaters.net

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort

 +44 (0)161 791 9787 

 +1 888 428 2884 (con)

 reservations@bucuti.com

 bucuti.com

Cara Hotel Marketing Ltd

 +44 (0) 20 3959 0959

 info@carahotelmarketing.com

 carahotelmarketing.com

Cayman Villas

 +1 800-235-5888

 345-945-4144

 info@caymanvillas.com

 reservations@caymanvillas.com

 caymanvillas.com

Cottages By The Sea

 (340) 772-0495

 vacation@caribbeancottages.com

 caribbeancottages.com

Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Barbados

 +1 246 422 5555 

 +44 (0) 1344 887 003 

 royalpavilion@fairmont.com

 fairmont.com/royalpavilion

Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort

 +599 318 3348

 info@goldenrockresort.com

 goldenrockresort.com

Group Promotions

 +44 (0) 1582 792 260

 sales@group-promotions.com

 info@group-promotions.com

Ladera Resort

 +001 (758) 459 6600

 +44 (0) 7715 490 591

 reservations@ladera.com

 Sian@ladera.com

 ladera.com

Majestic Resorts

 +1-888-477-7227

 callcenter@majestic-resorts.com

 majestic-resorts.com/en/

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan

 +1 212 461 8068 

 +44 (0) 7931 477 804 

 mocan-reservations@mohg.com 

 amillar@mohg.com 

 mandarinoriental.com/canouan

Marriott International

 +44 (0) 800 917 3534 (Freephone)

 reservations@eleganthotels.com

 all-inclusive.marriott.com

 marriott.com

Montpelier Plantation & Beach

 +1 869 469 3462

 info@montpeliernevis.com

 montpeliernevis.com

Paradise Promotions Marketing

 +44 (0) 8 679 2508

 victoria@paradise-promotions.co.uk

 paradise-promotions.co.uk

Park Hyatt, St. Kitts

 +1 869 468 1234

 reservations.phstkitts@hyatt.com

 parkhyattstkitts.com

Resort Marketing International

 +44 (0) 1245 459 900

 cp@resort-marketing.co.uk

 res@resort-marketing.co.uk

 resort-marketing.co.uk

Sandals & Beaches Resorts

 +44 (0) 800 022 3030

 sales@sandals.co.uk

 sandals.co.uk

TOP VILLAS

 +44 (0) 1227 647042

 info@thetopvillas.com

True Blue Bay Boutique Resort

 +1 473-443-8783

 reservations@truebluebay.com

 truebluebay.com

Van Isacker Exclusive

 +44 (0) 7530 878 591

 sales@van-isacker.com

 pvanisacker@van-isacker.com

 van-isacker.com

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort

 +1 877 522 0722

 reservations@windjammer-landing.com

 windjammer-landing.com

MEDIA/o NLINE

Mirabelle Commmunications

 +44 20 8681 5799

 info@mirabelle.co.uk

 mirabelle.co.uk

MHI Travel Media LTD

 +44 (0) 20 4532 1510

 Hello@mhitravelmedia.com

 mhitravelmedia.com

Selling Travel

 +44 (0) 20 8649 7233

 sales@bmipublishing.co.uk

 editorial@bmipublishing.co.uk

 sellingtravel.co.uk

Travel Bulletin

 +44 (0) 20 7834 6661

 jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk

 travelbulletin.co.uk

Travel Weekly

 +44 (0) 20 7881 4877

 editorial@travelweekly.co.uk

 travelweekly.co.uk

TTG Media

 +44 (0) 20 3714 4103

 JFrancis@ttgmedia.com

 ttgmedia.com

caribbean.co.uk

to UR op ERAto RS

Affordable Luxury Travel

 +44 (0) 20 7612 7237

 res@affordableluxurytravel.co.uk

 affordableluxurytravel.co.uk

Caribtours

 +44 (0) 20 7751 0660

 escapes@caribtours.co.uk

 caribtours.co.uk

Charitable Travel

 +44 (0) 20 3092 1288

 bookings@charitable.travel

 charitable.travel/

Club Caribbee  +44 (0) 20 8682 1115

 sales@clubcaribbee.co.uk

 clubcaribbee.co.uk

Havanatour UK Limited

 +44 (0) 1707 537 513

 +44 (0) 1707 646463

 sales@havanatour.co.uk

 havanatour.co.uk

Inspire My Holiday

 enquiries@inspiremyholiday.com

 inspiremyholiday.com

Kenwood Travel

 +44 (0) 20 7749 9245

 caribbean@kenwoodtravel.co.uk

 kenwoodtravel.co.uk

Kuoni Travel Ltd  +44 (0) 800 092 4444  holidays@kuoni.co.uk  kuoni.co.uk

Newmont Travel Ltd

 +44 (0) 20 8920 1144

 sales@hotelsofthecaribbean.co.uk

 hotelsofthecaribbean.co.uk

Sackville Travel/Q Holidays

 +44 (0) 20 7326 7699 

 +44 (0) 20 7326 3100   sales@sackvilletravel.com  Sackvilletravel.com

Seven Dragons Group LTD  +44 (0) 1752 922098

 hello@sevendragonsgroup.com

 sevendragonsgroup.com

Southall Travel

 +44 (0) 20 8843 4444

 helpdesk@southalltravel.co.uk

 southalltravel.co.uk

Tropical Sky  +44 (0) 1342 395 316

 info@tropicalsky.co.uk

 tropicalsky.co.uk

to URIS t o FFICES

Anguilla Tourist Board

 +1 264 497 2759

 info@ivisitanguilla.com

 ivisitanguilla.com

Antigua & Barbuda Tourist Office

 +44 (0) 20 3668 3800

 tourisminfo@aandbtourism.com

 visitantiguabarbuda.com

Aruba Tourism Authority

 +44 (0) 1332 588 799

 ata.uk@aruba.com

 aruba.com

The Bahamas Tourist Office

 +44 (0) 20 7355 0800

 info@bahamas.co.uk

 bahamas.com

Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

 +44 (0) 800 0163 098

 btmiuk@visitbarbados.org

 visitbarbados.org

Belize Tourist Board

 +44 (0) 20 7326 9880

 belize@finnpartners.com

 travelbelize.org

The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board

 +44 (0) 20 7355 9585

 info@bvi.org.uk

 bvitourism.co.uk

The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

 +44 (0) 20 7491 7771

 info-uk@caymanislands.ky

 visitCaymanIslands.com

Curaçao Tourist Board

 +31 70 891 6600

 info@ctbe.nl

 curacao.com

Discover Dominica Authority

 +44 (0) 20 7326 9880

 dominica@finnpartners.com

 discoverdominica.com

Dominican Republic Tourist Board

 +44 (0) 20 3794 0661

 uk@godominicanrepublic.com

 godominicanrepublic.com

Grenada Tourism Authority

 +1 473 440 2001

 info@puregrenada.com

 puregrenada.com

Jamaica Tourist Board

 +44 (0) 20 7225 9090

 tlewis@visitjamaica.com

 visitjamaica.com

Martinique Tourism Authority

 +33 1 44 77 86 00

 infos@martiniquetourisme.com

 martinique.org

Montserrat Tourism Division

 +1 664 491 4702/4703

 info@montserrattourism.ms

 visitmontserrat.com

Nassau Paradise Island

Promotion Board

 +1 242-502-4223

 info@npipb.com

 nassauparadiseisland.com

Discover Puerto Rico

 +1 787-710-8280

 info@discoverpuertorico.com

 discoverpuertorico.com

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

 +44 (0) 20 7341 7000

 sltainfo@stluciauk.org

 stlucia.org

See more of the Caribbean

Islands full of flavour, traditional Caribbean charm and natural beauty –each with their own distinctive character and so much to discover on one incredible holiday. We’re here with the very best holiday and multi centre recommendations including stop overs in New York or Miami.

Grenada | The Grenadines | Dominica | Barbados | St Lucia | Antigua

St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation

 +559 318 2433

 info@statia-tourism.com

 statia-tourism.com

St. Kitts Tourism Authority

 +1 869 465 4040

 uk@stkittstourism.kn

 stkittstourism.kn

St. Vincent and The Grenadines Tourist Board

 (784) 456-6222

 svgta@discoversvg.com

 discoversvg.com

Tobago Tourism Agency

 +44 (0) 20 8487 9881

 Tobago@amgltd.biz

 TobagoBeyond.com

CELEBRATE THE ART OF LIFE ®

At Zoëtry, retreat to a boutique haven that envelops you in the luxury, privacy and freedom you deserve. Relish in life’s unhurried pleasures with the highest level of personal service. Pursue enriching experiences that inspire and connect you with loved ones and the rich history, cuisine and unique story of the places you travel. Cultivate the moments that matter most with Endless Privileges ® and only at Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts.

CONTACT YOUR PREFERRED TRAVEL AGENT FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

Scattered across eight idyllic Caribbean islands you’ll discover our 17 allinclusive, breathtaking resorts. You can enjoy creatively crafted cocktails and indulge in mouth-watering cuisine at up to 16 on-resort restaurants, all included within your stay. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, look no further - we include that too with unlimited land and water sports. Here at the World’s Leading All-Inclusive Resorts we’ve been perfecting all-inclusive holidays for over 40 years, leaving you to sit back, relax and enjoy all that’s included.

0800 742 742 | SANDALS.CO.UK

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT FOR TRAVEL AGENTS PLEASE VISIT SANDALS.CO.UK/AGENTS