Tag Archives: Caribbean

Bermuda, Caribbean, Europe, Florida, Florida Keys, Greece, Islands, Mexico, Plan

Where to Go this Fall

August 30, 2023

When the summer travel rush subsides, you’ll find fewer crowds and lower temperatures, all conducive to exploring some of these stunning destinations around the world. Uncover gorgeous beaches, challenging hiking trails, and meaningful connections to nature at these six spots. Whether you sneak in a long weekend or plan a full-on month away, these places are certain to captivate.

Zakynthos

One of the four larger Greek islands of the Ionian Sea, this isle gets its points for natural beauty. The rocky headlands and white sand beach contrasting with the cobalt sea paint the scene. Inland the scenery is lush, green, and packed with flora and fauna. The eastern side is where you’ll find sandy beaches and on the west coast caves and cliffs. However, the most photographed stretch of sand is Shipwreck Beach, only accessible by boat, showcasing both sandy shores and rocky headlands.

A highlight for visitors to Zakynthos, Greece is the scenic Blue Caves. Access is via the road which includes a walk down 100 steps or by boat. Photo: sietevidas/iStock

The second most famous attraction is the loggerhead turtles, and the National Marine Park of Zakynthos is a spot to see and learn about these amazing docile creatures and other marine life. Summer is the start of nesting season and from May to August hundreds of eggs are laid in the soft sands of the eastern and southern beaches. Hatchlings appear from late July until October and chances to see turtles swimming is best during that time. While it may be tempting to join a boat tour to see the turtles be aware that some may not have the turtle’s best interest in mind. Look for an eco-friendly tour that does not chase, remove, or allow human contact or interference with the animal. Better yet visit the Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Centre https://zanteturtlecenter.com/en/ and if time permits devote two weeks to help with the conservation efforts. To learn more about protection and conservation visit ARCHELONE The Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece. https://archelon.gr/en

Isla Mujeres

You might hear that the best time to visit Isla Mujeres is in the winter when the weather is more agreeable. But summer and fall offer options like turtle laying season and turtle release programs which take place from late August into October. This is also the time when the whale sharks gather north of the island, typically from June to September. Here, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea the abundance of marine fish spawning gets the attention of these giant filter-feeders. Swimming with these gentle creatures is a lifetime experience. And thanks to the protocol that keeps masses of swimmers from invading them they will remain docile and majestic frolicking in their feeding grounds in the middle of the ocean where they find plenty of algae, krill, and fish eggs.

Whale shark swimming off the coast of Isla Mujeres, Mexico. These slow-moving gentle giants are the largest fish in the sea. Photo: Martin Voeller/iStock

While there are plenty of options for a swimming excursion, the reputable boats will only take 10 passengers out and only two at a time are allowed to enter the water so plan on a full day; it’s a good hour boat ride to get out to where the whale sharks hang out. Of course, you need a mask, snorkel, fins, and a shorty suit, a 3 mm should be fine. Most charter boats will provide snorkel gear and lifejackets which are mandatory. And, make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe which means no oxybenzone and octinoxate. Aqua Adventures Eco Divers, is a 5 Star Padi Dive Center and offers swims with the whale sharks and manta rays. They run the boats with 6-10 people from mid-May until mid- September. To book with them: https://diveislamujeres.com/

Azores

Spring to Fall in the Azores is punctuated with flowers growing on hillsides, in fields, along paths, and in home gardens. The volcanic soil gets the credit for the rich and stunning shades of blue and purple hydrangea that mark pathways and are seen in landscapes overlooking lakes. The height of hydrangea flowering is May, but once those blooms have faded the islands are graced with flowering ginger in August and September.

Beautiful rows of hydrangea flowers on the northern coast of Flores, Portugal. Blooms begin in late April and can last until mid-September. Photo: Danaan Andrew- Pacleb/iStock

But visitors come for more than just the flower show; the natural scenery and views on these islands are most impressive. And during the fall, the tourists have dissipated making the islands truly a land to discover on your own. Hiking, walking, and trekking leads to waterfalls, craters, and lakes. By one account there are 83 marked trails to explore. For trails to explore on your own: https://trails.visitazores.com/en If you want to go with an organized group several tour companies take you to volcanic peaks and charming villages. Check out: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/ https://www.backroads.com/ https://www.gadventures.com/

Bermuda

After a warm summer, the water temperature is ideal for long swims and snorkeling explorations along the pink shores of the south coast beaches. Easy beach access makes Horseshoe Bay and Church Bay ideal after the crowds thin out following the June through August high season, and the air temperature will still be warm and balmy. During this endless summertime, you’ll want to explore underwater seas surrounding the islands whether you are a driver or just like to don a mask and snorkel. Snorkel excursions are available around the island from watersports operators like K.S. Watersports https://kswatersports.com/ and Snorkel Adventures Bermuda https://www.bermudasnorkeling.com/. Known as The Shipwreck Capital of the Atlantic, there are over 300 wrecks around the islands plus underwater reefs, rocks, coves, caves, and grottos to explore. For dive and snorkel trips Dive Bermuda https://www.bermudascuba.com/ has two new locations at Somerset and Grotto Bay.

The pink sands and cerulean waters of Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda’s most photographed beach along the south shore are always popular during high season. Photo: Dani Dragoescu/Shutterstock

On land, you’ll want to take in local cuisine which focuses on fresh seafood including tuna, wahoo, amberjack, red hind, rockfish as well and Bermuda spiny lobster during the season which runs from September through the end of March. For a day of tasting visit St. George’s Seafood Festival during the event on September 17 when the island’s talented chefs showcase all versions of local catch. Art lovers will want to check out the first annual Art Month in October. This month-long event will bring together the island’s art community and visiting artists with workshops, beach sip and paint sessions, art tours, and discussions. https://www.gotobermuda.com/event/art-month

Key Largo

Fall is a good time for a snorkeling trip to Key Largo, the northernmost and longest of the Florida Keys just an hour south of Miami. The summer travelers have vacated so crowds are lessened, and the water remains warm so you can leave the wetsuit behind. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary https://floridakeys.noaa.gov/ is the only coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. and covers 3,800 miles of pristine waters stretching from Miami to the Dry Tortugas. There are a plethora of spots to snorkel and dive among wrecks and coral reefs. Popular sites include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park https://pennekamppark.com/, the first underwater park which opened in 1963. Molasses Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area may be the world’s most visited reef as snorkelers find shallow waters making it easy to view star and brain coral, sea fans and sponges and colorful parrotfish as well as the occasional sea turtle or stingray. You’ll want to book a snorkel trip with a Blue Star operator, https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/bluestar/ who practice responsible diving and snorkeling trips. Sea Dwellers Dive Center https://www.seadwellers.com/ offers snorkeling trips to both Molasses Reef and John Pennekamp and follows the Blue Star protocol.

A school of goatfish and blue-striped grunts swim on the seascape of Molasses Reef and the shipwreck of the City of Washington in Key Largo. Photo: Swimwitdafishes/iStock

We all know the world’s coral reefs are in danger of disappearing. But there are chances to see the underwater wonders and opportunities to join in coral renewal and restoration programs in the Florida Keys. You can help the team as a volunteer with the Coral Restoration Foundation in Key Largo as a diver or at the center by building coral trees. There’s also the opportunity to participate in a community dive and snorkel program. https://www.coralrestoration.org/

Corsica

Known as The Isle of Beauty the French island of Corsica is blessed with spectacular scenery including 200 beaches. Some strands are hidden with secret coves and others are backed by mountainous scenery and only accessible on foot. The beaches in the north, the Haute- Corse region are untamed, and you won’t find any amenities, however, the beaches in the southern region of Corse-du-Sud have plenty of watersports available and the necessary comforts.

The path down from Genoese Tower along the Parata peninsula unveils a panorama vista of the west coast of the French island of Corsica. Photo: Sasha64f/Getty Images

During the summer when it’s sunny and hot, the beaches are where you’ll want to be. A visit in the fall after the tourists have vanished and it’s prime time for a hike. This rugged and mountainous Mediterranean isle is a hiker’s paradise. More than half the island is made up of parks with marked and unmarked trails unveiling breathtaking coastlines. Trails can be an easy walk or the hard core GR20 which is considered the most difficult hike in Europe and takes about two weeks. If you want to go it a bit easier then join in a walking tour with Backroads. They have a six-day walking & hiking tour that includes coastal towns and mountain hamlets. For more info: www.backroads.com/trips/WSCI-9/corsica-walking- hiking-tour

Aruba, Caribbean, Plan, Trip Ideas

Why You Should Visit Aruba in 2023

May 5, 2023

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Aruba hasn’t missed a beat in the past few years. During and after the pandemic visitors have continued to arrive on the One Happy Island with no signs of interruptions. Friendly people, ideal climate, global diverse cuisine, and beachfront resorts keep visitors coming back.

High Wind

This year’s Aruba Hi-Winds competition comes early in May and draws water sports enthusiasts from around the world and the Caribbean to compete and watch the action. What began as a windsurfing event has evolved and grown to include the latest version of wind-powered sailing craft–the foil. Both kiteboarders and windsurfers have added this version for speed and distance sailing. The event includes several categories like big air kiteboarding, kite foiling long-distance, and long- distance windsurfing: there are youth categories and even a sunfish sailing race. This popular event began in 1986 when two local windsurfers, Anthony Blok and Ruben Croes decided to share the secret winds of Aruba with the world. At that time, windsurfing was one of the hottest sports worldwide with top athletes like Robby Naish, Stephan van den Berg, and Natalie Lelièvre competing on a professional basis at the Aruba Hi-Winds. Today’s event is minus the big purse but a total of $20,000.00 will be handed out to winners along with trophies and other prizes. The action will take over Fisherman’s Huts where the sand converts into a collage of colorful sails and boards and on the southern end of the island at Boca Grandi where competitors catch big air. The five-day competition runs from May 17 to May 22, 2023. To register: https://www.arubahiwinds.com/

Hi-Winds is the largest amateur windsurfing and kiteboarding competition in the world and takes place every year in Aruba. Photo: ARTN Photography/Aruba Tourism Authority

Global Cuisine

Peruvian food is in the spotlight and while Lima is one of the hottest culinary destinations in the world Aruba is chiming in with several hot spots featuring seafood in a range of Peruvian cooking styles. Peru’s cuisine incorporates some of the most biodiverse crops and hundreds of varieties of corn, potatoes, and quinoa endemic to the country appear in menus in Peru and around the world. Order up a selection of ceviche accented in roasted corn and sweet potatoes along with a Pisco cocktail fashioned with brandy, lime, and simple syrup with egg white foam afloat and you’ll be transported to Peru. Family- owned and run, Delimar is located in Oranjestad and serves tasty and unpretentious meals. Lunch and dinner offerings include a collection of ceviche dishes, which are the cornerstone of Peruvian cuisine. Order the dish with just fish or explore more layered textures and tastes with a combo including shrimp, squid, and octopus. For more details: https://www.delimararuba.com/

Así Es Mi Peru also in downtown Oranjestad came on the scene in 2016 and gets plenty of kudos for its authentic cuisine. Dining is a tad upmarket with white linens accented with colorful table runners and meticulously designed plates. The team of Peruvian chefs prepares dishes like, pescado a lo macho (fish filet with creamy seafood sauce and Peruvian spices) and lomo saltado (pan-seared steak al la Peru ) and a long list of appetizers with various renditions of ceviche. Don’t pass on the Peruvian Cuzqueña beer. Deserts include arroz con leche and picarones– sticky doughnuts dripping in honey and cinnamon. See more at: https://asiesmiperuenaruba.com/

The latest on the scene is Lima Bistro which opened in June of 2021. The spot is on the marina at the Harbour House Condominiums in Oranjestad. Inside, a hanging star guides the way for patrons to tables or the bar, a tribute, and designation to the North Star. The open kitchen invites insights to preparation and ingredients and a sneak look at the components in the daily spontaneous creations the chef dreams up. Take a table outdoors and dine as they would in Peru overlooking the Pacific. Chef Teddy gets plenty of accolades for his combinations and creative flavors inspired from his home in Lima. After culinary school and a journey around the world to glean his culinary techniques and tastes and a final stop in San Sebastian, Spain he returned to the New World. His menu is well-rounded with seafood, duck, pork, beef, lamb, and even a veggie dish. As with most Peruvian establishments, the list of ceviche is extensive, after all, it’s the national dish of Peru and becomes a point of pride in the kitchen. Sweets combine Peruvian and Aruban comfort foods. Visit them at: https://www.limabistro.com/

Cozy and colorful interiors of the Lima Bistro in Aruba. Photo: Call Me Petit/Lima Bistro

Room Updates

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba has completed its new look, not that the old one was so bad. Keeping in tune with the local ambiance, the rooms are now using locally inspired designs and motifs. Colors and textures reflect an ocean motif with flowing waves. A color palette of beige, blue and green replicates the Aruba landscape and coastal area, and new artwork showcases aloe plants and succulents found in the natural environment. https://www.ritzcarlton.com/

A brand new all-suite property opened its doors across the street from Eagle Beach, the best, most photographed and widest beach on the island. Embassy Suites by Hilton debuted its 330 rooms evoking a homier experience. The idea is to offer a place you might live, which is right in the middle of all Aruba has to offer. Oranjestad is nearby along with a slew of restaurants, bars, and shops. Eagle Beach is just a walk across the street and Palm Beach is a short ride. https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/auajmes-embassy- suites-aruba-resort/

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, also in Eagle Beach has undergone major renovations to all studios and suites that include using bright Dutch Caribbean colors which the hotel’s architecture has embraced over time. You can’t miss the brightly painted golden yellow buildings showcasing Dutch colonial architecture. Passions on the Beach and Horizons Bar both got a jolt of energy and some sprucing up. Certified by EarthCheck, the resort is working on water, energy and land usage. Monthly beach cleanups, a reduction in single-use plastics and a program to protect Aruba’s flora and fauna are part of their green imitative. https://www.amsterdammanor.com/

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba is located in the heart of Eagle Beach. Photo: Amsterdam Manor

Art Movement

Aruba has its share of local artists and with a diverse ethnic community, the art scene is fueled and influenced by techniques and media used around the world, and in Aruba, that world is constantly evolving. There are three art schools on the island and numerous galleries and museums. You can find primitive art, multi-media productions, textiles, traditional oil on canvas, and murals that continue to materialize overnight. Art shows and pop-up galleries appear at a minute’s notice. There is an organized art show that takes place in San Nicholas in November. San Nicholas, the island’s second largest town has transformed from the oil refinery community of the mid-1900s along with its red-light district (which is still active) into a thriving art community where murals welcome arrivals and spontaneously appear on dilapidated buildings brightening up the Sunshine City.

Legendary Charlie’s Bar is considered a piece of art on its own merit with a multi-layered décor of license plates, flags, plaques, and novelty items dangling from the ceiling. It’s become a subject for local artists to interpret. The family-run bar is still going strong with the third generation now manning the storefront. Today people come to San Nicholas from around the world not just to have a beer at Charlie’s but for the art. It’s the place to be if you are an artist or art lover. The fifth edition of the Aruba Art Fair takes place November 4 to 6, 2023, and promises to be a celebration and an inspiration with various art disciplines including fashion, mosaics, murals, and more. There were 150 exhibitors at the last show in 2019 so expect a big turnout. For more information: https://arubaartfair.com/

Taking shots of the murals from the streets of San Nicholas, Aruba. Photo: Aruba Art Fair

Music & Comedy

Long time music festival celebrating 21 years running brings in internationally known musicians and celebrities for a long weekend of concerts. Talent at the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba this Memorial Day weekend will include Jill Scott, Lucky Daye, The Roots, Deon Cole, Tiffany Haddish, and more. The kick-off party happens Wednesday eve May 24 and features guest DJs. Moomba Beach is the venue during the day on Thursday and the evening concerts run from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. A comedy concert is set, and more main stage concerts run for the consecutive nights until the finale which is Memorial Day Cool Down when it’s back to the beach for the day with DJs hosting the party and barbeque. Dates are May 24 thru May 29, 2023. For tickets: https://soulbeach.net/2023/

The lineup of past talent at the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba included Mary J. Blige. Photo: Soul Beach Music Festival

Anguilla, Caribbean, Plan, Trip Ideas

Why You Should Visit Anguilla in 2023

May 4, 2023

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This long skinny coral island surrounded by white sands and electric blue water is a top choice for many. Receiving constant awards and top ratings from travelers and the press it’s hard to pass up a trip here. Immersed in beachside elegance with posh resorts, small boutique properties, and one-of-a-kind luxurious villas the island is packed with hospitality. With a selection of superb eateries, friendly beachside bars, and arguably the best sand beaches in the region, Anguilla is ready to explore.

Culinary Journey

Roadside barbeque chicken and ribs with johnnycakes to five- star culinary dining experiences are what you’ll find on Anguilla. A long-time favorite, Blanchards may have set the bar high when the stateside couple moved to the island opened their restaurant, and published their book, A Trip to the Beach which put the island on the map with foodies. Five-star resorts brought in five-star chefs and today the island is bursting with multilayered flavors and menus you might find in faraway lands. Tasting menus whet the appetites of gastronauts and neophytes will find they can pick up a recipe or two at a cooking class. At Aurora Resort & Spa, formerly Cuisinart you’ll take part in crafting an authentic Anguillian lunch with johnnycakes, bush tea marinated fish, coconut lime rice, and jerk butternut squash. A visit to the hydroponic farm which supplies 90% of the produce used in the menus followed by a farm-to-table garden dinner is tops on the list. The changing menu incorporates the freshest ingredients from the garden and the distinctive dinner takes place twice a month. The ultimate dining and cooking experience is now an annual event that takes place in early May. The Anguilla Culinary Experience brings in chefs from the States and Europe who cook alongside local talent. Dinners, cooking demonstrations, and hands-on classes are all part of the event.

Plated fish from the first year’s Anguilla Culinary Experience. Photo: Zuri Wilkes/Anguilla Culinary Experience

Celebrating Summer

One of the biggest festivals and most popular on the island takes place over ten days during the late summer. This idyllic and quiet island cranks up the energy where everyone is engaged in some aspect of the Anguilla Summer Festival. Lazy days along the seashore change up and turn into energetic beach parties bustling with music, food, and boat racing. The Anguilla Summer Festival is part Carnival with parades, street dancing, calypso competitions, and beauty pageants and part emancipation celebration with maypole and Moka Jumbie dancers. The celebratory first Monday in August originated to observe the abolition of slavery in the British Colonies. Today the date is the driving force for a series of parties that combine historic aspects, customs, and activities influenced by African descendants with contemporary celebrations and music. Boat racing begins at Sandy Ground and Meads Bay with an around- the-island race where spectators follow their boat of choice with binoculars in hand. The Valley, the capital, sits mid-island and is where parades begin, some make the six-hour march to Sandy Ground. Plan on eating plenty of barbeques and local seafood, johnnycakes, and tamarind balls. The annual Anguilla Summer Festival runs from July 30 to August 7, 2023.

Women wear elaborate and intricate sequin and feather costumes during the Anguilla Summer Festival. Photo: Anguilla Tourism

Penthouse Views

Lovers of luxury flock to Anguilla, after all, there are several five- star properties to choose from. When it’s time to find that private space where the view is all yours a penthouse vista is the answer. Treat yourself to the ultimate privacy and exclusivity offered on the top floor. These three properties are small enough to give that home away from home feel but with all of the amenities of a grand hotel. At Quintessence Hotel, you’ll stay in a mansion fashioned after the original Mallihouana Hotel. The hotel lobby doubles as a museum and art gallery showing the largest collection of Haitian art outside of Haiti, owned and curated by the hotel owners. The top floor of the nine-room hotel is the exquisite Joseph penthouse suite overlooking the white sands of Long Bay. From your private terrace and the expansive windows, you’ll have the turquoise sea as your view. Turkish marble baths, Roman soaking tubs, a fully equipped kitchen, 24/7 butler service, and a grand living area are part of the setup. Over on Meads Bay, the 15-room boutique property of Tranquility Beach offers three penthouses. These three- bedroom villas each have terraces with private hot or cold tubs, full kitchens, and plenty of space to take in the ocean and beachfront views. Frangipani Beach Resort also sits along Meads Bay and offers a grand penthouse with 3,000 square feet for friends and family members to have their own space. Comforts include an indoor and outdoor shower and tub, a fully equipped chef’s kitchen, a spacious living area, and an expansive balcony overlooking the turquoise waters of Mead Bay.

View of Long Beach from the balcony of Penthouse Joseph at the Quintessence Hotel on Anguilla. Photo: Quintessence Hotel

On the Sand

Once the site for boats loading up salt from the flats behind the strip of beach, Sandy Ground today is the island’s hotspot for nightlife and beachside dining. Boats continue to drop anchor offshore but today they load and unload visitors from nearby islands and day-trippers heading out for snorkeling and fishing trips. It’s the spot to socialize, mingle and wander from bar to restaurant and now there are some new spots to explore. During the day most people head for the sugary soft sand and the views but in the evening the place with the best nightlife wins out. The latest newcomer on the strip is Sandbar, a toes- in-the-sand place offering tapas and craft cocktails. Owners Carrie and Jerry Bogar already know the ins and outs of running a restaurant; their first spot is Veya restaurant. Sandbar is the place to share plates, listen to live music, and snag front-row seats for the festivities that take place on Sandy Ground. Island local and favored chef Dale Carty has expanded his spot up on the bluff to include an outside bar and dining spot that takes in the view of Sandy Ground below. Tasty’s POV allows patrons to have that Point of View of the crescent below while enjoying grilled lobster or chicken. Another local chef, Vincia Hughes is heading up the kitchen at Vincy on the Beach which opened its doors in the summer of 2022. The menu includes barbeque chicken and ribs, a staple on the island.

Dining at Sandbar along the sands of Sandy Ground involves sharing tapas. Photo: Sandbar

Islands and Cays

Island hopping is the thing to do while on Anguilla. Scrub Island, Scilly Cay, and Sandy Island are three of the more popular isles in the collection of ten coral isles under the Anguilla umbrella. Scrub remains privately owned and is reachable by boat for days of picnics and bird watching. Birders know the isle as an important area for nesting seabirds; laughing gulls and royal terns are common sightings. Once a drop-off point for drugs back in the day, today is just the goats and lizards that patrol the innocuous sands. You can’t visit Anguilla without taking a trip to Scilly Cay, the most enjoyed and tastiest trip yet. Board the boat in Island Harbour and set off for a fabulous lunch of grilled crayfish, lobster, ribs, fish or chicken and their wickedly strong rum punch. Bring your snorkeling gear and sun protection for a beach day. You could almost swim to Sandy Island from Sandy Ground as it’s just two miles off the coast. This private isle is the most photographed with its white sandy beach surrounding a tuff of greenery with today’s restaurant in the center. The low- lying spit of sand has come and gone over the years with one hurricane washing it away and another building it back up. Order the lobster, chicken, fish, or ribs and you’ll be fully satisfied as the cuisine is as tasty as any main island high-end restaurant. The restaurant is open until hurricane season when they board up with fingers crossed that they can return in the fall. This island escape is popular with locals as well as the rich and famous who come to dine, snorkel and sunbathe.

Aerial view of Sandy Island, one of the most photographed islands off Anguilla. Photo: cdwheatley/iStock

Caribbean, Dominica, Play

Best Places for Snorkeling in Dominica

April 19, 2023

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Dominica is known as the Caribbean’s Nature Island. Lush rainforests cover 60 percent of the island, some 360 rivers cascade from emerald slopes, and its shores are ringed by colorful coral reefs. All snorkeling in Dominica takes place on the island’s western shores, which are washed in clear Caribbean waters that are sheltered from the prevailing winds and waves that strike the eastern side of the island. Here, the underwater terrain mirrors the island’s volcanic slopes, dropping from shallow shelves into the depths close to shore. As compared to islands with expansive near-shore shallows such as the Bahamas and the Turk & Caicos, Dominica’s snorkel sites are more limited in size. That said, there’s still plenty to explore, and some sites add the excitement of dramatic seascapes where reefs drop precipitously into the depths.

Many of Dominica’s best snorkeling sites lie within a trio of marine preserves. To the south, the Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve encompasses the profiles of a submerged volcanic crater. The walls of this ancient formation are now decorated with multi-hued corals and sponges, and riddled with caverns and canyons that create marine life havens. Mid Island Salisbury Marine Reserve includes three coral reefs that begin just a few fin kicks from shore. Farther to the north, reefs within Cabrits Marine Reserve run close to shore, giving snorkelers hours of exploration on slopes covered in sea fans and giant barrel sponges. Here are six of Dominica’s must-do snorkeling sites.

Champagne Reef

The island’s most famous snorkeling site is named for the gasses that well up from volcanic thermal springs under the seabed to immerse swimmers in champagne-like bubble clouds. This protected area lies within the Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, and its shallow areas are populated with a lively cast of characters that includes hawksbill turtles, octopus, rays, trumpet fish, multi-hued parrotfish, toothy eels, camouflaged frogfish, wing-finned flying gurnards and delicate seahorses. Because this site is a popular cruise ship excursion, it’s best to go when there’s no ship in port.

Gas bubbles from an undersea volcanic vent fill the waters of Champagne Reef. Photo: Discover Dominica Authority

Scott’s Head Beach

The waters of Soufriere Bay are sheltered from wind and waves by Scott’s Head Peninsula, which is an above-water extension of the area’s massive underwater volcanic crater. Snorkelers can wade into calm waters right from the beach, and there is a designated snorkeling area free of boat traffic. This site has something for everyone, as the near-shore shallows are ideal for youngsters and less-accomplished snorkelers. Venture a bit farther from shore, however, and the seafloor abruptly drops off the edge of an underwater cliff. Here on the edge of blue water, snorkelers can take in views of coral-covered cliffs, sponge gardens, and underwater pinnacles. There’s also a chance for encounters with big fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. The beach is just a short walk from the quiet waterfront villages of Scotts Head and Soufriere where snorkelers can enjoy lunch or rent equipment from one of the area’s local dive shops.

The Scott’s Head Peninsula is the visible remains of a submerged volcanic crater. This spit of land shelters snorkelers from prevailing wind and waves. Photo: Discover Dominica Authority

Solomon Reef

Sitting just to the north of the Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, Solomon Reef is a collection of huge coral-covered rock formations scattered across a sand bottom. In addition to healthy hard corals, formations are adorned in multi-colored sea fans, sponges, anemones, and crinoids. This is one of the island’s best places to find sea turtles, and all manner of both juvenile and adult reef fish gather in the shelter of the rocks. Closer looks among the crevices reveal eels and squid on the hunt. The sand seabed provides a habitat for numerous species of shrimp, crabs, and colorful sea slugs.

Hawksbill turtles are often seen cruising the shallow coral formations at Solomon Reef. Photo: Walt Stearns

Salisbury Beach

Located within its namesake mid-island marine reserve, this site is a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the effort to find. This tranquil palm-lined beach is low on crowds while having the needed amenities for a day in the water, including a nearby dive center and a funky beach bar for post-snorkel libations. There are three good snorkeling reefs in this area, two of which are best visited by boat, and a third that’s close to shore and easy to reach.

The waters of the Salisbury Marine Reserve are a good place to look for one of Dominica’s most unusual fish, the flying gurnard. Photo: Walt Stearns

Secret Bay

Despite the name, this site isn’t a well-kept secret, though it will take a bit of doing to get to this less- visited snorkel site. Steep coastal bluffs and dense vegetation hinder shore access to this coral reef, leaving boat trips as the best option for most snorkelers. Access is much easier for guests of Secret Bay Resort, which is an eco-luxe property perched atop the bluffs. Guests are provided with complimentary snorkel gear and kayaks and can also join guided snorkel tours — including night snorkeling adventures. In addition to snorkeling the reefs, Secret Bay has sea caves and an Instagram-worthy setting that was featured in the original Pirates of The Caribbean film.

The bluffs above Secret Bay provide a dramatic backdrop for snorkelers and swimmers. This isolated beach is often visited by kayak. Photo: Secret Bay

Douglas Bay

Just north of Cabrits National Park, the waters of Douglas Bay are a favorite with snorkelers staying in the Portsmouth area. The best coral formations start a couple of hundred feet from shore, which won’t phase accomplished swimmers as they ply the typically calm waters. More casual snorkelers can opt for a boat trip from one of the nearby tour operators. The reefs in this area are made up of large boulders now heavily encrusted in corals. Searching the cracks and crevices of this big rock pile yields a wealth of unique marine life finds.

At Douglas Bay, huge boulders covered in corals become home to an intriguing assortment of marine life. Photo: Discover Dominica Authority

Anguilla, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Grenada, Hawaii, Islands, Kauai, Plan, Trip Ideas

Where To Go In May 2023

April 11, 2023

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Springtime brings longer days, milder weather, and far fewer tourists than the summer months. While the kids are still busy with school and the flowers are in bloom make May the month you sneak away for that much-deserved trip. Here are seven spots around the globe to celebrate the colors of spring.

Croatia

Once you’ve seen Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and visited some of the historic cities along the gorgeous Dalmatian Coast you’ll want more. Take the next chapter of touring from the sea on a cruise of the Croatian Islands. You’ll hop from port to port visiting charming villages, fishing ports, and hilltop strongholds. Wine tastings on the island of Hvar, the Blue Cave off Korcula, and the medieval town designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island of Trogir are on most itineraries. There are a least fifty ways to see these islands from sailing yachts to small ships with a dozen cabins that depart from Split or Dubrovnik.

Off the beaten path this secret turquoise beach is on the island of Brac, in the Dalmatian Islands of Croatia. Photo: xbrchx/Shutterstock

Crete

This mountainous isle, the largest Greek island is a botanist’s heaven with over 2,000 species of plants on the island, some endemic and are only found on the island, while others including olive trees and grape vines grow throughout the region. Cooking tours are busy with visitors hosting them on excursions and outdoor classrooms to check out olive groves, olive mills, and pressings. Wild herbs like chamomile, marjoram, thyme, oregano, and fennel grow on the rugged mountainous landscapes and are collected by cooks and chefs used in flavoring soups and stews. When spring is in full force the hillsides, slopes, and roadsides are carpeted in yellow, red, and purple blooms. Tiny wild tulips are early bloomers and are best seen on the hillside that spills over the village of Slili. Miniature purple orchids pop out among the yellow-colored flowers of chamomile. Small red poppies, full-petaled peonies, and delicate anemones make a multi-colored tapestry that rests over the landscape.

Spring on Crete is covered in wild poppies surrounding olive trees that grow throughout the hillsides. Photo: olgalngs/iStock

Anguilla

An island known for its 33 white sand beaches is also a culinary leader in the region. There are 70 restaurants many with a French flare combining Continental seasonings and techniques with local seafood; you’ll have grilled lobster with Herbs de Provence. Local barbeque is big and Caribbean cuisine including pigeon peas and rice, shredded salt cod and jerk chicken is prevalent but when visiting chefs come to the island, there is no limit. The Anguilla Culinary Experience runs for four days in early May and brings together local talented chefs with award- winning pros from the states and Europe. The event kicks off with a party and tasting at Aurora Anguilla Resort & Spa; guests will try dishes from each of the six restaurants. Resident and guest chefs will host dinners at set restaurants and days and evenings will include cooking demonstrations and rum tastings. Private dinners, beach barbeques, and gourmet island tours are all part of the festivities. The event runs from May 3 to 6, 2023. Order your tickets at: https://anguillaculinaryexperience.com/

Plated crayfish will most certainly be on the menu during the Anguilla Culinary Experience in May. Photo: Natalie Volchek- Alvarez/ACE

Santorini

Without a doubt, Santorini is the most famous of the Cyclades Islands, and visiting in the off-season is preferred. When July and August roll around the tourists flock in. In May, the weather is warm, sunny, and dry and you’ll be able to see one of those fabulous sunsets without rubbing shoulders. Explore as many villages as time allows. Fira, the largest town is good for shopping and nightlife and has a bus connection to get to other villages. Oia is the town most visitors head to when they get off the ships, its stone pedestrian paths wind up and around the hills connecting restaurants, inns, and shops and offering breathtaking views below of the cobalt-blue Mediterranean Sea.

One of the main streets in Oia, Santorini is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. Photo: Mo Wu/Shutterstock

Grenada

Chocolate lovers will want to mark their calendars for this culinary event. The island is once known for its nutmeg, the pod that’s pictured on the National flag, and is now becoming the chocolate capital of the Caribbean. An island where agriculture was king, the volcanic soil is spectacularly fertile and today the central agricultural regions of the island are not only growing the iconic nutmeg and cinnamon but among mangoes, vanilla, and bananas grows the prized cacao. In the past, cacao was mostly exported but farmers today are holding onto the precious pods. Today there are five tree-to-bar companies, and they all play a role in the Grenada Chocolate Festival, a celebration of all things chocolate. You’ll find tastings, pairings, dinners, hands-on experiences, and plantation excursions. Meet the growers, participate in the raking and walking of the cacao, and learn the art of making bars. The event takes place May 16-21, 2023. Sign up at: https://www.grenadachocolatefest.com/

Special dinners from the 2022 Grenada Chocolate Festival included several chocolate desserts and rum tastings. Photo: Grenada Chocolate Festival

Kauai

The rainy season is over, and the weather is considered ideal in May, although humidity plays a role in a lush environment during the day evenings cool down and best of all, the summer visitors haven’t arrived yet. For hikers, the island is a nonstop adventure as 90 percent of the island is unpaved and accessible via hikes and bikes. A hike will take you just about anywhere there is a semblance of a trail and there are easy strolls along the coast to tougher hikes up 3,000-foot-high ridges offering breathtaking views. The Waimea Canyon on the west side takes in several hikes of various levels through the state park. Trails to Koke’e State Park carpeted in green forests meander through 4,345 acres reaching a plateau 3,200 to 4,200 feet above sea level. The views are amazing and the forest is home to some of Hawaii’s endemic birds. Most will want to hike the hanging valley of the Napali Coast, it’s not for the beginner but the views are worth it for those conditioned for a challenging and strenuous hike. This hike along the Kalalau Trail is 11 miles one way and follows the path of the ancient Hawaiians.

Hawaii’s most popular and scenic hike is on Kauai; the 11-mile Kalalau trail overlooks the Napali Coast. Photo: Sam Camp/iStock

Malta

Spring months are best for a visit to the island of Malta when the nights are still cool, and the majority of tourists haven’t arrived yet. Summer months can get intense with heat and overrun with visitors, many of who fancy the Instagrammable beach clubs. May is considered the sweet spot. History buffs will marvel at the architecture and since the island has been occupied first by the Phoenicians, then the Romans and so on there’s influence from Spain, Sicily, France, and England. The island became independent in 1964. However, the collision of cultures and unique buildings remains. Visit Malta’s Silent city of Mdina, once the capital, which dates to the Phoenicians 4,000 years ago. It’s a walking city with no cars except for residents who number under 300. Walk the narrow streets where churches have become museums and galleries and many of the palaces are now private homes.

Popular with tourists for the views and the fishing boats, Marsaxlokk fishing village showcases the colors of Malta. Photo: eli asenova/iStock

Caribbean, Deals, Plan, St. Lucia

2023 Spring Deals in St. Lucia

April 5, 2023

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If you want a true Caribbean experience saturated in St. Lucian charm and natural beauty these five hotels will deliver just that. Amazing views of the Pitons, the sea below, the mountains, and the natural reserve as a backdrop are what they are all about. Unique and distinctive decor, traditional and international cuisine, and impeccable service- it couldn’t get any better than this. Here are five to choose from, one better than the next.

Anse Chastanet

For more than 25 years, Anse Chastanet has reigned as one of the most noted and award-winning eco-luxury resorts in the Caribbean. This expansive coastal estate is located next to the World Heritage site, with two palm-lined beaches fronting the waters of a marine reserve. Waterfront and hillside rooms feature open floor plans, with large louvered windows and flower-draped terraces that usher in trade winds and coastal views. On-site amenities include three restaurants and two bars, two beachside boutiques and an art gallery, the Kai Belte Spa, a full-service water sports center, and Scuba St. Lucia. Take advantage of a sixth night free along with a $150 per person food and beverage credit and book your 2023 dates. For info: https://ansechastanet.com/

The tropical retreat of Anse Chastanet is one of the Caribbean’s most colorful and unique resorts. Photo: Anse Chastanet

Jade Mountain

A sister property to Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain takes full advantage of its lofty setting and panoramic views. Perched high above the Caribbean, hillside accommodations remove the fourth wall to open sleeping and living spaces that showcase the Caribbean far below. Private infinity pools perched on the outer edge of elevated terraces seem to hang in mid-air. Along with outstanding spatial features, each sanctuary comes with private butler service, catering to guests every need. Out of the sanctuary and into the wild, the resort offers ample amenities and excursions for loungers and adventurers alike. This spring, take advantage of the fifth night free if you book a Sky Whirlpool Suite or Star or Moon Infinity Pool Sanctuary. For more information: https://jademountain.com/

Tucked away within the luscious greenery of St. Lucia the Jade Mountain Resort has a backdrop of the endlessly blue Caribbean Sea. Photo: Jade Mountain

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

The setting couldn’t be better, nestled between the Pitons and the white sands of Sugar Beach the resort is spread out on a 100-acre parcel that was once a working plantation. The 79 rooms sprinkled throughout the hillside are decorated with a classic and minimal approach bathed in white linens. At the private beach, guests can join in sailing, kayaking, and scuba diving. A wooden treehouse spa specializes in chocolate or coffee scrubs and other Caribbean-inspired treatments. Three bars, dining at the Great House or down by the sea, and afternoon tea at the Palm Court Lounge are there when hunger strikes. Take advantage of the Caribbean Escape and save up to 25% on cottages, villas, bungalows, and guestrooms. The minimum stay is 3 nights. Valid for stays through December 18, 2023. Visit: https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugar- beach

The Hillside villas at Sugar Beach come with private infinity pools and offer that pristine vantage point of sea and mountain. Photo: Sugar Beach

Ladera Resort

If you read what guests have to say about the experience of waking up to the sound of birds, the views of the sea and the Pitons, and the privacy, you’ll want to make your reservation as fast as possible. Set on the UNESCO World Heritage site on a ridgeline 1,000 feet above the sea the grounds provide stunning views from the 37 rooms and suites. You’ll find spaces created from local tropical hardwoods, stone, and tile. Each suite comes with a private plunge pool and one wall open to views of the Pitons. This adults-only resort is the ideal romantic escape in paradise. Book in the Romance & Wellness and linger for six nights or longer and receive up to 30% off. Or book the 4th-night free package that includes a $200 resort credit. Both offers run through December 19, 2023 https://www.ladera.com/

The open wall concept at Ladera Resort replaces the fourth wall with unobstructed views of the Pitons; it’s also ideal for nightly stargazing. Photo: Ladera Resort

Rabot Hotel

Set 1,000 feet above the sea Rabot Hotel from Hotel Chocolat, the luxury British chocolate firm offers a unique eco-minded option. Home to St. Lucia’s oldest working cacao farm in the middle of the lush rainforest, guests can take a Tree to Bar tour during their stay. With just 25 private lodges, some with private balconies or terraces there is plenty of space and quiet for a retreat from the outside world. The open-air restaurant and infinity pool all have gorgeous views of the Pitons, and the grounds have a network of estate trails to explore. Time is running out for the April package. Book the April Escape which includes breakfast and offers 40% off during the entire month of April. To book: https://www.hotelchocolat.com/uk/rabothotel.html

Lodges at Rabot Hotel are set around lush courtyards and have open-sky rainforest showers and louvered wooden doors with views of the Pitons. Photo: Rabot Hotel

Bahamas-Out Islands, Caribbean, Deals, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Plan, Puerto Rico, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

Caribbean Hotels Offer Spring 2023 Deals

April 4, 2023

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The spring breakers have returned home, and the summer rush is months away, now is the time to indulge in a quick getaway or a long lingering vacation. These Caribbean resorts are sure to provide you with a fix of stunning beaches, warm sunshine, and deep blue sea. By the way, they are offering extra perks.

Resorts World Bimini, Bahamas

Bimini, the closest Bahamian island to the U.S. is home to an incredible oceanfront complex with a spa, casino, marina, and a new private white sand beach. Resorts World Bimini offers guests two hotel pools: the ground- floor lagoon pool or the adults-only rooftop infinity pool, both with poolside bars serving cocktails and local bites. Bimini Beach is a 4.5-acre private beach and lounge with beachfront cabanas, two pools, shaded hammocks along with daily live entertainment. This spring the resort is offering two deals starting at $449 including roundtrip transportation and a two- or three-night stay. Limited days apply; offer valid until April 16, 2023. To book: https://rwbimini.com/event/spring-break/

The beach club at Resorts World Bimini offers 360- degree views of Bimini’s white sand and turquoise sea. Pools, food, and drinks are close by. Photo: Resorts World Bimini

Caribe Hilton, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Ideally situated between Condado and Old San Juan, you’re never out of range for restaurants, shops, and nighttime activities in San Juan. An easy getaway from most U.S. cities, Puerto Rico is perfect for a long weekend escape and a stay at the iconic Caribe Hilton fits the bill. The hotel sits on a slice of sand that is private and secluded where oceanfront pools are set up for basking in the sun. Head for the shade to one of the seaside hammocks or the spa for head-to-toe treatments. Dining options serve everything from local to international cuisine. This spring, travelers who book the ‘Make My Stay’ package at Caribe will receive a $150 resort credit. Book at: www.caribehilton.com/offers/

The Caribe Hilton sits on a peninsular with a quiet cove; the pools have direct views of the ocean. Photo: Caribe Hilton

Sailrock, South Caicos, Turks & Caicos

Finding natural beauty and an escape from the outside world is easy when you book into Sailrock, on the island of South Caicos in the Turks & Caicos. The island is remote, small enough to explore with just 8.2 miles of low hills. Explore the pristine beaches and salt flats or just lull off to sleep on your seaside patio or float in your private pool. Soak in the island life and save up to 30% this spring. Book a suite or villa, and receive a $40 breakfast credit per person per day and a $300 resort credit for staying 5 nights. The package has a minimum of 4 nights and is valid for travel until January 1, 2025. Plan now to save in the next couple of years. For more info: https://sailrocksouthcaicos.com/resort/

Sailrock’s Pool

Casa de Campo, Dominica Republic

This resort, in operation for 50 years, is more like a small town covering 7,000 acres of beaches, golf courses, and residential areas. The first luxury resort to open its doors on the island back in 1974, today offers 247 guest rooms and 50 private villas. Here you’ll enjoy a variety of sports from horseback riding, archery, tennis, fishing, snorkeling, sailing, and of course, golf. There are three golf courses designed to challenge the beginner to expert that fringing the ocean and winding through the grounds. Dining includes Mexican, Italian, Spanish, and French along with plenty of local seafood. Book your group in one of the villas and save 50% on selected dates plus a $250,00 resort credit. Offer good for travel through December 20, 2023. For info: https://www.casadecampo.com.do/

Casa de Campo offers a selection of villas that include three to ten bedrooms with garden and ocean views. Photo: Casa de Campo

Jamaica Inn, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

This small, secluded spot along the coast of Ocho Rios is ideal for a getaway from the boisterous crowds you might find on the island. The spot opened back in the 1950s and has been hosting movie stars and discerning guests to its British Colonial-style inn with personalized attention layered in timeless charm. All 55 rooms come with sea views, no phones, or TV for distractions, just the sound of the tropics. Have a relaxing dinner on the terrace restaurant with water views or indulge in a spa treatment where water views add to the level of relaxation. This is the ideal spot to disconnect. Book the Spring Fling valid until April 30, 2023. The savings is 15% off daily rates and a three-night minimum stay is required. To book: https://jamaicainn.com/

Suites at Jamaica Inn have direct sea views with easy access to one of the finest beaches on the island. Photo: Jamaica Inn

Condado Vanderbilt, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Glamorous and stunning with its pink marble lobby and wrought iron spiral staircase and a storied past, the oldest luxury property on the island has been restored to its original grandeur of 1919. Today’s guests are treated like celebrities as the hotel delivers exquisite luxury where the service shines. Guests have 4 pools and a spa, known is as the best on the island. Dining features the works of Chef Juan José Cueva is admired by San Juan’s foodies. Seaside dining serving Puerto Rican cuisine and tacos round out the offerings. The Sweet Suite Spring deal offers 10% off on suite accommodations and a $75.00 resort credit and includes a breakfast buffet for two. Book through May 30, 2023, for travel from April 1 to June 30, 2023. For more information: https://www.condadovanderbilt.com/

An ideal spot for a romantic dinner is Ola at Condado Vanderbilt where a quiet nook overlooks the sea. Photo: Condado Vanderbilt

Barbados, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, Florida, Hawaii, Islands, Maldives, Maui, Mexico, Plan

Best Places to Travel in March 2023

February 14, 2023

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March is one of those months that can fly below the vacation radar. It’s just past the end of winter getaways, and a bit before the mad crush of spring break. This means travelers who time it right can enjoy an ideal combination of mild weather, fewer crowds, and great shoulder-season rates. Here are seven good choices for a March getaway.

Panama

Just a few miles from downtown Panama City, Somberania National Park is an oasis of rainforest greenery. And March is a great time to visit because – well, it isn’t raining all the time. Visiting the park during the dry season means plenty of sunshine and mud-free hiking trails. Paths lead through impressive stands of cotton, mahogany, and guayacan trees, crossing streams and swaying bridges on the way to waterfalls and swimming holes on the Chagres River. The 55,000-acre park is a favorite destination for bird watchers, who have tallied 400-plus species including exotic finds like toucans, trogons, flycatchers, and tanagers, along with rare birds such as the red-bellied woodpecker, yellow-eared toucanet and ground cuckoo.

Sunrise over the Chagres River in the Soberanía National Park of Gamboa, a 55,000-acre protected tropical ecosystem in Panama. Photo: Bkamprath/iStock

Mexico

March breezes usher in one of Mexico’s premier sailing events in the blue waters of Puerto Vallarta. 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of the Banderas Bay Regatta. This international nautical get- together draws an eclectic mix of serious sailors and casual competitors to compete in a week-long series of around-the-buoy races and shoreside celebrations. Headquarters for the event is the Vallarta Yacht Club, but don’t expect blue-blazers and bloody marys, because the club has a more laid-back flip-flop and Corona vibe. After watching the races, head to the quiet fishing village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle for some old-school Mexican hospitality.

Racing unfolds during the 2022 Banderas Bay Regatta, an annual event attracting sailors from Mexico and North America. Photo: John Pounder/JL Digital Media.net

Maui

Each year thousands of humpback whales from all corners of the Pacific gather in the warm, shallow waters off the coast of Maui to mate, give birth, and raise their young. The action takes place in calm water not far from shore, making it one of the most relaxing places in the world for whale watching. And in addition to on-the- water viewing sessions, anyone who’s really into whales should mark their calendars for the Lahaina Whale and Ocean Arts Festival. Held on the first week of March at Lahaina’s Campbell Park, this event combines ocean-themed art exhibits with food, games, live music, and family activities.

A humpback whale fluke during a sunset whale watching in Lahaina on Maui. Here, the whale-watching season runs from March to November. Photo: Manuel Balesteri/Shutterstock

Maldives

There’s really not a bad time to visit the stunning islands of the Maldives, but March gives you a chance to slip in after the end of the winter rush while still enjoying some balmy weather and plenty of sunshine. This is also a favorite date for divers and snorkelers, as waters are particularly clear at this time of the year. March also marks the beginning of the surfing season. There are beginner- friendly waves ideal for anyone who has ever thought about taking up the sport, and some legendary breaks to challenge experts. With more than 100 islands offering stunning beach resorts, there are options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Aerial view of a seaplane approaching an island resort in the Maldives where over-the water-bungalows are ubiquitous. Photo: Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

Florida

Florida’s theme parks and beaches can get crowded once spring breakers arrive, but there are still plenty of quiet places to enjoy in the Sunshine State. For a truly wild adventure, head to the Everglades National Park and sign up for an airboat tour into the heart of America’s largest wetlands. These specially-designed flat- bottomed boats glide through sawgrass meadows and shallow waters that aren’t accessible to other types of boats. For added enjoyment, combine a boat trip with a visit to the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation for a cultural immersion into the history and traditions of the Seminole tribe.

Blue skies are reflected in the still waters of the Florida Everglades as tourists take airboat rides to visit alligators and other wildlife. Photo: allouphoto/Shutterstock

Dominica Republic

Each year, as many as 2,000 humpback whales visit the Dominica Republic’s Samana Bay, and March is an ideal time for a whale- watching trip that has the added bonus of visits by resident pods of dolphins. Plan your trip early in the month and you can also take in the National Carnival Parade. This event is the culmination of weeks of regional carnival competitions, all leading to the big finale when the best carnival troupes from across the country converge on the Santo Domingo Malecón for a weekend of pageantry, dances, and parades. And if you miss that party, there’s still time after your whaling trip for a road trip to the Cabarete district to watch the action at the World Surf League and get in on the final carnival of the season.

The Bay of Samana is ideal for watching humpback whales as they come to mate, give birth, and nurse their young in these warmer waters. Photo: Judith Lienert/Shutterstock

Barbados

It’s fitting that the island that has been called “a little piece of England” delivers echos of The Royal Ascot with the staging of the Caribbean’s most prestigious horse racing event. The Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup is a highlight of the island’s sporting and social calendar. The race draws an international field of jockeys and thoroughbred trainers. The Gold Cup is the culmination of a tradition dating back to 1845 when officers of the British Regiment stationed in Barbados staged impromptu horse races on the parade grounds of the Garrison Savannah. Today, it is much more than a race, as it has become the centerpiece for a weekend of social events and celebrations.

Any escape to Barbados involves some beach time. With more than 80 white strands on the island, there is plenty to explore. Photo: Barbados Tourism Marketing

Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Islands, Maldives, Oceania, Plan, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

Islands From Above

February 7, 2023

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Tropical islands present an endless range of photographic opportunities. But one perspective that is rarely shown is the view from directly overhead. A look down at these favorite places reveals a new dimension to the destination and showcases the incredible clarity of the water. It’s a phenomenon these talented photographers have discovered and shared.

A Royal Legacy

Pierre Lesage flew a drone over blue Pacific waters to capture this panoramic image of The Brando Resort, which sits on the private French Polynesian island of Tetiaroa. As director of sales and marketing for the resort, Pierre had a unique opportunity to document this iconic property, which is set in a sparkling lagoon some 30 miles northeast of the island of Tahiti. Tetiaroa, which was once the playground of the royal family of Tahiti, was bought by Marlon Brando in 1965 when he was filming the Mutiny on the Bounty. His goal when purchasing the island was to preserve it for future generations.

Aerial coastline of Tetiaroa. Photo: The Brando/Tim McKenna @timmckenna

Down Under From Above

Photographer Will Turner waited until sunset to launch his drone above the rocky shoreline of the Shelly Beach headlands, which sit at the edge of Australia’s Sydney Harbour National Park. “The water was crystal clear and the trees were red as fire,” he writes, “making this awesome composition.” The sheltered waters of Shelly Beach are popular with swimmers and snorkelers, while surfers favor nearby Manly Beach, which was the site of the first World Surfing Championship in 1965. A favorite day trip to Manly from downtown Sydney begins with a half-hour ferry ride that takes in famous sites such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Bird’s-eye view of rocks at Shelly Beach, Manly, Australia Photo: Will Turner/ Unsplash @turner_imagery

Worth The Effort

When prepping for a trip to the Islands of Fiji, Jay Daley wasn’t sure he wanted to go through the hassle of packing his favorite photo drone. “I was jetting off to the little tropical island to relax,” he says. “Lugging a large drone through checked luggage, and customs, and getting it to and from the resort didn’t seem like a relaxing idea.” But in the end, the drone came along, and Jay was glad it did. “There was a huge coral reef right at my doorstep and kayaks ready to go.” The drone flew, and the result was this evocative image of a snorkeler dwarfed by huge coral formations.

Coral reef from the Islands of Fiji. Photo: Jay Daley/Flickr

A Liquid Gem Set In Stone

Falassarna Beach is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline on the Greek Island of Crete, and it’s been the subject of countless photo shoots over the years. So when Athens-based multi-media producer Filippos Sdralias set out to create some aerial images of the coast, he wanted to show a different facet of Falassarna. Instead of focusing the lens on the warm sands of the beach, he flew his drone above a rock-strewn area at the edge of the strand to document the enticing turquoise waters of this shallow, boulder-lined pool.

Rocks of Falassarna, Greece. Photo: Filippos Sdralias/ Unsplash @filippos_sdr

Flight To A Distant Haven

This bird’s eye view of the coral reefs surrounding Laysan Island comes from U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander (ret.) Kevin Cooper. This remote outpost is located in the Northwest Hawaiian Islands, some 900 miles from Honolulu. The photo was taken during an overflight of the island in 2016. It shows the reefs to be in good health, but this wasn’t always the case. Laysan was historically exploited by guano miners and overrun by invasive species. Decades of reclamation efforts by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have since restored most of the island’s natural order, and it is now protected under the Hawaiian Natural Life Act.

Laysan Island overflight, Northwest Hawaiian Islands. Photo: Kevin Cooper/Flickr

Phuket In Mid-Day Light

The crystal-clear waters of Thailand’s most famous island, Phuket, draw visitors from around the world. It’s easy to see the allure in this overhead view by Giuliano Di Paolo, who focused on the rocky shoreline near the island’s southern point at Promthep Cape. The cape is one of the most photographed locations in Phuket, but most shooters wait until sunset to visit. By shooting in mid-day sunlight Di Paolo brought out the full vibrance of the water. He is a Milan-based media creator who is fascinated with Thailand and often turns his lens to subjects such as elephants, temples, and local people.

Phuket, Thailand. Photo: Giuliano Di Paolo/Unsplash @giulianodipaolo

Sailing A Coral Coast

The Maldives is a nation of 1,200 small islands set in 3,500 square miles of coral reef. To capture the impressive scale of these formations, Hassan Ishan took a high-altitude look at a traditional dhoni sailing vessel making its way along the edge of a massive ridge of coral that’s visible in the clear water. Dhonis are the workhorses of Maldivian maritime commerce, serving as everything from fishing boats to cargo vessels and inter-island ferries. Ishan is a self-taught Maldivian photo pro known for creating surreal images that capture the unique beauty of his homeland. His work has inspired many younger photography enthusiasts to get into the field.

Sailing boat in the Maldives. Photo: Ishan/Unsplash @seefromthesky

Lighting The Way

Mariners in the Turks &Caicos have learned to navigate the extensive network of channels and shoals that surround these islands based on water color. Sapphire and aquamarine waters signal “go ahead,” while light green or tan warns of shallow depths that could spell trouble. Filmmaker Romello Williams perfectly captures this phenomenon with an overhead shot of a speedboat transiting a tidal creek set between a sandbank and a seagrass meadow. A native of Grand Bahamas now living in the Turks & Caicos, Williams says his work is heavily influenced by his island upbringing.

Turks & Caicos Islands. Photo: Romello Williams/ Unsplash @romello

Bahamas, Bahamas-Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas-Out Islands, Caribbean, Play, Trip Ideas

Unique Bahamas Snorkel Adventures

February 7, 2023

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Snorkeling is one of the world’s most popular water sports. Hit the shore at most any tropical destination in the world, and you can don mask and snorkel for a fish watching session. The Bahamas certainly has its share of pretty coral reefs and fishy shallows, but these islands also offer a number of unique in-water adventures. Here are six of our favorites.

Ocean Atlas

The Island of New Providence is home to the world’s largest underwater sculpture. Known as Ocean Atlas, this 15-foot high, 65- ton work of art was created by pioneering aquatic sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. It depicts a young girl kneeling as she supports the weight of the ocean. The statue, which is made from eco-friendly concrete, is designed to attract fish and create a new home for marine life. Ocean Atlas is the centerpiece attraction for the Sir Nicholas Nuttall Coral Reef Sculpture Garden, which also includes submerged sculptures created by local artists Willicey Tynes and Andret John. The park is a favorite with both scuba divers and snorkelers, as shallow depths, clear waters, and white-sand bottom provide ample light for easy viewing.

Ocean Atlas sits in 18 feet of water off the island’s western shore. It’s possible to reach this site from shore but most snorkelers opt for a guided boat tour. Photo: Bahamas Tourism

The Sapona Shipwreck

It’s not often that snorkelers can visit an actual shipwreck. But there’s no need for scuba gear to explore the remains of the SS Sapona. This cargo steamer ran aground on a sand bar just south of the island of Bimini in 1926, and has been a local landmark ever since. The ship lies in 20 feet of water, and rises another 30 feet above the surface. There are a number of breaches in the hull, and snorkelers can fin their way into the cargo holds, which have become a haven for tropical fish and lobsters. The sand banks surrounding the wreck are also worth checking out, as stingrays and eagle rays often glide past.

A snorkeler descends into the hold of the SS Sapona. This is one of the few shipwrecks in the world that lies within snorkel depths. It is easily reached from the island of Bimini. Photo: Atmoji Photography/Flickr

Current Cut

On the northwest corner of the island of Eleuthera, tidal currents are funneled through a narrow channel. This creates free rides for divers and snorkelers who are swept along with the moving water. Snorkeling Current Cut requires a support boat to drop participants at the start of the drift, and pick them up at the other end of the channel. Drifts begin outside the cut, where currents are mild. As the channel narrows, speeds pick up, and snorkelers are soon gliding along at a brisk pace as they are funneled between the rock walls of the 30-foot deep cut. The sensation is akin to flight, and to add to the excitement, the cut is often filled with schooling fish and a number of resident reef sharks. Don’t worry, they aren’t interested in humans.

An aerial view of Current Cut. With each tide change, waters flow through this narrow channel at speeds of up to 4 miles an hour, creating an opportunity for exciting snorkel drifts. Photo: Randy Roe/Flickr

Thunderball Grotto

Fans of the classic film Thunderball will recognize this semi-submerged underwater cave where James Bond was briefly trapped. Reliving the adventure begins with a trip to Staniel Cay in the Exuma Islands. The best time for snorkelers to explore this maze of interconnected caverns is at low tide, when several entrances are revealed, and there’s no need to make a breath-hold dive to access the interior air chambers. Inside, the ceiling drops to within a few feet of the water in some areas, and soars to more that 20 feet overhead in others. Natural openings send shafts of sunlight into the water, and there is always an abundance of tropical fish swirling about.

The semi-submerged chambers of Thunderball Grotto can be reached through one of several openings. Some like this one pictured require snorkelers to duck below the surface to enter. Photo: Ryan Crutchfield/Flickr

White Sand Ridge

Dolphin encounters don’t have to take place at amusement parks. North of the island of Grand Bahamas, a large sand bank known as White Sand Ridge is home to pods of spotted dolphins that roam free, but aren’t shy about meeting up with visiting humans. Encounters begin with a boat ride of 30 to 40 miles for land-based snorkelers, or just jump overboard from one of the live aboard charter boats that make overnight and multiple-day trips to the site. When dolphins are located, snorkelers enter the water, and are usually met by the more curious and playful members of the pod. These intelligent marine mammals seem to enjoy the interaction, and may involve snorkelers in favorite games such as tag or keep-away, which involves passing a clump of seaweed back and forth, enticing their human visitors to try and take it away. Waters on the sand banks are typically 10 to 20 feet deep, and very clear, which makes for excellent photo ops.

At White Sand Ridge, spotted dolphins interact with humans. These are wild animals who make contact of their own free will, which makes the experience all the more special. Photo: Atmoji Photography/Flickr

Blue Holes

The islands of the Bahamas sit on a limestone substrate riddled with crevices and flooded caverns. When the ceilings of an underwater chamber collapses, a blue hole is formed. The island best known for these blue holes is Andros. A flight over this large and mostly unsettled landscape reveals dozens of circular ponds hidden by the surrounding jungle. Cave divers have explored some of these holes to great depths, and have mapped mile-long passageways. Such adventures are best left to the professionals, but with just mask, snorkel and a decent pair of walking shoes, anyone can follow pathways through the forests of Andros to the waters of an interior blue hole. Fish life isn’t the attraction at these sites, but the unique geology of these flooded sinkholes makes for a memorable experience. A number of the small guesthouses on the island offer guided trips, and can provide directions to the holes.

Andros is known for its blue holes. The island has 178 inland and 50 in the sea. which lead to intricate cave systems that run under the island and along the sea floor. Photo: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

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