Tag Archives: Dominica

Caerula Mar Club Bahamas
Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas-Out Islands, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Dominica, St. Eustatius, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Turks & Caicos

The Caribbean’s Latest Hot Spot Hotels

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While the travel landscape might have been turned upside down in the past couple of years, the hotel industry in the Caribbean has been resilient, to say the least. The tourism sector of these nations has been maintaining a pace as if the world had not been interrupted. These recent additions to the Caribbean inventory showcase sustainable practices while offering plenty of style and luxuries.

Caerula Mar Club, South Andros Island, Bahamas

On an island where very little has changed the opening of Caerula Mar was a big deal on the island and in the HGTV world. The largest island of the Bahamas, Andros has always been a low-key off-the-radar place – a quiet retreat for visitors who come to fish, bird watch, and dive blue holes. The island is pretty much left in its natural state and that was a consideration when Brian and Sarah Baeumler purchased the abandoned property in 2017 to renovate into an ultra-luxe boutique property, the star of the HGTV show, Renovation Island. Incorporating ethical and sustainable practices this low-density resort sits on 10 acres with a gorgeous beachfront where all of the cottages are just steps from the sea. With just five private villas and 18 suites, guests find themselves immersed in nature, and the sea, and pretty much secluded from the outside world. It’s barefoot luxury at its best. When it comes to amenities, there are three restaurants to choose from, a spa, a fitness center, and a selection of on-the-water activities and bikes for exploring the backroads of this pristine island. To find out more: https://www.caerulamar.com/

South Andros Bahamas Caerula Mar Club Resort

Caerula Mar in The Bahamas features sustainable and natural materials in the suites mirroring the outdoor living spaces. Photo: Caerula Mar

Hammock Cove Resort & Spa, Antigua

Set near the dramatic limestone formations of Devil’s Bridge, Hammock Cove overlooks a tranquil and protected area of the bay on the northeastern edge of Antigua. Each of the 42 villas is single-story, king-bedded and comes with large outdoor living spaces that include plunge pools, sun loungers, and a cocktail area with a fully stocked wine cooler and of course, a view. This new luxurious boutique ticks all the boxes and more. In addition to indoor and outdoor spaces, this adults-only 5-star resort comes with an all-inclusive plan better known as uninterrupted luxury. Taking the concept to a level above with Micheline-star dining from breakfast to dinner including traditional English afternoon tea with an Antiguan twist, personalized service as each villa has its guest ambassador, yoga and fitness classes, paddle boarding, or snorkeling. If downtime is on the agenda drift off on the floating relaxation mats. A big hit with couples, this star opened at the end of 2019 and is a member of the Elite Islands Resorts group which includes four other resorts in Antigua. For more info: https://www.hammockcoveantigua.com/

Antigua Hammock Cove

Each villa at Hammock Cove has uninterrupted views of the turquoise water. Here guests enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and paddle boarding in the calm bay. Photo: Hammock Cove

Rock House, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

Capturing inspiration from Capri and Nice where villas are set within seaside cliffs, Rock House takes guests on a journey to the Mediterranean. With conscious efforts to preserve the existing natural landscape along the rugged limestone coast north of Grace Bay, the 46 oceanfront villas with an aura of the Amalfi Coast have come to the Caribbean. Constructed by local artisans, limestone feature walls wrap around the one and two-bedroom standalone villas that feature outdoor terraces, shower garden bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows to seamlessly blend indoors and outdoors, where the turquoise sea is a constant vista. A handful of villas overlook the 100-foot infinity pool which is surrounded by day beds and umbrellas, beyond is a white sand beach and a jetty that reaches out 130 feet into the Atlantic. Oceanfront dining showcasing Adriatic cuisine and two bar options fuel guests for kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming. For more information: https://rockhouse.gracebayresorts.com/

Rock House Turks & Caicos

Rock House, a member of Grace Bay Resorts is the first cliffside residential resort to open along the north shore of Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos. Photo: Rock House

Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski, Dominica

Surrounded by Cabrits National Park, a 1,313-acre region set up to protect tropical forests, reefs, and wetlands on the north end of a peninsula near Portsmouth, this property made its debut in the Fall of 2019. It’s the first new build from the iconic European hotelier to come to the Americas. And it’s the first grand property, with 151 guestrooms, in Dominica, an island that has remained sheltered from mass tourism. The five-star hotel brings all the amenities one might expect. Luxuriously appointed rooms with mountain and ocean views done in coastal colors with wood accents merge indoor and outdoor ambiance. The juxtaposition of nature and luxury is the intended experience. Guests might hike in the forest all day and return to a freestanding soaking tub filled with aromatic bubbles. An 18,000 -square-foot spa continues the connection to nature with treatments inspired by local culture and the surroundings offered in treehouse cabanas. Dining concepts bring in local fare with Creole dishes as well as farm-to- table and sea-to-table offerings. A small black sand beach dotted with six cabanas, four pools, a fitness center, and water sports keep families entertained. For more details: https://www.kempinski.com/en/cabrits-resort-kempinski- dominica

Dominica Kempinski

Luxury meets nature in Dominica, where Cabrits Resort & Spa was constructed to harmonize with the natural setting of mountains and ocean at Douglas Bay. Photo: Cabrits Resort

Saba Rock, British Virgin Islands

The rebirth of this tiny island resort in the North Sound of the British Virgin Islands took place in October 2021. Hit hard by Hurricane Irma in 2017, it took five years to rebuild, but this rendition is tougher and stronger and built to withstand any future storm. The island has been a haunt for sailors and divers since its heyday in the 1960s when diving pioneer Bert Kilbride set up his diving base on the island. Today, a miniature museum takes visitors on a journey to the past showcasing maritime treasures found through the islands. You’ll find sailors and water sports enthusiasts with beer or cocktails in hand at the rooftop sunset bar and dining in the open-air restaurant. Stayover guests might feel like they are sleeping on a boat in the middle of the sea and the experience is not far from that, guest rooms are on the second level outfitted with large picture windows with direct views of the blue water. The decor is one-of-a-kind vintage and contemporary nautical with wooden oars and kiteboards lining the walls. The resort offers just nine rooms in total, seven guest rooms, and two suites, so the place never carries much of a crowd after happy hour and diners head back to their yachts. This is where you can escape the day-to-day stresses and watch the sailboats go by from the deck. Book your room at: https://sabarock.com/

Saba Rock BVI

The newly renovated private island resort of Saba Rock is a must-stop for yachties plying the waters of the BVI’s. Photo: Saba Rock

Coulibri Ridge, Dominica

The newest and latest in eco-luxury resorts to come to the nature isle. Years in the making, and every detail was researched to minimize the impact on the environment from the power technologies down to the linens you will sleep on. Here, the mantra of sustainable luxury includes conscious choices that preserve the environment. The concept is to enjoy life’s luxuries without depleting resources. Set within 200 acres of secluded wilderness with views of mountains and the sea where Martinique lingers on the horizon, the small enclave offers just 14 suites. Imagined and realized to be off-grid with solar panels, wind turbines, and the collection of rainwater to fuel the small resort that opened in October 2022. Even the interiors bow to sustainability drawing on recycled teakwood and aluminum while the exterior incorporates hand-chiseled stone sourced from the property and constructed by local community members who remain in various capacities at the resort. Guests enjoy two dining options, two pools, a spa, a yoga pavilion, and, a gym along with an island packed full of natural scenery waiting for discovery. To book a room contact: https://www.coulibriridge.com/

Dominica Coulibri Ridge

Structures that harmonize with the national beauty of the landscape were a consideration in the creation of Coulibri Ridge, a fully sustainable resort on Dominica. Photo: Coulibri Ridge

Golden Rock Dive & Nature Resort, St. Eustatius

This quaint off-the-beaten-path island hasn’t seen a new resort in years. Statia is one of a few hidden gems in the Caribbean that maintains an authentic Caribbean lifestyle and a pristine natural landscape. However, it’s been no secret to divers who have been coming for years to explore the diverse underwater habitat. Today, comfort and luxury have landed topside with the opening of Golden Rock, Statia’s ecologically sustainable resort which is powered by solar panels and receives drinking water from the sea via reverse osmosis. Sitting between the Quill, the island’s dormant volcano, and the sea, the eco-resort includes 32 deluxe rooms and suites that are carefully melded into 40 acres of natural terrain dotted with flowering gardens and an organic vegetable patch. Guests have tennis courts, a small spa, a large saltwater pool, a fitness center, and Breeze, the restaurant offering local delicacies with an ocean view. Look for the opening of the pool bar and pool cabanas next year. To book a room: https://www.goldenrockresort.com/

St Eustatius Golden Rock Dive Nature Resort

Villas at Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort have views of The Quill and the sea on this hidden Caribbean Island of St. Eustatius. Photo: Golden Rock

The Morgan Resort & Spa, St. Maarten

New on the scene in Dutch St. Maarten, The Morgan opened its doors in June of 2021. This new luxury boutique has brought a jolt of fresh energy to the island’s hospitality scene. The feel is a bit elegant, trendy and chic. Rooms are dressed in sleek and contemporary furnishings with walls of windows and private balconies or terraces. Guests gravitate to the beach-style infinity pool featuring an underwater music system and a swim-up bar with a blackjack table. Chaises and umbrellas line the walk-in pool edge and for added privacy cabanas with billowing drapes are set in the background, all within sight of the sea. The highlight is the rooftop observation deck where observers will have a 360-degree view of jets landing at Princess Juliana Airport, a favorite pastime for visitors of Maho Beach, which is just steps from the resort. For more information and to make reservations, visit: https://www.themorganresort.com/ or call 1-833-9-MORGAN.

The Morgan St Maarten

Dutch St. Maarten’s modern and stylish newcomer, The Morgan Resort & Spa, features 124 rooms and suites and overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Photo: The Morgan

O2 Beach Club & Spa, Barbados

The south coast of Barbados received a breath of fresh air with the opening of O2 Beach Club in November of 2021. The new five-star all-inclusive luxury boutique is the transformation of the former Ocean Two Resort with an additional 42 ocean view and oceanfront rooms. Contemporary, colorful, and cheerful in design bringing in elements that encompass island living with palm fronds and coral motifs in artwork, fabrics, and floor coverings. The ambiance is upbeat while remaining chill just like you’d expect from a beach club. Amenities include non- motorized sports and a full activity plan from aqua aerobics to beach volleyball is on the slate. Experience ambassadors set up how-to classes allowing you to go home with a new skill; you might learn how to make fish cakes, play the steel pans or blow a conch shell. Dining includes several options from toes-in-the-sand to fine dining with 360-degree views of the south coast. Sunset champagne and canapes are part of the elegant mix on the sky terrace. Three collections of suites allow guests to select the level of accommodations from adults–only to spacious one or two-bedroom suites. For more information: https://www.o2beachclubbarbados.com/

O2 Beach Club Barbados

Fresh and vibrant guest rooms bring in tropical colors and views of the pool and beach at O2 beach Club in St. Lawrence Gap in Barbados. Photo: O2 Beach Club

Antigua Jolly Beach
Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Dominica, Plan, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Trip Ideas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The Caribbean Makes a Comeback

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In the fall of 2017, portions of the Caribbean received back-to-back blows from hurricanes Irma and Maria. These Category 5 storms did significant damage to some islands, while virtually sparing others. In the months following the storms, rebuilding efforts were underway on all islands affected.

News of these efforts was shared during the recent Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association’s annual show. According to reports and updates, the region is not only repairing damage and restoring existing properties, but also undertaking a number of expansion projects and new builds.

In all, there are an expected 74 new builds planned. Airports are being expanded as they rebuild, and many of the islands are now receiving more incoming flights. Ferry services have returned, with some increases from both private and public ferry companies. The beaches are returning as sand comes in with the tides and on many islands life is returning to normal. Some areas and islands are still without full electrical power but expectations are to get back to 100 percent by early to mid 2018. Essentially the Caribbean is back and is still the paradise we all know and love.

Puerto Rico

In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico was very much in the news. The storm left widespread devastation, but though the Enchanted Island was down, it was far from out. Cruise ships made their first return to the Port of San Juan less than three weeks after the storm’s passing, and even without electricity, resilient shop owners were selling their wares to cruise passengers on a cash basis. The San Juan and Old San Juan tourism district spent two months recovering, with electricity and services returning week by week. By the December holiday season, a majority of the city was in business, with some 1,500 restaurants and most hotels. On the entire island 80 percent of the resorts are now open.

Puerto Rico is emerging renewed and revamped as many hotels are taking the time to renovate and add new rooms. There are still the isolated communities in the country without power, but expectations are that 95 percent of the island’s power will be restored by the end of February. Hardest hit are the eastern coast areas of Palmas del Mar and Humacao, which may take longer to recover. El Yunque rainforest was hit hard, but replanting is underway and some hiking trails have reopened. Visitors are also returning to the islands of Vieques and Culebra, which received minimal damage.

Puerto Rico San Juan Port

Cruise ships are once again docking in the Port of San Juan, and the shops and restaurants in the adjacent historic district of Old San Juan are open for business. Photo: Puerto Rico Tourism

USVI

The campaign slogan of the US Virgin Islands is “still nice”, and almost 100 percent electrical power has been restored to all three islands, the days of candles and bucket baths are over. St. Croix was spared major damage and most everything is up and running, with exception of a couple of the larger resorts. Most beaches recovered beautifully on all three islands and after a massive cleanup and rebuilding project, Magens Bay on St. Thomas is once again welcoming swimmers. Some of the larger hotels and resorts on St. Thomas and St. John were hit hard and will take time to recover. Most will be back in full operation by the end of 2018 or early 2019, renewed, renovated and in some cases with additional space. Island visitors now have the opportunity to get to know the locals by staying in small guesthouses, B & B and villas, and there is no shortage of these accommodations. On St. John the National Park trails and beaches are open. The shores are not yet as green as before the storm, but foliage is slowly coming back.

St. Croix Buccaneer

St. Croix’s landmark Buccaneer resort was spared from major storm damage from Irma and Maria, and was soon fully operational and welcoming guests. Photo: Steve Simonsen/The Buccaneer

Antigua & Barbuda

The big island of Antigua dodged the full force of Hurricane Irma, and returned to normal within 48 hours of the storm. Hotels, restaurants and bars are all open, and visitors who were already booked were able to come and enjoy vacations as planned. Unfortunately, the sister island of Barbuda was literally flattened by wind and waves, and for an already flat island of scrub and mangrove forests, the effects were devastating. The island’s 2,000 residents had to be evacuated and now live with friends and family on Antigua while their homes are being rebuilt. The potential silver lining is that new structures will be totally green and supplied by solar polar, which is a first in the islands. The storms didn’t scare away Robert DeNiro and plans are still on the books for his resort to be built on Barbuda. The islands continue to attract sailors from around the world with several sailing events throughout the year.

Antigua English Harbour

Sailboats ride at anchor in Antigua’s English Harbour. The island was not in the direct path of the storms, and suffered minimal damage from wind or waves. Photo: Stephen Robertson/iStock

Anguilla

An island that made a fast post-storm recovery is Anguilla. The airport was back open one week after Irma, and thanks to British and Canadian support, rebuilding and clean up moved quickly. Electricity was fully restored by mid December, so the island celebrated with Christmas lights and festivities. Many of the island’s five-star properties are now undergoing renovations and will open throughout the coming year. In the interim, the island has a number of small hotels and villas that are welcoming guests. The well-known Dune Preserve will need some time to rebuild, but all festivals are on, most favorite dining venues and beach bars are back in operation.

Anguilla Beach

The powder-fine sand shores of Anguilla were not severely affected by the hurricanes of 2017, and all of the island’s 33 public beaches are once again welcoming visitors. Photo: Anguilla Tourist Board

BVI

The British Virgin Islands was hit hard with back-to-back hurricanes and two floods. Maria held back some of its full force, but Irma made a direct hit on the islands. After the first hurricane, Puerto Rica sent ships with supplies to help the British Virgin Islands, but soon those ships and supplies were back on their way to Puerto Rico after Maria devastated that island. While some of the BVI’s lux resorts will take time to make their recoveries, there are several that are already up and running, including Scrub Island, Oil Nut Bay and Cooper Island. A number of smaller guesthouses and hotels are welcoming guests and crews from sailing yachts. Sailing, diving, fishing and other water sports operations are all back in business, and several charter yacht companies have expanded their fleets. The islands are rebuilding and also replanting palms, as some 6,000 coconut trees were gifted from the island of St. Vincent.

BVI The Baths

While a number of resorts in the British Virgin Islands suffered significant storm damage, iconic natural features such as the Baths of Virgin Gorda were spared. Photo: Robert Ingelhart/iStock

St. Martin/St. Maarten

The half Dutch, half French island is still rebuilding but open to visitors. The Princess Juliana airport is open and operative, using tents to receive passengers. A rebuilt terminal is scheduled to open by the end of 2018. All 37 beaches on the island are open. On the French side, Grand Case restaurants and shops are opening up on a daily basis; while the bars on the Dutch side are also back in business. Cell phone service is still spotty, but transportation services are fully operative. Both nations have a range of small hotels and guesthouses available as the larger properties rebuild. Large resorts like Oyster Bay and Sonesta on the Dutch side will be back in business by the end of 2018 or early 2019. On the French side, Grand Case and Belmond La Samanna plan on reopening by the forth quarter of 2018.

St. Maarten Great Bay

Cruise ships are once again docking at the port facilities in St. Martin’s Great Bay. Hotels around the bay are now in the process of rebuilding and reopening. Photo: Gerry Slabaugh/Flickr

Dominica

Maria did significant damage to most of the island’s buildings, including resorts. The island’s forests suffered significant wind damage, but by late fall, the Forestry & Wildlife Parks Division had reopened a number of natural attractions for tourism, including the Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, Titou Gorge and Indian River. The 115-mile Waitukubuli National Trail is still being cleared and volunteers are working on restoring the path in the segments badly hit. Meanwhile, divers are working on restoring the coral reefs. The first cruise ship, the Sea Cloud II arrived December 28 and more are returning every month. Several small hotels and guesthouses are now receiving visitors and more are partially open. The Fort Young Hotel in Roseau renovated and opened a portion of its rooms. And as other hotels renovate and rebuild, there was news of a new resort near Portsmouth breaking ground. Power is still being restored on much of the island and many of the larger properties are being rebuilt and will open in mid 2018 or 2019.

Dominica Scotts Head

Dominica’s Scotts Head Marine Reserve is one of the best and calmest snorkeling spots on the west coast of the island. Efforts are still underway to restore and clean all of the island’s dive sites. Photo: Discover Dominica

St. Barts

This was one of the first islands to announce that it was back in business after hurricane Irma slammed the Caribbean. The entire island now has electricity and water service. Clean up efforts went smoothly and the beaches are more pristine and beautiful than ever. Guests will find plenty of villas and a handful of hotels available as the larger properties rebuild. Many of the lux properties will reopen in late 2018. Resorts like Eden Rock, which sits on a promontory over the ocean, and Le Toiny, which sits at the top of a hillside, were badly damaged but will also reopen near the end of 2018.

St. Barts

The beaches of St. Barts have recovered from passing storms, and a number of the island’s favorite resorts are now in the process of rebuilding and reopening. Photo: Saint Barth Tourisme

Bonaire Horse in Water
Bonaire, Caribbean, Dominica, Turks & Caicos

Best Caribbean Horseback Riding on the Beach and in the Water

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There’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the ocean at the end of a good ride. And it’s not just humans who enjoy the cooling waters. Horses are natural swimmers, and when the conditions are right, they will gladly wade right in and splash about in the shallows, or even take a rider for a swim. Here are some of the best places in the Caribbean to make this happen.

St Lucia

This green and scenic island offers two different chances to swim with the ponies. In the heart of the Roseau Valley, the Hoof Print Horse Riding Ranch schedules a variety of tours suitable for both novices and seasoned riders. The signature route leads through forests and banana plantations on the way to the remote sands of Roseau Bay, where horses and riders can wade in for a refreshing dip, then stay for a beach barbecue. To the north, the town of Gros Islet is the home of the International Pony Club. The club’s signature rides lead to the Atlantic coast beach of Cas en Bas. Sign up for the two-hour tour and you’ll have time to change into swimwear and ride into the surf. Go for the four-hour option and the club will organize lunch on the beach as well. www.hoofprintranch.com, www.internationalponyclub.com

St. Lucia Horseback Riding on Beach

Riders gallop at waters edge along the sands of St. Lucia’s Roseau Bay. Before ocean swims, horses are often stripped of saddles while riders change into swimsuits. Photo: Stuart Godfrey/Flickr

Antigua

The best place on the island of Antigua to find rolling hills and elevated ocean views is along the island’s southwestern coast, near English Harbor. And that’s where the Antigua Equestrian Center is located. When you arrive, you may find some locals working their mounts through dressage and jumping routines, but the stables also provide daily trail rides through the hills with scenic views. These rides, which are limited to groups of four or less, can include a stop at Falmouth Bay for a canter in the shallows or a full soaking. The stables also offer longer riders to the pristine beach at remote Rendezvous Bay. www.antiguaequestrian.com

St. Croix

The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands is another destination offering two unique horseback rides that include beach swims. On the island’s north shore, where rainforest-clad hillsides overlook Caribbean beaches, riders begin a journey through the historic sugar plantation of Rust Op Twist and the village of Lavalle. The ride continues onto the beach and arrives at Cane Bay, and after a ride along the surf line, humans and animals end the adventure with a refreshing plunge and a photo op. Similar adventures await on the island’s west cost near the port of Frederiksted, where family– owned Cruzan Cowgirls leads tours through forests to historic landmarks, and along sandy beaches, where riders have the option of taking the horses into the water. A specialty of the stables is sunset rides, and the operation supports a horse rescue and community education program. www.horsebackridingstcroix.com, www.cruzancowgirls.com

Bonaire

When horseback rides through the countryside of Bonaire lead to the sand- bottom lagoon at Lac Bay, riders have a chance to do more than wade with their mounts. While humans change into swim trunks, the guides remove saddles for a true bareback swim. As depths increase gradually, and the adventure transitions from a wade to a swim, riders are instructed to maintain a body position that will allow the horse to use all four legs and keep its head above water. These swimming exercises are supervised to ensure the safety of horse and rider, creating a unique and memorable adventure. www.horseranchbonaire.com

Bonaire Horse by Lac Bay

A horse pauses for a snack during a ride at Bonaire’s Lac Bay. The island’s favorite breed is the Paso Fino, which is known for its smooth gait and “no- bounce” ride. Photo: Ellison Acosta/Flickr

Dominica

Dominica is one of the greenest and most pristine destinations in the Caribbean, with much of the island covered in rainforests and wooded mountain slopes. One of the most memorable ways to experience the island’s natural beauty is by horseback, on an excursion organized by Rainforest Riding. Rides of various durations follow the Waitukubuli Trail, a 115-mile wilderness path that winds its way across the island. A favorite route leads to Purple Turtle Beach, where riders can experience a bareback swim with their horse. Another popular choice is a ride on a section of the Waitukubuli Trail that leads through wetland and swamps that are prime habitat for native and migratory birds. This ride leads to the black sand beaches of Douglas Bay. www.rainforestriding.com

Turks and Caicos

The island of Providenciales is known for its long and spectacular beaches, which open onto the turquoise tinged shallows of the Caicos Banks. At Long Bay Beach, the shallow water continues far offshore, giving horseback riders a perfect chance to lead their mounts into the water for some splashing fun. Rides begin at the stables of Provo Ponies, and lead to the beach. Unlike some tours, which include a short swim as part of a longer trail ride, these tours spend most of their time at the beach and in the water. More experienced riders are allowed to canter in the shallows when the tides are out, and the horses don’t play follow the leader on any ride. Instead, everyone is encouraged to spread out and enjoy their time on the sand or in the shallows. There are plenty of chances for photo ops with the wading ponies. www.provoponies.com

 

Earth Day Costa Rica Frog
Africa, Asia, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Central America, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominica, Florida, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Islands, Maldives, Plan, Seychelles, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Earth Day Images From the Tropics

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On April 22, the natural world takes center stage as humans around the globe pause to reflect on the importance of protecting and enhancing the ecosystems we share with all other living creatures. Here, a colorful little red-eyed tree frog from the rainforests of Costa Rica serves as a visual reminder of the diverse, beautiful and sometimes-fragile nature of the planet Earth and its inhabitants. 

Valentine's Day In The Caribbean On Beach
Anguilla, Bahamas-New Providence, Barbados, Caribbean, Dominica, Grenada, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Martin/St. Maarten, U.S. Virgin Islands

10 Romantic Caribbean Escapes

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Don’t settle for the same old flowers and candy routine this Valentine’s Day. Treat yourself and that special someone to a romantic interlude in the Caribbean. These premiere properties are offering special packages that are sure to fan the flame.

Suite Love

Rekindle romance in a Love Nest Suite at Sandals on Barbados. These private enclaves of intimacy provide all the elements, from four-poster beds to balcony soak tubs with ocean views. Personal butler service brings indulgences right to the room, but should you wish to venture out, all the amenities of Sandals Barbados await. For Valentine’s week, the resort will offer special couple’s nights presentations such as a chocolate themed buffet. 

Barbados Sandals Resort

A swim-up suite at Sandals Barbados includes a private veranda with a soak tub that blends indoor and outdoor spaces, while still providing the ultimate in privacy. Photo: Sandals

Wine and Dine

If the way to the heart really is the stomach, there’s love aplenty at Nassau’s Graycliff Hotel. This historic and casually elegant five-star property serves up a three-night Romance Package that begins with a chilled bottle of champagne and a sampler of Graycliff chocolates. Later, you’ll be indulged with a four-course chef’s tasting menu and wine. Another night is highlighted by a Caipirinha and dinner at the Churrascaria Humidor. There is also a culinary lesson with an executive chef, a chocolate and spirits tasting and a day at the Blue Lagoon Beach.

Nassau Graycliff Chocolatier

Signature chocolate creations from Graycliff Chocolatier. This historic Nassau hotel combines five-star service with a casually elegant atmosphere. Photo: Graycliff

Stay Together, Play Together

Sugar Beach’s Sweet As Sugar package starts off with champagne and a long-stemmed rose at a luxury villa. But this isn’t your usual boudoir-centric getaway. Over the course of four days you and your special someone will bond over an introductory dive in the crystal waters of St. Lucia’s national marine reserve, hike up Gros Piton, and experience the Sulphur Seduction tour, which includes a visit to an active volcano and a soak in therapeutic mineral springs. There’s also relaxation in the mix, including a sunset cruise, breakfast in bed and a romantic candlelit dinner served beachside or in a garden setting. 

St. Lucia Sugar Beach Viceroy

A hillside villa at St. Lucia’s Sugar Beach takes in expansive views of the Caribbean Sea. Native fruit trees grow on the landscaped grounds. Photo: Sugar Beach

Spice It Up

Escape to Grenada, the island of spices, where your private luxury suite opens to spectacular Grand Anse Beach. You don’t actually have to be newlyweds to enjoy the Spice Up Your Honeymoon package at Spice Island Beach Resort, which welcomes you with tropical flowers, fresh fruit, chocolate truffles, and champagne on ice. Dine on your private patio or take in spectacular ocean views and the sounds of a steel band at Oliver’s. Relax with a couple’s massage at Janissa’s Spa and leave with a basket of spice scented body oils. Cap off a memorable day at the beach with a sunset sail along the island’s scenic Caribbean coast. 

Grenada Spice Island Resort

Spice Island Beach Resort is Grenada’s premier all-inclusive property. The resort occupies a prime location on Grand Anse Beach. Photo: Dehoog/Spice Island

Let Love Linger

Why settle for a day of romance when you can stretch a Valentine’s Day treat to a full week of togetherness. An ideal way to keep that special feeling going is with the Sea of Love package at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa on Anguilla, where luxury accommodations are set against a dazzling crescent of white sand on Rendezvous Bay. Couples can begin the day with al fresco offerings at Café Med or enjoy in-room breakfasts. There’s golf and beach time, but food often takes center stage, as the package includes select meals at three additional signature restaurants, plus cooking classes, private beachside dining and a chef’s table experience. Also in the mix are massages and spa packages, and a day’s use of a rental car to explore the island. 

Anguilla Cuisinart

Beachfront rooms and suites at Anguilla’s CuisinArt resort provide sweeping views of Rendezvous Bay. Fine dining is a hallmark of this upscale property. Photo: Joe Rahm/CuisinArt

If you love Piña Coladas…..

The song may be kitsch, but the setting is not. Puerto Rico’s Caribe Hilton actually is the birthplace of the Piña Colada, but there are many more reasons to visit this landmark property. Occupying a prime beachfront location on Condado Lagoon, and just a short distance away from the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, the Caribe Hilton is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The property has kept up with the times, and offers a full range of modern luxuries. Couples who book a three-night Valentine’s package will enjoy special perks and pricing. 

Puerto Rico San Juan Caribe Hilton

The pool at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan. For more than 60 years, this resort has been a favorite with vacationers to the island. Photo: Don Riddle/Caribe Hilton

Natural Attraction

Reconnect with nature and each other at the Caribbean’s premier eco- resort. The Tropical Romance package at Dominica’s Rosalie Bay is a five- night immersion in the island’s natural beauty, and a relaxing indulgence for body and mind. Enjoy healthful, savory cuisines based on locally sourced foods, wander a surf-washed black sand beach and enjoy a private five- course dinner served on the banks of a scenic river. The package also includes a couple’s massage, a day trip to Dominica’s famous Champagne Reef, and a relaxing soak in the hot sulphur springs. Rooms are lavished with fresh flowers daily, and gifted with natural island-related aphrodisiacs at evening turndown.

Dominica Rosalie Bay

A view from the porch at Rosalie Bay. Sitting next to a nature preserve, this upscale eco retreat overlooks a black sand beach and the surf-washed Atlantic. Photo: Rosalie Bay

Love on the Rocks

Perched on a rocky seaside bluff at the entrance to Charlotte Amalie’s harbor, Frenchman’s Reef provides a romantic setting where couples can watch the ships come and go from a private balcony, and take in the lights of St. Thomas at night. The resort’s Ultimate Romance Package is ideal for a Valentine’s getaway, and includes requisite perks such as champagne, couple’s spa treatments and special dining credits. An added attraction of stays at Frenchman’s is immediate access to the quiet sands of Morningstar Beach.

St. Thomas Frenchman's Reef

A view from the hillside terrace at Frenchman’s Reef take in the harbor of Charlotte Amalie and the island of St. Thomas. Photo: Corey Weiner/Frenchman’s Reef

Fragrant Memories

A dozen red roses set the tone when you arrive at Belmond La Samanna, where rooms open to fresh sea breezes and the sapphire blue waters of Long Bay. During the month of February, the resort’s Valentine’s Package provides perks such as a Tijon VIP gift bag, couple’s Swedish massage and a unique dinner experience at La Cave, the resort’s on-site atmospheric wine cellar. For a sensory reminder of their time together on St. Martin, couples are treated to a perfumery tour, where they can create their own handcrafted fragrance.

Belmond La Samanna St. Martin

Whites and warm wood accents complement the blues of the Caribbean at Belmond La Samanna. This St. Martin resort is known for good food and fine wines. Photo: La Samanna

Say I Still Do

Anguilla’s Cap Juluca is a stunningly beautiful setting where it would be hard not to fall in love—or fall in love again. To facilitate romances new and old, the resort is offering several Valentine’s themed specials during the month of February. The Romantic Rendezvous pampers couples in a luxury oceanfront room or suite, and adds in extras such as couple’s massages, daily libations and a special private beachside dinner under the stars. During Valentine’s week, couples can reaffirm their commitments with the I Still Do package, which begins with a beach or lawn ceremony, complete with photographer, bouquet and boutonniere. This is followed by champagne and cake, and the day ends with a private three-course dinner with wine on the beach.

Cap Juluca Anguilla

The distinctive Greco-Moorish architecture of Cap Juluca resort complements the white sands and blue waters of Anguilla’s Maunday’s Bay. Photo: Mark Welland/Cap Juluca

Dominican Republic Whale Breaching
Caribbean, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Play, Trip Ideas

The Caribbean’s Best Islands for Whale Watching

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Thanks to warm weather, clear waters and an abundance of large marine mammals, the Caribbean is gaining an international reputation as one of the world’s best whale watching destinations. In all, more than 25 species of whales and dolphin are found in these waters. They may be found around many of the Windward and Leeward Islands, but there are certain destinations that provide almost guaranteed sightings. Here are three of our favorites.

Dominican Republic

The DR is the most popular whale watching destination in the Caribbean, thanks to the seasonal arrival of humpback whales, which migrate from northern waters each winter to breed and give birth in protected waters along the island’s northern coast. A limited number of long-range boats visit offshore sites on the Silver and Navidad Banks, but the vast majority of whale watching activity takes place in the sheltered waters of Samaná Bay. A half-day excursion puts watchers in the thick of the action, and these whales do much more than just come up for air. Humpbacks are known for behaviors such as pectoral slapping, lob tailing and breaching. In simple terms, this means they can be seen rolling onto their sides to slap the water with a large fin, turning upside down and sticking their large tail flukes high in the air, and leaping from the water to create dramatic splashes. Humpbacks also sing, and a number of tour operators equip their boats with underwater hydrophones that allow passengers to hear the underwater sounds of the whales. The Dominican Republic’s whale watching season runs from January to March.

Dominican Whale

Humpbacks come to the Dominican Republic each winter to rest and breed in the protected waters of Samaná Bay. The bay, which is now a humpback sanctuary, draws several thousand whales. Photo: Dominican Republic Tourism

Dominica

The steep mountains of Dominica continue downward into the Caribbean Sea, reaching depths of more than 3,000 feet quite close to the island’s coast. This creates an ideal habitat for one of the largest mammals in the world—the sperm whale. Sheltered from wind and waves by the tall peaks, they find calm waters where they can rest between deep dives for giant octopus, which are their favorite food. More than 200 sperm whales live year round in an area off the island’s western shore. Many of Dominica’s full-time whales are females who use the protected waters to give birth and raise their young. From February through May, they are joined by males, who take a break from their open ocean rovings to stop by for courtship and breeding. Whale watching tours are conducted year round, but the period from October through March is considered prime season, as this is the best time to find not only the sperm whales, but also migrating species such as humpbacks and large pods of bottlenose, spinner and spotted dolphins. The towns of Scotts Head, Roseau, Layou and Point Round are all popular starting points for boat trips.

Dominica Whale Watching From Boat

Passengers on a whale watching boat in the waters of Dominica watch as a sperm whale dives into the depths. This species can be found year round close to the island’s west coast. Photo: Dominica Tourist Board

Guadeloupe

For sheer variety, few whale watching destinations can match the islands of Guadeloupe. At any time of the year, one of more than two dozen species of marine mammals may be spotted from land or from the decks of the ferryboats that connect the islands. But for all almost guaranteed encounters with whales and dolphin, visitors head to the northwestern corner of Basse Terre. Just a few miles from shore, an area of deep water is home to sperm whales, and sits right in the pathway of migrating humpbacks. In addition to these two high-profile species, the waters hold a veritable who’s who of Caribbean whales, including long and short finned pilot whales, orca, pygmy right whales, false killer whales, pygmy sperm whales, melon-headed whales and the rare Antilles beaked whale. Also frequenting these waters are spinner, spotted, bottlenose, Risso’s and Fraser’s dolphins. Tour boats often use underwater microphones to locate sperm whales by the clicking sounds they make. At any time of the year, operators claim a better than 60 percent chance of finding the sperms, and encounters with one or more of the area’s other types of whale or dolphin are all but guaranteed. A favorite are the large pods of spinner dolphins, which can number in the hundreds, and provide an aerial show as they leap and twist.

Guadeloupe Whale Watching

In Guadeloupe, the island of Basse-Terre is the starting point for whale watching tours to an area known to hold more than 15 different species of marine mammal. Photo: Debbie Snow

 

Dominica Freshwater Lake MorneTrois
Caribbean, Dominica, Plan, Trip Ideas

Dominica: 10 Reasons to Go

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Dominica is a land of unspoiled rainforests, volcanic hot springs, wild rivers and waterfalls. More than 60 percent of the island is covered in lush tropical vegetation, and protected within three national parks, including the Morne Trois Piton National Park, a World Heritage Site.

1  Big Views

From any point on the island, you’ll never be without the sights of a mountain peak. There are five major mountains on the island, the highest rising to 4,000. Roads and trails lead to scenic high points that provide sweeping views of the ocean. Some of the most dramatic vistas can be found within the 17,000-acre expanse of Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Roseau Dominica View

The west coast port of Roseau is Dominica’s capital and only large town. It is built on a coastal plain that was inhabited by Amerindian tribes for more than 2,000 years. Photo: iStock.

2  River Runs

The island boasts 365 rivers. In reality there are around 200 that actually qualify for the title, but if you count every stream and creek you could indeed find a different flow of water for every day of the year. While the list of named waterways is long, there are actually still some waiting to be identified. The longest is the Layou River, popular for tubing and kayak tours. The mangrove- lined Indian River was featured in Pirates of the Caribbean, while the sulfur-tinged waters of the White River are said to be therapeutic to bathers.

3  The Last of the Caribs

In a remote valley on Dominica’s eastern shore, descendants of a pre-Columbian culture continue a way of life that dates back more than a thousand years. The Kalinago people live on a 3,700-acre reservation in small villages and farms that could only be reached by torturous mountain trails well into the latter 20th century. Now accessible by roads and a short hike, the tribe welcomes visitors who come to discover the old ways, which are shared through stories and demonstrations of artisanal skills, and celebrated in song and dance. Be sure to try the cassava bread, shop for wooden and woven arts and don’t pass up on any ceremony open to the outside.

Dominica Baskets

Dominica’s Kalinago people are expert basket makers. Their handicrafts are prized by collectors, and can be purchased directly from weavers who follow thousand-year-old traditions. Photo: iStock

4  Whale Watching

Dominica has earned a reputation as the whale watching capital of the Caribbean. Sperm whales can be seen in the waters of Dominica through the year, with prime viewing months between November to March, when mothers arrive to nurse their calves. Other marine mammals often seen in the same area include pilot, humpback, and false killer whales, plus spinner, spotted and bottlenose dolphin.

5  Waterfalls

The cascade at Emerald Pool gets all of the ink due to its easy access and convenience to the town of Roseau, but the entire island is loaded with waterfalls, some easy to reach, others requiring some vigorous hiking. An easy 20-minute walk through the forest leads to Trafalgar Falls, while you’ll have to devote three hours for a round-trip to Middleham Falls. Hikers willing to do some scrambling over rocks and across river beds can discover Sari Sari Falls or the island’s grandest, 165-foot Victoria Falls, which is fed by the waters of Boiling Lake.

Emerald Pool Waterfall Dominica

The cascade known as Emerald Pool is one of Dominica’s prime natural attractions. It is also one of the easier to reach, requiring just a five-minute walk from the roadway. Photo: iStock

6  Natural Spas

At locations across the island, natural sulphur pools and hot springs well up from the island’s interior. Some are hidden in the woods, while others have been enhanced by enterprising islanders, who charge a small fee for soaks in pools set within landscaped gardens. A favorite is Screw’s Sulphur Springs, where pools range from hot to warm to cool and refreshing. Also popular are the baths and waterfalls at Ti Kwen Glo Cho and the Papillote Wilderness Retreat which combines sulphur soaks with yoga and massage.

7  Diving

The underwater landscape of Dominica is the most dramatic and varied in the Caribbean. It is also among the healthiest. The island is ringed by coral reefs that begin close to shore, and the calm western coast of the island includes more than two dozen prime diving and snorkeling sites that lie within a trio of marine reserves.

Dominica Diving

The western coast of Dominica is home to some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Caribbean. The underwater landscape includes pinnacles and unusual formations created by past volcanic activity. Photo: Discover Dominica Authority

8  For the Birds

More than 175 species of birds can be found in the forests of Dominica, including 4 types of native humming bird. Other noteworthy sightings include two species of endemic parrot, the Sisserou and Jacquot, along with blue-hooded euphonias, mountain whistlers and broad winged hawks. A prime birding area is the Syndicate Forest on the western slopes of the Morne Diablotin National Park, and also popular is a boat ride up the shaded Indian River to search for the giant ringed kingfisher.

9  The Longest Path

The Waitukubuli National Trail is the Caribbean’s longest hike and took years to complete. It stretches 115 miles across the mountainous backbone of Dominica, and runs south from Scott’s Head to the Cabrits National Park in the north. Along the way it leads through national parks, villages, coastal areas, and the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail is broken into 14 individual segments, giving day hikers plenty of options.

Dominica Boiling Lake

Dominica’s Boiling Lake lives up to its name, with waters nearly 200 degrees near the shore, and come to a boil near the center, where hot gasses bubble up from volcanic vents. Photo: iStock

10  Eco-minded Hotels

You won’t find any large hotel chains on Dominica, as accommodations tend toward boutique properties with an edge toward environmentally sound operations. Rosalie Bay is a 28- room enclave built to resemble a traditional village, overlooking a black sand beach on the island’s surf-washed eastern shore. Powered by solar and wind energy, the resort serves organic foods harvested fresh from their farm, and sponsors a turtle protection program that is followed island wide. Even more secluded is Secret Bay, an eco luxury resort of just eight bungalows and villas, all nestled into a hillside overlooking Prince Rupert Bay, and one of the longest and less-visited beaches.

Puerto Rico St Regis Bahia
Caribbean, Dominica, Nevis, Puerto Rico

Caribbean Turtle Beaches

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Caribbean beaches attract more than vacationing humans. Each year, momma sea turtles travel thousands of miles back to their nesting ground on island sands. They are returning to the place where they were hatched, where they will lay their own eggs. The hatching process takes approximately 60 days from when the female first digs the nest until the hatchlings head for the sea. Turtles will lay hundreds of eggs, and may create more than one nest a year. That’s a lot of babies, but in nature, only one in a thousand will survive to maturity. And that’s before poaching, habitat loss, and other environmental factors take their additional toll. To even the odds, several Caribbean resorts have started conservation programs to ensure that more of these hard-shelled mariners survive and grow.

Nevis Four Seasons Sea Turtle

A juvenile green sea turtle swimming in the coastal waters of Nevis. Thanks to programs such as the Four Season’s nest monitoring, local sea turtle populations are rebounding. Photo: Zoonar/Four Seasons Nevis

Rosalie Bay, Dominica

Dominica Sea Turtle

A newly hatched leatherback crawls across a strand of sea grass at Rosalie Bay. Photo: Rosalie Bay

Tucked into the southeast coast of Dominica, this 29-room eco- resort fronts the Atlantic Ocean and has the Rosalie River flowing along the property edge. The resort’s 22 acres sustain the lush landscape that is the essence of Dominica, the nature island. Guest suites are in buildings that resemble an island village and are enveloped in indigenous vegetation and tropical fruit trees.

As part of its sustainable ethos, Rosalie Bay now provides proactive protection for nesting turtles and maintains a turtle nursery. This program was founded by resort owner Beverly Deikel 10 years ago when she recognized the black sand beaches at Rosalie’s doorstep were important nesting grounds for the endangered leatherback sea turtle that is native to the island. Thanks to her efforts and the training of staff and residents, over the course of a decade turtle’s nests at Rosalie Beach have grown from seven to more than 80 a season.

Turtle nesting season runs from May to October and at that time guests can witness 800-pound turtles crawling ashore to nest, or hold new hatchlings and help them along their first journey to the sea. Guests also help patrol the beach to protect nesting turtles, assist researchers in collecting data, and observe the relocation of turtles to the turtle hatchery. There is also the option to be “on call” when baby sea turtles hatch which could happen in the middle of the night.

Dominica Rosalie Bay Lobby

The lobby as well as the guest suites of Rosalie Bay embraces the local environment. Sherbet colored buildings resemble local villages of Dominica. Photo: Debbie Snow

St. Regis Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico St Regis Sea Turtle

A female leatherback turtle makes her way onto the sand at Puerto Rico’s Bahia Beach. Photo: St. Regis Bahia Beach

Long before the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort was built in 2010, the beaches of Bahia Bay were under the watchful eye of biologists and environmentalist. These sands are key habitats for nesting sea turtles, including the endangered leatherback.

During the resort’s development phase, a team of engineers, environmentalists and architects were tasked with preserving as much of the flora and fauna as possible. This resulted in a property that includes just 129 rooms set on 483 acres, with more that 65 percent of this land maintained as green space. This led to Bahia Beach being certified as a Gold Signature Sanctuary by Audubon International-the first and only resort in the Caribbean to have such recognition.

The St. Regis partnered with existing conservation initiates and created a unique guardian program that encourages guests to observe or participate in protection efforts. Working within guidelines established by biologists, guests can report on nesting activity or monitor hatching events. It is after emerging from their shells that baby turtles are most vulnerable, as they must climb out of the sand and make their way to the water. This is when guests may be able to guide the hatchlings by making a runway out to the sea. Guests can also help by patrolling beaches and notifying biologists if they see a turtle or any turtle tracks, and they are sometimes able to ride along when the staff is patrolling beaches during the day.

Puerto Rico St Regis

Puerto Rico’s Bahia Bay is one of the Caribbean’s most important nesting sites for leatherback turtles. The St. Regis resort overlooks the bay, but does not disturb the habitat. Photo: Debbie Snow

 

Four Seasons Nevis

Nevis Turtles Four Seasons

Guests at the Four Seasons Nevis watch a female green sea turtle make her way back to the ocean. Photo: Four Seasons Nevis

The Four Seasons sits on 350 acres of green rolling hills that blends into the natural environment, with Nevis Peak, the 3,232 cloud-shrouded sleeping volcano, in the background. This classic resort overlooks the four-mile stretch of Nevis’ Pinneys Beach. Endowed with golden sands and calm turquoise water, this is the island’s’ most popular beach—and it’s also a favorite with nesting sea turtles. To accommodate turtles, the beach bars scattered along the beach are set back from the water, and nighttime lighting is often muted.

During the height of turtle nesting season which runs from June through October, guests can join nighttime turtle watch walks, observe nesting and hatchlings. Guests can also assist marking nests and gathering scientific data, which may assist in tracking migratory paths of turtles. The Four Seasons provides an additional range of ecological-themed activities for all ages. During summer, children can attend Sea Turtle Camp, where they learn about these animals through a series of interactive programs.

The highlight of this program is the Sea Turtle Conservancy Weekend, held each July in partnership with the International Sea Turtle Conservancy and the Nevis Turtle Group. A range of additional activities is scheduled for the weekend, and guests of all ages are invited to join the program. While protecting turtles is high on the list, the resort also has other inhabitants, the socially active vervet monkeys. The best time to see a troop is on one of the Sunset Monkey Excursions with a resident monkey expert. These tours are a highlight for adults as well as kids.

Nevis Four Seasons

Nevis Peak looms over the grounds of the Four Seasons Nevis. Lush landscaping provides habitat for birds and monkeys, while the beach is prime nesting for sea turtles. Photo: Debbie Snow

 

 

 

St Kitts Music Festival
Anguilla, Aruba, Caribbean, Curacao, Dominica, Jamaica, Nevis, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, U.S. Virgin Islands

Best Caribbean Music Festivals

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There’s more to the Caribbean music scene than reggae and steel drums. All across the region, a growing number of festivals and concerts are added to the calendar each year. Initially, jazz was the focus of many such events, now world music is part of the mix and famous artists are heard in a diverse array of musical styles that include blues, dancehall, soca, new age jazz, fusion, R& B and more. Each event and each successive year out does the previous, upping the ante on talent, parties and attractions.

March

Moonsplash Music Festival, Anguilla

The year 2015 marked the 25th year for this local event turned international extravaganza, which takes place every March during the full moon. Hosted by local musician Bankie Banx at his beachfront bar, The Dune Preserve, the party pulls in big names in reggae, along with upcoming local talent. For more information and the lineup for next year visit www.bankiebanx.net

April

Nevis Blues Festival, Nevis

The premier of this three-day event on Nevis took place in 2015 with a stellar line-up of local and international talent. Nevis is a natural, intimate and relaxed island and the organizers created the Nevis Blues Festival to complement that vibe. Guests are immersed in island culture and enjoy local cuisine while relaxing to sounds of blues at the Sundowner Stage on Oualie Bay. For more information and tickets for the Nevis Blues Festival, visit www.nevisbluesfestival.com

Love City Live, St John, USVI

This weekend-long celebration is filled with music, plenty of beach parties and boatloads full of revelers. A reggae concert kicks off an in-town block party. Later in the weekend the party moves to Cruz Bay’s beachfront and continues on boats that head to the British Virgin Islands. Local food, chef soirees and visits to local bars and restaurants are all on the agenda. Current dates, tickets and more information visit www.experiencelovecitylove.com

Tobago Jazz Experience, Trinidad & Tobago

The quiet island of Tobago is surely on the map after the 2015 concert, which featured a stellar lineup of international artists including recording star and actress Jennifer Hudson, singer- songwriter Jill Scott and legendary R&B band Kool and the Gang. Performances take place on the coastal town of Speyside and move to Pigeon Point Heritage Park as well as other coastal spots around the island for a full week of music, culture and gastronomy. For the 2016 lineup and more information visit www.tobagojazzexperience.com

May

Soul Beach Music Festival, Aruba

This five-day festival takes in the holidays around Memorial Day and combines Aruba’s tropical charms with rhythm and blues performances. The action takes place both day and night, with parties bouncing between the Moomba Beach and the Renaissance Aruba Resort. The majority of concert performances take place Friday through Sunday, leaving Memorial Day free for one last dip in the surf. The Soul Beach Amphitheater, the Havana Beach Club, the Hard Rock Café-Aruba are some of the main performance venues. For more information visit www.soulbeach.net

Aruba Soul Beach

During the annual Soul Beach Music Festival, the island of Aruba moves to the sounds of Rhythm and Blues. Celebrating its 15th year, this event has been named one of the best celebrations in the Caribbean. Photo: Aruba Tourism Authority

St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival,  St Lucia

The St. Lucia Jazz Festival started the trend of music festivals in the Caribbean over 20 years ago, and today it remains one of the most popular in the Caribbean, drawing crowds from both Europe and the United States. Since it inception in 1992, the festival has added a mix of popular acoustical, fusion and new age jazz, as well as soca and R&B. Once centered in the capital of Castries, the festival is now a week-long celebration of local culture, fashion and food, staged at venues across the island. The main stage is set on the peninsula of Pigeon Island National Park, with the sea as a backdrop. For more information visit www.stluciajazz.org

Curacao International BlueSeas Festival, Curacao

New on the circuit in 2015 was the inaugural Curacao International BlueSeas Festival. Attracting a veritable “who’s who” of modern blues artists, the event was labeled a celebration of “traditional and gentrified” jazz music. Performances were staged at Kleine Werf in downtown Punda, and a free two-day street festival in the historic Pietermaii district. With this entree into the world of the blues, Curacao has staked its claim in the Caribbean music festival scene. For more information visit www.curacaoblueseasfestival.com

June

St. Kitts Music Festival, St Kitts

Another longtime favorite event that will hit the 20-year mark in 2016 is the extravaganza that takes place at Warner Park Stadium on the island of St. Kitts. The lineup includes a range of musical styles including R&B, jazz, hip-hop, reggae, rock, calypso, gospel and contemporary. Past performers include John Legend, Lionel Richie, Michael Bolton, K.C. and the Sunshine Band, Damian Marley and Shaggy. For more on this event go to stkittsmusicfestival.com

St. Kitts Music Festival

The jazz/reggae fusions of Arturo Tappin fill Warner Park Stadium during the 2015 St. Kitts Music Festival. The performance lineup includes everything from gospel to hip-hop. Photo: Jawanza Bassue/St. Kitts Tourism

July

Reggae Sumfest, Jamaica

This Montego Bay event attracts tens of thousand of reggae fans and includes music born out of Jamaica. Reggae pulls in the masses but hard-core lovers of the island’s many musical styles will be in heaven when they hear and move to ska, dub and dancehall. Top Caribbean bands and international talent headline the event. Evening events take place at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex, which is an outdoor arena. The final day is a beach party. For more information visit www.reggaesumfest.com 

Jamaica Montego Bay Reggae

At Jamaica’s Sumfest, Damian Marley carries on the musical traditions of his father, reggae legend Bob Marley. Staged at Montego Bay, the festival encompasses the full range of Jamaica’s music scene. Photo: Jamaica Tourist Board

September

Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival, Aruba

This annual event begins with a four-day warm up of performances staged at smaller venues, all leading up to the weekend’s main event. Come Friday, a full-on lineup of international and local jazz, Latin, soul and funk musicians take over the Renaissance Market Place in Oranjestad. Local bars, restaurants and food stands join in the fun with special festival menus and libations. Past events have featured George Benson, David Sanborn, Willie Garcia, Roberta Flack and Chakan Khan. This year the first band to ignite the festivities is Earth Wind & Fire. For additional information and tickets visit www.caribbeanseajazz.com

North Sea Jazz Festival, Curacao

This popular event has been pulling in talent and crowds for the past several years. The event draws enthusiasts from all over the world and has been praised for showcasing an eclectic mix of sounds to please pop revelers and die-hard jazz fans alike. This year’s line up will include John Legend, Enrique Iglesias, Usher, Wyclef Jean, Lionel Richie, legendary salsa vocalist Oscar D’León, British soul sensation Emeli Sandé, and the R&B group, The Pointer Sisters. Performances take place at Curacaos’ World Trade Center in Piscadera Bay. For tickets and more information visit www.curacaonorthseajazz.com

October

World Creole Music Festival, Dominica

An eclectic mix of music comes to the Nature Island with a festival that has been steadily increasing in size and popularity since its inception in 1997. The festival includes local celebrations and takes place during the island’s Independence Day, so everyone gets involved. Music traditions such as zouk, soukous and bouyon join reggae, calypso and soca tunes to keep crowds dancing and grooving through the three-day event. Outdoor venues such as the Botanic Gardens and the Layou River often become the site of free performances and family-oriented activities for both locals and visitors. For tickets and schedule visit www.wcmfdominica.com

Cayman Brac Hiking
Antigua & Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Nevis, Play, Puerto Rico, Trip Ideas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The Caribbean’s Ten Top Hikes

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When you are vacationing in the Caribbean, you’re already far outside your everyday, so why not take the next step-or several hundred of them-to widen your island experience with a hike. Tread these natural sanctuaries for encounters with local birds and wildlife, lush rainforests and sweeping panoramas of paradise. We’ve hiked the duds and the winners to give you a list of the Caribbean’s best trails—from breezy to push-the-limits challenging —winding past waterfalls, rivers, beaches, tide pools and so much more.

The Bubbly Pool Hike, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands

From Foxy’s Taboo, a popular bar and party spot on Great Harbour, the bartenders can steer you to the start of this 15- minute, super easy walk to the island’s rock-walled soaking spot. You’ll end at a pool with crashing waves sending spray overhead and a surge of bubbles up into the basin where you’re standing.

Lighthouse Footpath, Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands

Start at either end of this trail for a 90-minute walk each way past nesting grounds of brown boobies. If you make the lighthouse at the island’s easternmost point your halfway mark, pack a lunch to enjoy while sitting on limestone cliffs overlooking breaking waves. Free printed guides are available: Ask at the front desk of Brac Reef Beach Resort, or see the pamphlet in your guesthouse to arrange your hike.

The Signal Hill Tour, Antigua

Antigua’s shortest and easiest hike starts at Wallings Dam, found at the end of Fig Tree Drive. From there, it’s about an hour—if you don’t stop—to the top of Signal Hill, which rewards finishers with a 360-degree island view. If you’d like to learn more about local history and wildlife, join a tour company like Footsteps Rainforest Hiking Tours.

The Annaly Bay Tide Pool Hike, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

You won’t need fins for the tide pools at the end of this hike, but do pack a snorkel mask so you can take a cool dip and see the juvenile fish nesting in the shallows. Start this moderate, 2-mile hike behind Carambola Beach Resort and Spa. The parking-lot attendant can point you to the trailhead. It’s a fairly straightforward trail that climbs the bluffs overlooking the island’s north shore. You’ll surely stop several times to snap photos, so the uphill stretches won’t feel too strenuous.

El Toro Hike, Puerto Rico

Most visitors to El Yunque National Forest stick to the roadside pullovers immediately adjacent to waterfalls and other attractions. El Toro Trail sees few visitors despite being a moderate, well-marked 2.2-mile journey to the forest’s highest point. Wear long pants and shoes you don’t mind getting caked in mud. As for the vista, allow time to sit and enjoy the clouds rolling in.

The Sandy Cruz Trail, Saba

A visit to Saba, a satellite island of St. Maarten, is all about the cloud forest. Wait for a day when the fog has subsided around Mount Scenery, then set off on this hike. Before you go, grab a trail map from The Trail Shop at the foot of the mountain—the attendants will also keep tabs on your return. This moderate hike is the best pick for those who want to see a diversity of flora and fauna. The trail winds past banana tree groves and dense cloud forest dotted with a rainbow of orchids, and opens up to a vista overlooking the island’s airport runway, one of the world’s shortest and most adrenaline inducing.

Victoria Falls Hike, Dominica

Lose the hiking boots in favor of Tevas or similar water-ready shoes as you’ll wade across a river several times. The path can be tricky to keep track of on your own, so it’s a good idea to hire a guide for the day. Jenner Robinson of JennTours is a good pick. He’s from Dominica and has a knack for pointing out the birds of the canopy. As for the 45-minute climb, the incline isn’t too great; the challenge is staying stable atop wet rocks. But the reward is lovely. You’ll likely be the only ones admiring the 165-foot cascade of Victoria Falls.

Mount Qua Qua Trail, Grenada

Grenada is a wonderland for hikers and birders alike. The rainforest around Grand Etang Lake—what’s become of the former volcano—is home to mona monkeys, broad-winged hawks, Lesser Antillean swifts and tons of tiny frogs. A moderate pick is the Mount Qua Qua Trail, a 90-minute cruise past the lake, the elfin mountain forests and a host of canopy critters.

The Quill, St. Eustatius

It’s the jungle-covered volcanic cone that dominates the skyline from points across this small island, and it’s a gorgeous hike. The 50-minute uphill jaunt known as the Quill Trail is Statia’s most popular hike as it offers direct access to an overlook of the crater bowl. If you want to keep going, you can connect to the Crater Trail for a 90-minute circuit of the volcano’s rainforest-covered inner crater. Boven National Park also maps six other trails, all great for spying fauna like red-bellied racer snakes, Antillean iguanas, hummingbirds and more.

Nevis Peak Hike, Nevis

Steep and slippery, this hike is one worth doing with a guide, such as Lynell Liburd of Sunrise Tours. The 3,000-foot incline takes two hours to scale and two hours to pick your way down—and none of the locals call it hiking. It’s more about finding footing and grabbing hold of roots to gain ground. If it’s a clear day, you score a view of the island’s Atlantic side. Otherwise, it’s just a really satisfying workout.