Choosing a Caribbean Island - Part 1
(390 Reviews)
98% Recommended
Pam MacIntyre
Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?" I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand! I mean who wouldn't wa...
New Zealand
In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?" I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand! I mean who wouldn't want to experience this majestic part of the world?
Recently I was able to explore several areas of this amazing country, being fortunate in visiting both the North & South Island. What I love is New Zealand can be mellow or action-packed, yet it will still always be epic!
From the endless national parks, dynamic Maori culture, to experiencing the sounds aboard a yacht while gazing upon dolphins. And let’s not forget about laying witness to the majestic beauty of a sperm whale off the coast of Kaikoura.
Wait, did you say you enjoy wine? They have some of THE best in the world....how do I know? Because how could I go all the way to New Zealand and not visit a winery or two. New Zealand offers the deliciousness of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Merlot and many more!
I really could go on and on, but no need if you're reading this you already KNOW you want to explore this part of the world. I would love to help you create the best version of New Zealand for you!
Australia
Let me start by saying, I have been wanting to go to Australia since I was a child. Why you ask? Well to pet a kangaroo of course! And I did! Not only did I pet kangaroos, but I fed 4 simultaneously! It was a childhood dream come true, and I cannot wait to go back and repeat the experience.
I was in Sydney during the spectacular International lights and music festival, Vivid Sydney. It was their 10th year, and all I've got to say is WOW! Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought Australia would be so perfect to visit during their winter season. Although being from Minnesota it was more like our fall temperatures. So again, perfect! It was extra special to experience VIVID Sydney and see the iconic Sydney Opera House light up. If you travel during this time of year, it truly is a must see.
The Blue Mountains region of Australia was truly lovely to walk amongst. Then headed to Hunter Valley (to locals known as "The Hunter") where wine in this region was flowing plentifully and was quite delicious!
After making a visit to Australia I now understand why many choose to go there for 2 - 4 weeks on a vacation. It's truly hard to grasp the sheer size of Australia until you have been there yourself. To give you an idea, think about the USA. Sydney would be in Florida; Cairns (Great Barrier Reef) would be in Maine; Uluru (Ayers Rock) would be in Kansas; Melbourne would be New Orleans; and Perth would be Los Angeles.
If you're looking to visit the world's largest Great Barrier Reef, immerse yourself in Aboriginal communities, swim with whale sharks or gaze upon the Uluru (Ayers Rock) the possibilities really are endless in Australia!
Together we'll create your dream trip to Australia that you'll remember for the rest of your days!
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Swimming with the pigs in The Bahamas
These islands are easily accessible from many U.S. Airports
Aruba:
Aruba has some of the cleanest, broadest and most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean! The Arubans are known to be incredibly welcoming and friendly. There are endless activities from fantastic diving, excellent wind & kite surfing (due to the trade winds), and extensive nightlife options from cocktail parties, tropical nights, beach BBQ’s and Happy Hours. In Aruba you’ll find casual pubs, live action karaoke and dance clubs! It’s a very eco-friendly, clean island with very low poverty rates. Which means you'll not encounter beach vendors like you do in some other tropical locations. Enjoy a good casino? Aruba has them!
Aruba Travel Tip: Be sure to pick up some carrots & apples to head over to the Donkey Sanctuary for a special experience!
Dominican Republic:
The Dominican is the most visited country in the Caribbean with 6 million visitors annually … and for good reason. It draws many beach lovers with Punta Cana & Cap Cana’s idyllic beaches. Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa even is set on a beach and you are allowed to walk about 2 miles into the ocean with drink in hand the entire way! If you want to experience Humpback whale watching? Check out Samana from Dec. - Mar. From sugar cane sleepy towns, to beach lovers delight, fishing villages, to their vibrant seaside capital this island has several areas you can visit, depending on the experience you are looking for!
Jamaica:
Jamaica is very laid back and good value island. A favorite amongst Travel Advisor—myself included! In Jamaica where you stay truly can make OR break your experience. Jamaica is also a terrible cruise spot, just not as scenic where they port, so depending on where or if they visit via a cruise that will impact their tales. There are several areas to visit from the picturesque Seven Mile beach of Negril, to the mountainous region of Ocho Rios and a few other wonderful spots in-between. Overwater bungalows, they have them … all-inclusive style even! Love spicy food? Then you’ll love Jamaican Cuisine! Jerk Chicken, is a daily delight during my visits!
Cayman Islands:
Cayman is a laid back and stunningly beautiful island boasting the relaxing Seven Mile Beach. Here you'll gaze upon some of the most incredible and unique sunsets. A foodies delight, with cuisine ranging from high-end to casual with the island offering even some unique delicacies such as cracked conch and spicy conch chowder.
Puerto Rico:
Old San Juan features cobblestone streets, brightly painted homes and historical architecture creating a charming destination. The beaches surrounding San Juan are generally rockier, narrow or man-made. They do offer beautiful beaches, however you'll need to travel further or to surrounding islands. If history interests you than you must visit Puerto Rico, if beaches are your main interest there are other islands that may better suit you. No passport is required to visit, therefore tends to be a popular draw for many. Puerto Rico is going to be more costly than other destinations.
Saint Martin (French)/Sint Maarten (Dutch):
With dual heritage makes this a very unique and cosmopolitan island to experience. The northern half is French and southern half is Dutch, both sides offering equally incredible views. The French side will be more low-key offering little to nothing in the way of nightclubs or casinos. The Dutch side will be more lively, the main town of Philipsburg has plenty to do. Americans do tend to enjoy the vibe of the Dutch side a bit more. The French side is going to be more European. Ultimately I would at least experience both sides to determine what YOU prefer. Another culinary favorite island with lovely beaches, great shopping and friendly locals. This island steals the hearts of many, with several repeat visitors.
The Bahamas:
Consisting of 700 islands, if you visit outside of Nassau/Cable Beach you’ll find some accommodations that make you feel like you’re “really in the Caribbean." There are accommodations available for those looking to experience Luxury or Caribbean Rustic. Emerald Bay is particularly breathtaking. Swimming with the pigs is a bucket list for many, so head over to Exuma for this experience. You can visit Eleuthera & Harbour Island for pink sand beaches.
U.S. Virgin Islands:
In the Virgin Islands it is easy to rent a car. You can check out different restaurants (yes, they too have amazing food choices). Consider checking it out during Dine VI between Oct. 27th - Nov. 12th. Are you sporty or adventurous type? Then you’ll love it here! If shopping your thing, they have the highest duty-free limit in the Caribbean. They have everything from artisan goods to luxury products. Blackbeard’s Castle is here and a must see!
If any of these islands spark your curiosity together we can determine which island is right for your next trip!