Choosing a Caribbean Island - Part 2
(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!
Can Be Reached At
1-763-231-8893
Freight's Bay - Barbados, Caribbean
To access these Islands, you'll either change planes or less frequent direct flights
Antigua:
Antigua is considered one of the most romantic islands known for its intimate boutique hotels. There are accommodations suitable for families, luxurious getaways or a romantic escape. There are 365 powdery white sand beaches with crystal clear waters in Antigua. You may want to check out the Antigua Carnival during the first weekend of August. The celebrations run for about 13 days. There is incredible seafood dining options. Want to experience the real Antigua? Make sure to include a stop into their largest town - St. John's. I’ve been to this gem, and loved it!
Anguilla:
Looking for that non-touristy island? Anguilla just might be the island for you! Anguilla has kind people, soft-sand beaches, amazing food and a wide range of accommodations to choose from. If you’ve got any mobility issues, this is probably not the island for you as many properties are not mobility friendly.
Barbados:
This island has some of the best nightlife in the Caribbean. There are nightclubs in "The Gap.” The famous Friday nights at Oistin’s seaside market is perfect for music, amazing food & a good time. Oistin’s is an experience you don't want to miss! There are several popular land & water activities on this fabulous southern island, from body surfing, hiking and golfing. Other attractions include the Botanical Gardens and Garrison District commonly known as “The Garrison,” a place history buffs often visit. Bridgetown is their capital and also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Barbados has several 4+ accommodation choices for your personal taste.
Bermuda:
Bermuda is technically not in the Caribbean, however still a very much notable island to visit. With it's utterly pristine pink beaches & adorable pastel-colored buildings how could you not want to visit this island? Bermuda also holds some of the best island golf in the Caribbean. May to October are their busiest months & warmest weather. You could visit in March or April for a bit better pricing, however keep in mind it’s not quite warm enough yet for swimming.
Bonaire:
Although they do have some rocky beaches, they also have some really nice beaches. There’s plenty of wildlife such as donkey’s, flamingo’s, iguanas & goats including a donkey sanctuary! You can even check out Mangrove Kayaking at Lac Bay. Plus fantastic diving, wind & kite surfing. They also have the first nature sanctuary called Washington Slagbaai National Park. If you love animals, unspoiled nature and beaches - this is where you want to go. OH and food trucks have become more and more popular, with good reason.
British Virgin Islands:
Truly is an untouched paradise It’s known as “Nature’s little Secrets." They also happen to have some of the best beach bars in the Caribbean! Between Jost van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, etc. you can find a the right atmosphere for YOU. Looking for great surfing? Head over to Apple Bay in Tortola. The British Virgin Islands are pretty expensive to travel too so it’s less uncrowded.
Curacao:
The North coast is rugged, while the South side boasts crystal clear calm waters that are perfect for current-free swimming & snorkeling. The delicious fusion of Caribbean meets European foods with a very diverse local population. This year round sunny weather island with an average temp of 85 degrees. The home of Curacao Liqueur, so grab a blue colored cocktail, enjoy some live music and check out this lovely island!
Dominica:
Not a fan of big crowds when vacationing? This hidden gem might just be the ticket! With their boutique accommodations that are tucked in the jungles and perched on ocean-view cliffs. Two thirds are made up of rainforests, thus the reason it's called nature island. People go here not just for fun n’ sun, but more of an active experience. Ride horseback through the forest, hike the national parks, bird watch & MORE. The Champagne Reef is also a must not miss for a fabulous snorkel/dive adventure!
Grenada:
Like many islands in the Caribbean boasting lovely beaches, Grenada is no exception in fact they have some that are considered spectacular! One that is lesser known in the Caribbean, is Grand Anse Beach which often makes "Top Beaches" lists. Not every island in the Caribbean is ideal for hiking, however with the rain forests and National Parks in Grenada are ideal island for those seeking a bit more than just the beach life. For a cool experience for either a shallow dive or snorkel, check out Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park. For more advanced divers in deep dives (at almost 600 ft), check out the Bianca C which is the largest Wreck in the Caribbean known as “The Titanic of the Caribbean.” Love spices? Make sure to pick a few up while here along with some rum!
If any of these islands spark your curiosity together we can determine which island is right for your next trip!