Choosing a Caribbean Island - Part 3
(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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To access these Islands, you’ll either change planes or less frequent direct flights
Martinique:
Martinique is one of very few islands in the Caribbean that offers an ideal hiking experience. Those that want a bit more than just the beach bum experience, Martinique might just be that island. With nearly half the island forested either by National Park or protected land, it's a hikers haven. You'll experience a melting pot of cuisine choices to the latest Parisian designs to the Saturday morning spice market which is not to be missed. From incredible beaches to the beautiful flora this little island you’re sure to love!
St. Barthelemy:
This island is definitely a celebrity hotspot with luxury on every corner. There is a reason it draws the stars in, it’s incredibly beautiful. It’s photo-worthy beaches are Instagram material. With it's French influence you'll have a good variety of delicious food. Looking for a little nightlife party action? Check out Nikki Beach! The best time to visit is May & June, as the weather will be near perfect. Is it pricey here, yes ... but those that visit never regret doing so.
St. Vincent & the Grenadines:
Finding yourself amongst these islands you can enjoy hiking La Soufriere which rises more than 4,000 feet above sea level and is considered one of the most spectacular peaks in the Caribbean. Are you a birder? You'll want to head over to Vermont Nature Trail. Love waterfalls? The Falls of Baleine are one of St. Vincent's most popular visits along with Dark View Falls which is actually an unusual set of two falls. Are you brave enough to visit one of the islands most eerie and fascinating sites, check out the bat cave in Buccament Bay. Or if you’re like me, a black sand beach is more your speed. They boast some of the best in the Caribbean!
St. Kitts & Nevis:
There islands you often hear of an having been there I can speak to their incredible beauty! It's one of those islands that while very established with tourism because they are not overly built up they give you that authentic Caribbean feel. Southern Caribbean does tend to be more expensive, however this little gem isn't quite as pricey as some of the neighboring islands. The locals really make this island enjoyable, as I'm the first to admit not all locals are as friendly - here you can tell they are genuinely happily thrilled you are visiting them. Which that welcoming feeling, helps enhance your experience. Nevis offers beautiful isolation and they have more monkeys than people! Great for couples & families alike, you'll not be disappointed!
St. Lucia:
Is what I like to call "The Hawaii of the Caribbean". With that, there is certainly still only one Hawaii ... however the lush, mountainous terrain you'll find here makes it a tropical paradise. It's here you'll find the world's only drive-in volcano, called Sulphur Springs. Gros Islet puts on a street party every Friday, and let me tell you if you love dancing I recommend checking this out! This island is mostly sunny year round, with limited rain as hurricanes tend to pass them on. You’ll find some of the most unique accommodations here, with Jade Mountain, Anse Chastanet & Ladera featuring open-air 3 walled suites.
Turks & Caicos Islands:
Is home to undeniably incredibly powder sand beaches with just a hint of pink. The sand is so soft between your toes with calm and inviting crystal clear waters. Grace Bay in particular is one of the best beaches in the world! Great snorkeling/diving with the third largest barrier reef in the world. You'll have opportunities to see turtles, manta rays, whales, reef sharks & countless tropical fish. Want to feed some Iguanas? On Iguana island you can, and they love Doritos! Interested in staying on a private island? Here you can at COMO Parrot Cay! This isn’t the island for all-inclusive. There are several amazing restaurants and this is one of the hottest islands for culinary delights. English speaking and US Dollar using. Beach loving, water enthusiast, foodies - this is your island!
Hurricanes Irma & Maria Damages - 2017
Islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Martin/Sint Maarten, Anguilla, Dominica, U.S. Virgin Islands and Barbuda were ravished by Hurricane Irma and/or Hurricane Maria. Most of these islands are well on their way to becoming once again hot spots! Some more than others. We can discuss this together in further details, depending on your island interests as the islands will continually progress back into “normal.” What's worth mentioning though is - many locals and businesses' livelihood depend on the steady return of tourists. Visiting these islands can give you a unique look into the raw power of nature while helping these incredibly beautiful islands come back into their full glory with tourism!
If any of these islands spark your curiosity together we can determine which island is right for your next trip!