Caribbean guide 2026

Rugged

Treasured

Myths,

Where

Dreamy

Vibrant

madeformemories CARIBBEAN

A shared history, traditions, food, music and beliefs – and a

Local street art, craft workshops, culinary excellence and steel drums

Asian curries, Italian wood-brick pizzas, Latin American stews... and more

Environmentally positive greenthemes and local benefits

Swimming with pigs, turtle conservation, rainforest tours

St. Vincent and Grenadines

Discover a sunblessed chain of 32 islands and cays

Festivals and Celebrations

Proud traditions kept alive in spectacular and colourway ways

42 CTO Chapter UK and Europe

Members List

Directory of destinations and services

44 Airlines and Tour Operators

Carriers and companies that can help you plan a Caribbean getaway

46 Map

Exclusivity on tap at upmarket hotels, boutique retreats and villas

Playing or watching: golf, tennis, cricket, baseball and horse racing

The Caribbean Tourism Organisation UK & Europe – known as the CTO Chapter UK & Europe – was established to promote, encourage, foster and develop tourism to the Caribbean from the

Get to know the geography and locations of the region’s destinations Sponsored

Kingdom and Europe, with the aim of communicating a strong and positive image of the Caribbean and educating those working in the travel industry about the Caribbean. The CTO Chapter UK & Europe is a public and private sector membership association, led by a board of directors. The organisation is registered at Companies House 4322568. For more information please contact digital@caribbean.co.uk or visit www.caribbean.co.uk and follow us on all social media channels.

Published by Selling Travel, BMI Publishing Ltd © 2026. Publisher: Sally Parker, Editorial Director: Steve Hartridge, Writers: Beverley Fearis, Charlotte Flach, Peter Ellegard, Stuart Forster, Steve Hartridge, Lauren Jarvis. Designers: Matt Bonner, Caitlan Francis, Colette Denham, Liz Paterson, Production: Clare Hunter, Steve Hunter, Managing Director: Matt Bonner | Images: CTO Chapter UK & Europe and members, iStock.com, bigstockphoto.com and Unsplash. Main front cover image: Curacao. Inset, from left: 1.Curacao 2.Coco Bay Resort, Antigua ©WMAG R6 Watkins Multimedia 3.St Kitts 4.bigstockphoto.com 5.Dominican Republic.

20 years of experience crafting unforgettable Caribbean holidays

it’sgetting HOTTER!

Whether you are looking for a cultural escape, an immersive adventure, a wellness break or a sportsthemed holiday, there’s plenty that’s new in the Caribbean

Blessed with spectacular lush landscapes, first-class resorts, an unmatchable blend of cultural, religious and historical influences and excellent flight connectivity from the UK, the Caribbean is a premier choice for British travellers.

It may be connected by a single name tag – “The Caribbean” – but this is a wonderfully diverse and eclectic collection of destinations. Its appeal and many draw cards today are the result of centuries of colonisation, immigration and historical events that have resulted in an intoxicating fusion of ethno-diverse influences.

From lively countries that know how to celebrate their roots with spectacular carnivals and street parties to quiet and exclusive private island retreats, there’s an island – and a warm Caribbean welcome –for every kind of traveller.

The Caribbean has it covered whether you’re flying solo, visiting on a romanceenhancing break, holidaying with friends or family, travelling for a sports-themed break or bonding on a multi-generational trip.

COMMUNITY VALUE

“Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the region through people-to-people programmes and sustainable initiatives such as farmto-table and reef-to-table experiences, actively helping to preserve our planet while engaging with local communities,” says Florian ValmyDevillers, Business Development Director for the Caribbean Tourism Organisation Chapter UK and Europe.

“The Caribbean belongs on every traveller’s bucket list in 2026”, says Florian ValmyDevillers, Business Development Director for the Caribbean Tourism Organisation Chapter UK and Europe.

“With English, French, Spanish and Dutch widely spoken, the Caribbean opens its doors to the world, inviting travellers to explore, connect, and engage in a truly meaningful and unforgettable way.”

Known for its fantastic-value stays, the Dominican Republic is a firm favourite, while exotic Puerto Rico is attracting visitors keen to dive into its culture. Elsewhere, The Bahamas is surging in popularity and Jamaica continues to welcome fun- and sun-seekers.

COME FLY WITH ME

With flight times under 10 hours, the Caribbean is a win for travellers looking for the excitement, glamour and weather that a long-haul holiday brings but without an excessively long journey.

New airline partnerships and expanded flight routes from Europe and U.S. cities

Beach scene in Grenada

Jamaica Carnival

“New airline partnerships and expanded flight routes from Europe and U.S. cities are making it easier than ever to reach smaller islands”

are making it easier than ever to reach even the smaller islands. For visitors keen to island hop, Virgin Atlantic flies from London Heathrow and Manchester to Barbados, and offers inter-island flights to Grenada and St. Vincent. In addition, interCaribbean Airways and Caribbean Airlines provide a range of inter-island services, linking key hubs across the region and offering convenient access to multiple destinations.

British Airways flies direct from the UK to Caribbean destinations including Antigua, Barbados, the Dominican Republic and Saint Lucia, adding additional flights from London Gatwick to Jamaica in summer, and in December 2025 BermudAir launched AnguillAir, which offers non-stop flights to Anguilla from Boston, Baltimore/Washington and Newark in the U.S.

CULTURE IS CALLING

While the Caribbean’s luxe resorts have long tempted guests to stay on site with their chef-designed cuisine and line-up of exciting watersports and activities, many are adding cultural experiences into the mix,

ensuring visitors return home with a deeper understanding of the destination.

The design of the new Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton in the Dominican Republic draws inspiration from the island’s Indigenous TaÍno culture, a subgroup of the larger Arawak group, with guests enjoying traditional arts, crafts and dance classes.

In Anguilla, which a number of tribes, including the Arawak, have called home, Quest Experiences curates cultural

excursions such as the new Flavours of Anguilla package, which include a handson cookery class, a rum tasting and an immersive dining tour.

THE MAIN EVENT

The “Taylor Swift Effect”, which saw the artist’s Eras Tour in 2024/25 generate a massive economic boost and increase in tourism to those cities she performed in, has its Caribbean counterpart in Bad Bunny, whose 30-date residency in his native Puerto Rico drew an estimated 600,000 visitors to watch him perform in San Juan.

The Caribbean’s music and festivals are legendary, with the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival and the St. Kitts Music Festival both hosting international artists, along with local cultural and community events.

ALL AT SEA

As the world’s number one cruise destination, the Caribbean welcomes a huge number of ships each year, ranging from the biggest vessel currently sailing the oceans, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas with more than 5,000 guests, to small explorer ships such as Ponant’s Le Champlain with just 184 passengers.

Many Caribbean cruises leave from Miami in Florida and visit the major islands, while luxury small-ship lines including

Zemi Miches Tiano Cultural Show, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Colour and music in St. Kitts

Blue waters in Curacao

Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences is an island sanctuary where Mediterranean charm meets Caribbean elegance. Discover timeless sophistication, breathtaking views, and moments crafted for indulgence. From romantic escapes to family retreats, every stay is an unforgettable journey into luxury.

SeaDream Yacht Club and Explora Journeys operate intimate fleets with a “private yacht” feel, which can dock at smaller ports and hidden harbours. Star Seeker, the newest yacht from Windstar Cruises, has just 112 spacious suites, and will spend its inaugural season cruising the Windward Islands.

The JamRock Reggae Cruise (November 11-16, 2026) will set sail from Miami to the historic port of Falmouth and Ocho Rios in Jamaica on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Joy, promising five nights of great music, yoga and meditation.

OFF-GRID ISLES

With travellers and destinations becoming more aware of the impact of over-tourism, some of the Caribbean’s lesser-known islands are having their day in the sun.

Seeking out tailor-made itineraries and heading off the well-trodden paths offers a more authentic and richer travel experience, along with untouched landscapes and encounters with locals.

For example, Dominica, Curaçao, Tobago, Nevis, Guadeloupe and Guyana all offer unparalleled outdoor adventures and natural beauty. Home to the Indigenous Kalinago people, Dominica is a wonderland of sparkling waterfalls, rugged volcanic peaks and the second-largest hot spring on the planet, Boiling Lake, the jewel of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

“It may be connected by a single name tag – ‘The Caribbean’ – but this is a wonderfully diverse and eclectic collction of destinations”

BodyHoliday in Saint Lucia. Havens like Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort at Kittitian Hill in St. Kitts and Nevis provide the perfect antidote to our digitally overloaded lives, and the Sanctuary’s new Mango Walk Spa offers outdoor herbal bath experiences in the rainforest. Meanwhile, in a first of its kind, Puerto Rico has launched a partnership with meditation app Calm to provide an immersive meditative audio experience, with soundscapes inspired by the nature and spirit of the destination.

THE JOY OF GOING SOLO

that springs to mind for a solo adventure. But with so many activities on offer from hiking to kayaking, playing golf or pickle ball or signing up for a yoga retreat, single travellers will find plenty to occupy their “metime”, and endless opportunities to connect with like-minded visitors and locals.

Super friendly with a beautiful beach, Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos offers a safe, chilled space for a solo sojourn.

New resorts to try here include the first Andaz property in the Caribbean, plus three IHG resorts – InterContinental, Kimpton and Indigo, which are due to open by 2027.

In 2026, the spring will be accessible via the world’s longest detachable cable car, which will swoop visitors the four miles across the Roseau Valley in just 20 minutes.

AND BREATHE…

Its laid-back island vibe makes the Caribbean a great choice for a relaxing escape, but a new wave of mindful retreats and elevated spa experiences are taking self-care to another level, with the region becoming a go-to for a “Calmcation”.

Rather than checking off every bucketlist activity or sight, visitors are opting to slow down and reconnect with themselves on transformational programmes at world-leading wellness resorts like the

With fabulous family-friendly resorts and endless romantic hotels and restaurants, the Caribbean may not be the first place

At luxury Wymara Resort and Villas, a new wellness programme puts a focus on mindfulness, nutrition, and nature. Guests can take part in stand-up paddleboard yoga, sound bath meditation and a HIIT workout.

Couple with cocktails, Saint Lucia

Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort, St.Kitts

The Caribbean is the world’s top cruise destination

OLLIE JONES

Ahh… Jamaica. It’s so much more than just a beach holiday.

It’s where countless exhilarating attractions from waterfalls to dancehalls inspire a renewed sense of adventure while making you feel completely relaxed.

Best to think of Jamaica less like a place and more like a vibe. With a spirit of positivity that will carry you from one unforgettable experience to the next.

Indulge in the bold and savoury flavours of our culture.

Sink your toes into endless stretches of white sand beaches.

Cool off in our misty Blue Mountains.

Connect with people who will make you feel part of something greater than yourself.

That’s the beauty of Jamaica.

It feels both uncharted and familiar, thrilling and comforting, lively and laid-back.

Whether you’re planning a family holiday, travelling with friends or getting away with that special someone, there’s so much more to explore here, and there’s something for everyone.

That’s Jamaica.

It’s a vibe and it’s a holiday—all at once. Come see for yourself.

THE HILLS headfor

From rugged mountain peaks to verdant rainforests and vibrant coral reefs, you’ll discover inspiring landscapes ripe for adventure throughout the Caribbean

While the Caribbean’s renowned laid-back vibe is perfect for a relaxing break, adventure lovers will find plenty of exciting escapades to enjoy beyond the beach – or on it

IN IT FOR THE THRILLS

From deep-sea fishing and dolphin encounters to catamaran sails, canopy tours, mountain biking and dune buggy off-roading excursions, there is plenty to keep the adventurous at heart entertained.

Top of many a bucket list, a horse ride along a perfect curve of soft, white sand is a dream pursuit. In Anguilla, Seaside Stables offers guided excursions in Cove Bay and the chance to ride the horses into the warm, turquoise sea.

Barbados is a playground for thrill-seekers, so leave your sun lounger behind and sign up for one of the many fun water sports on offer, including fly boarding, paddle boarding and kite boarding.

Try paragliding behind a speedboat offshore or brave an exhilarating hydro-flight experience, as you’re propelled over the

ocean with Jet Blade Barbados. And if you think Bermuda is all about the golf – which is undeniably fabulous – it’s time to think again. The island’s rocky coast makes it a premier spot for cliff climbing. Plus, a historic 22-mile Railway Trail is now a scenic biking route yielding epic ocean views, while the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club offers courses for all levels at its Sailing Academy, with the lessons held in Hamilton’s marina, a stone’s throw from bustling Front Street.

HEAD TO NEW HEIGHTS

From Jamaica’s highest point, the 2,256-metre-high Blue Mountain Peak, to La Grande Soufrière, an active stratovolcano which rises to 1,467-metres on the island of Guadeloupe, the Caribbean has some spectacular hiking routes through lush forests, offering room to breathe and enjoy dazzling vistas.

Nevis, which lies just two miles from neighbouring St. Kitts, has several stunning walking trails, including the magical Russell’s Rest, which leads past plunging waterfalls and towering trees, and the challenging fourhour round-trip to the summit of Nevis Peak,

which rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the island.

On Saint Lucia, the most popular hike on the island is the trek up Gros Piton, the taller of Saint Lucia’s twin Pitons. It stands at an impressive 2,619 feet above sea. Walkers can go unaccompanied or with a guide, and there are a couple of stop points on the way to the top (or bottom).

Zip lining is a popular pursuit in Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Antigua, and on Tortola, in The British Virgin Islands, the Original Virgin Canopy Tour sees visitors soar through the forest high in the hills above Road Town Harbour, as yachts glisten in the bay.

Those with a head for heights can also join a thrilling canyoning adventure with Manawa

Ziplining in Jamaica

Dune buggies in Curacao

OLLIE JONES

Horseback riding in St. Kitts

Cliff walking in Bermuda

“Zip lining is a fun pursuit in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Antigua and on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands”

in the Pitons du Carbet range on Martinique, where intrepid visitors abseil, jump and rappel through the canyons.

Or for a more casual hike, the island’s Couleuvre River Waterfall Trail leads to Martinique’s highest falls, which plunge from 120 metres above.

INTO THE BLUE

The reefs, lagoons and dramatic underwater landscapes of the Caribbean are a magnet for divers, snorkelers and lovers of marine life. With 365 dive sites – one for every day of the year – the trio of Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman) are as alluring below the waves as

above, with dramatic dropoffs, labyrinthine caves, Little Cayman’s Bloody Ball Wall – a vertical coral wall that plunges to 1828.8 metres – and wrecks including Grand Cayman’s USS Kittiwake.

Known as one of the Caribbean’s best dive destinations, Bonaire’s fringing reef is teeming with tropical fish, turtles, rays and seahorses and diving or snorkelling in the Bonaire National Marine Park protects the island’s marine marvels, seagrass, mangroves and 60-plus species of coral.

Forest Preservation

Head out on to the water around Barbuda with Adventure Antigua and there’s the possibility of seeing bottlenose dolphins year-round and humpback whales from February until May, while orcas have been spotted in the waters around Martinique and Saint Vincent.

And from March to September, visitors to Tobago have a good chance of watching endangered leatherback turtles coming ashore to nest on a tour with local community-based conservation group, Save Our Sea Turtles Tobago.

The Boiling Lake is a flooded fumarole located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a World Heritage Site on the island of Dominica. Around 6.5 miles east of the capital Roseau, the lake is filled with bubbling, greyish-blue water that is often enveloped in a cloud of vapour. There is no road leading directly to the lake, which is accessible via the Boiling Lake Trail, an 8.1-mile (13 km) hike between the lake and the nearest road.

The hike can be divided into three parts that take about one hour each. But you can

now also whizz to the top on a new cable car for the same spectacular views as those who strapped on their sturdiest walking boots for the long climb.

CULTURAL ADVENTURES

While geographically and historically connected, the Caribbean’s diverse destinations have been shaped by an array of cultures and countries. Choosing local and Indigenous operators and guides for

“Nevis, just two miles from neigbouring St. Kitts, has several stunning walking trails”

your Caribbean adventure offers a deeper dive into the region’s rich cultural history, while helping to keep traditions alive.

In Belize, visitors can explore the UNESCOrecognised Garifuna culture on a tour of the traditional fishing village of Hopkins with adventure operator, Untame Belize.

Experience the drumming, clothes, art and cuisine at the heart of the community while learning about the history of the Garifuna; the descendants of enslaved Africans and the Indigenous Kalinago people.

Tours often begin with a traditional fishing expedition with a local guide, where you learn age-old techniques and have the opportunity to catch your own fish.

Heading to Grenada, Carriacou or Petite Martinique? Jambalaya Sailing Charters and Savvy Sailing Adventure offer cruises on traditional hand-built Carriacou sloops, working with local ship builders to preserve more than 200 years of craftsmanship.

One of the largest cave systems in the Caribbean, with 1.5 miles of underground caverns, Conch Bar Caves in the Turks and Caicos Islands has revealed evidence of the Lucayan Indians, who migrated here long before the arrival of the Spanish.

TAKE A DEEP DIVE

The annual Grenada Dive and Conservation Festival brings together divers and conservationists for one week each autumn to explore the island’s most spectacular dives sites and engage in exciting environmental protection projects. Participants take part in coral restoration, mangrove planting, beach clean-ups and guided dives which showcase Grenada’s incredible marine biodiversity. puregrenada.com

Breaching humpback whales in Bermuda

La Grande Soufrière, Guadeloupe

Diving in Grenada

Kayaking in Anguilla

Tucked along the sun-drenched southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas is an award-winning destination within a destination - a world of luxury, leisure, and endless discovery. Spanning over 7,000 tropical acres, this legendary resort has been welcoming discerning travellers for more than five decades, setting the standard for Caribbean elegance and adventure.

Unparalleled Accommodation

THE WORLD’S MOST CELEBRATED RESORT

World-Class Experiences

Days at Casa de Campo are filled with adventure and indulgence. Guests can unwind at the Dominican Republic’s only private beach, home to the sophisticated Minitas Beach Club & Restaurant and an adults-only infinity pool. Water sports, family pools, and beachfront relaxation complete the picture of tropical perfection.

Casa de Campo offers 315 spacious guest rooms and suites surrounded by lush gardens and sweeping golf course views. Each includes a complimentary 4-passenger golf cart - the perfect way to explore the resort’s vast grounds.

The 58 new Premier Suites redefine comfort and exclusivity, featuring bespoke amenities such as a private concierge, nightly turndown service, a pillow and aromatherapy menu, and access to the chic Premier Club Lounge. Guests can choose from Junior, One, and Two-Bedroom Suites, or the ultra-exclusive Premier Presidential Suite, offering up to three bedrooms of pure luxury.

Golfers will find paradise here, too — with 63 holes of championship golf, including the iconic Teeth of the Dog, ranked the #1 course in the Caribbean, which is currently undergoing a $13million renovation (reopening Jan 2026).

Beyond the greens, the resort’s Equestrian Centre hosts world-class polo tournaments, while the Racquet Centre boasts 11 HarTru tennis courts, 2 padel courts, and 4 pickleball courts. For a different kind of challenge, the 250-acre Shooting Centre offers over 200 stations and a lighted Purdey 5-Stand facility.

For groups or families seeking total privacy, Casa de Campo’s Garden, Classic, Exclusive and Oceanfront Villas are unmatched. These elegant homes, ranging from three to ten bedrooms, feature private pools, maid service, and daily breakfast prepared in-villa.

and lounges, each offering distinctive global flavours.

Relax, Dine, and Discover

Casa de Campo’s newly launched Spa and Wellness Centre is a 18,000-squarefoot sanctuary blending cutting-edge technology with holistic wellness, making it the largest spa in the Caribbean. Guests can also explore eight gourmet restaurants,

The resort’s 370-berth Marina buzzes with luxury yachts, fine boutiques, a multi-screen cinema and stunning restaurants.  While Altos de Chavón, a 16th-century style Mediterranean village, delights with art galleries, gourmet eateries, a museum, and a 5,000-seat amphitheatre that has hosted stars including Jennifer Lopez, Michael Bublé and Sting.

From romantic couples, family reunions, destination weddings to grand celebrations, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas offers an unparalleled setting for every occasion — where luxury meets authenticity, and every moment feels extraordinary.

better TOGETHER

From toddlers to teens, from single parents to large multi-generational groups, families will share memorable, care-free experiences in the Caribbean

Splashing your way around a world-class waterpark, trekking through the jungle for wildlife encounters, paddling in warm shallow waters or eating banana fritters with your toes in the sand as the sun sets—a family holiday in the Caribbean will bring magical moments you’ll never forget. Throw in year-round sunshine, a laid back and friendly vibe and a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and requirements, and these nations tick all the boxes for a fabulous family getaway.

Family is central to Caribbean life, playing a big part in the region’s culture and traditions, and families will instantly feel at home here. The islands also offer many activities that appeal across the generations, from watersports and outdoor adventure to shellhunting and exploring historic houses.

BEACH TIME

The Caribbean is blessed with countless child-friendly beaches. Some of the best for young families include Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman, Eagle Beach in Aruba and Grand Anse Beach in Grenada.

Another family favourite is Saint Lucia’s five-mile Reduit Beach, which is also close to Rodney Bay Village, so perfect for popping for an ice cream or a cocktail.

Jamaica’s Puerto Seco Beach is more than just a beach, featuring an inflatable aquapark, swimming pool and water sports.

WATER BABIES

With water slides, rides, waterfalls, rapids and tidal surges across 14 pools, the Aquaventure water park at Atlantis Paradise

Island Bahamas makes for a great family day out. Thrill-seekers will love the daredevil rides of the Mayan Temple, or step inside a 100-foot underwater tunnel to see sharks, barracudas, rays, sawfish and giant grouper. The Bahamas are also home to an Exuma Island-Hopping Adventure, where you can meet the islands’ famous swimming pigs or nurse sharks at Compass Cay.

Calm, protected, clear and warm waters make for great snorkeling in many of the islands, including Curaçao, the Cayman

HOLIDAY HIGHS

Antigua’s historic military lookout point, Shirley Heights, is a favourite spot for family barbecues, where little ones will love playing among the cannons and ruins while the grownups enjoy stunning views of English Bay and beyond. For families with older teens, Sunday nights are lively and fun. Tuck into jerk chicken as the sounds of steel drums fill the air.

British Virgin Islands

Beach fun in Curacao

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas

Shirley Heights, Antigua

“Calm, protected, clear and warm waters make for great snorkeling in many Caribbean islands”

Islands and the Tobago Cays. In the British Virgin Islands, popular spots are Monkey Point on Guana Island, The Caves on Norman Island and Cistern Point on Cooper Island – all with abundant marine life.

WILD AND FREE

From wild green monkeys to giant iguanas, tortoises and peacocks, see what wildlife you can spot on a stroll through the shady pathways of the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Note the feeding times for close encounters.

Go by boat or kayak to see more iguanas at Little Water Cay, aka Iguana Island, near the Leeward area of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos – take the nature path but follow the rules.

And what child (or adult) wouldn’t be excited by the idea of a mud bath in a volcano followed by a dip in a black water pool and a waterfall experience, and all in a beautifully landscaped garden? Families enjoy this and more at Saint Lucia’s Sulphur Springs, the world’s only drive-in volcano.

“Family is central to Caribbean life, playing a big part in the region’s culture and traditions, and families instantly feel at home”

St Lucia, Sulphur springs

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, Cayman Islands

Family raft tour on Martha Brae River, Jamaica

thestu of

LEGENDS

Myths, legends, carnival characters and myriad music genres – they are intrinsic to daily life and the product of the Caribbean’s melting pot of cultures

The infectious rhythms of Goombay drums, whistles, cowbells and brass instruments

fill the air while colourful swirls of the dancing troupes’ extravagant costumes create a vibrant visual kaleidoscope.

That’s the scene each year in Freeport on Grand Bahama, at Junior Junkanoo, a children’s version of the Bahamas’ national festival recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). The participants are 18 or under, with some as young as three, but it is a fun-filled occasion for everyone.

JUNKANOO

The Caribbean’s multicultural heritage underpins many of the region’s festivals and carnivals, much of it drawn from the traditions and superstitions of the African slaves transported to work on colonial plantations.

Junkanoo’s origins date back to the 18th century, when slaves were given three days off at Christmas and celebrated their temporary freedom with dance, music and elaborate regalia. Highly-contested competitions, the main events are held in Nassau and Paradise Island on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

FOLKLORE IN FESTIVALS

Supernatural figures are a focal point of numerous Caribbean festivals and carnivals.

Moko Jumbies are masked stilt walkers and dancers representing spiritual guardians who take part in carnival processions on islands including St. Kitts, Antigua, Bermuda and Trinidad and Tobago.

At Grenada’s Spicemas each August, some revellers smear themselves with oil, molasses, soot, tar or paint to masquerade as devillike Jab Jabs, sporting horns and wearing shackles while blowing conch shells.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival features Jab Molassies, who wield whips and pitchforks, dancing to the insistent beat of steel drums. Although known as “blue devils” because of their vivid blue colour, some daub themselves in red, yellow, green and other hues.

The Caribbean’s heady fusion of cultures permeates everyday island life, from the region’s varied cuisine and customs to music

styles such as reggae, soca, calypso, salsa, merengue, steelpan and zouk.

MYTHICAL CREATURES

Mythical creatures feature in stories and legends handed down by word of mouth through the generations. Often they have Creole names and are said to live in the forests and jungles or appear at night. They include the Caribbean-wide trickster spider Anansi, from Africa’s Ashanti culture; female vampire Soucouyant, a legend on Dominica, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Guadeloupe and Trinidad and Tobago; Dominican Republic legend Bacoo; Jumbies, who live in silk cotton trees; and seductive temptress La Diablesse, from Martinique, Saint Lucia, Grenada, Dominica and Trinidad. Meanwhile, Papa Bois is a benevolent forest guardian in island folklore on Saint Lucia, Dominica, Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago among others.

The region-wide Caribbean Folklore Month each October celebrates the region’s myths and legends, and aims to preserve age-old storytelling traditions.

Junior Junkanoo in Grand Bahama

THE CAYMAN ISLANDS Caribbeanparadisein

Imagine a place where the sea sparkles like sapphire, the sand feels like silk, and every sunset paints the horizon in colours you didn’t know existed. Welcome to the Cayman Islands, a trio of tropical gems in the heart of the Caribbean, where adventure, luxury, and culture converge.

With each island comes its own distinct personality.

Grand Cayman, the largest of the three, is the cosmopolitan hub, home to everything from world-class resorts and luxury spas to awardwinning dining and the renowned Seven Mile Beach.

Caribbean, the Cayman Islands’ food scene is as diverse as its people. More than 300 restaurants, from beachside fish fries to luxury fine dining, showcase global flavours and authentic island classics such as conch fritters and cassava cake. Highlights include the Cayman Cookout each January, farm-to-table dining at Brasserie, and ocean-to-table seafood at Bacaro.

PARADISE AWAITS

and the soon-to-open Grand Hyatt, to boutique escapes like Le Soleil d’Or on Cayman Brac or private beachfront villas.

CAYMANKIND

Three islands. Endless adventure, world-class dining, and the spirit of CaymanKind. From sunrise to starlight, pure island bliss.

Cayman Brac, rugged and wild, draws adventurers to its towering limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and famous shipwreck dives. Meanwhile, Little Cayman offers serene seclusion and some of the finest diving on earth at the legendary Bloody Bay Wall.

Celebrated as the Culinary Capital of the

ocean-to-table for

And don’t miss Sunday brunch, a Caymanian tradition of endless plates and bottomless bubbles.

The islands are equally renowned for outdoor experiences. Divers can explore more than 365 sites to discover dramatic coral formations, fascinating wrecks and underwater caves, whilst on land, hiking the Mastic Trail or rock climbing on Cayman Brac reveals another side of island life.

Above all, the Cayman Islands are defined by CaymanKind, a spirit of warmth, generosity, and hospitality that ensures every visitor feels at home. Whether visiting for world-class cuisine, endless adventure, or pure relaxation, the Cayman Islands promise not just a holiday, but an experience to remember.

Divers

Accommodation ranges from five-star luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Kimpton Seafire,

Seven Mile Beach Dinner

make mine A DOUBLE

Whether couples are searching for a simple wedding package or a more novel option, a wide choice of nuptial and honeymoon options are available across the Caribbean

With many resorts introducing packages that deliver on those dreamy and aspirational ideas of the perfect tropical wedding, the Caribbean is the destination of choice for wedding parties and honeymooners.

SMALL PACKAGES

From sunset gourmet cruises to exploring atmospheric lagoons in a kayak made for two to a morning horseback ride on the beach, the Caribbean has a deck full of romance-inducing draw cards.

Couples who celebrate their wedding or honeymoon on tiny Belize will find the country is a petite treasure. Nature is a big attraction: Belize has the second largest coral reef on the planet with waters in this part of the Caribbean ranging from shades of indigo to pale turquoise. Belize has also become renowned for community engagement, where couples can submerge themselves in cultural activities with local experts.

A cookery session with the legendary Gloria of Tugucina in the Garifuna village of Hopkins is one such example. Famous for her

delicious Hudut soup, she teaches visitors how to make this recipe from scratch –with the proclamation that “the most important ingredient in cooking is love”.

In neighbouring Dangriga, visitors are welcome to watch Daytha, of the Rodriguez family, at work carving drums in the West African tradition.

Nearby, the romantic destination of the Umaya Resort and Adventure property is a perfect location for relaxation and inspiration as it is directly on the Caribbean Sea.

Honeymooners will not want to miss an indulgent couple’s massage and, after relaxing in the sun and tickling their toes in the sand, they can don a snorkel and glide amongst the reef’s colourful corals as they discover a rich array of sea-life. They will also want to book a flight over the unmissable Blue Hole located just off Belize’s coastline.

BEACH AND BEYOND

Many hotels have leaned into the romance angle with special packages for honeymoons.

For example, the Sandals Grande Antigua on Dickerson Bay lies on the most sumptuous beach on Antigua, one of 365 beaches on

the island. This all-inclusive resort is perfect for sport-loving couples, with many activities included in their package such as scuba excursions for certified divers, snorkelling equipment, Hobie Cats, paddleboards, and kayaks to name a few.

The property’s clear and calm turquoise waters are protected by offshore reefs, and with Antigua being close to Grenada, Barbados and Saint Lucia, many couples include a visit to other islands as part of their wedding or honeymoon package.

GOURMET & GLORIOUS

For its culinary charms alone, couples should consider Grenada for their nuptials or honeymoon. The port city of St. George is well known for having excellent local restaurants: the BB’s Crab Back, run by chef Brian Benjamin, being one acclaimed option.

Grenada has a plethora of resorts to choose from, including the stylish yet relaxed Spice Island Beach Resort on Grand Anse Beach. Its wedding packages suit those wanting to walk down a white-sand aisle.

Also in Grenada, a three-course candlelit dinner, Swedish massage, bottle of prosecco and handmade chocolates, plus a suite upgrade, are featured in the Calabash Hotel’s Romance Package, available April-December when booking a four-night minimum stay.

A honeymoon cruise in Saint Lucia

Learn to play the drums in Belize

“There is no residency period for marriage in Jamaica. You can tie the knot 24 hours after arrival"

Jade Mountain in Saint Lucia is another popular choice for couples seeking a special destination for their ceremony. Its intimate ceremonies are limited to one per day and honeymooners will fall in love with the stunning views over the Pitons, vistas out to sea, and a private infinity pool in their honeymoon suite. Also in Saint Lucia, couples enjoy taking a tour of Hotel Chocolat, an estate surrounded by tropical flora and fauna.

BALMY BARBADOS

Combine the soft zephyr of trade winds with sun-drenched days and turquoise seas and you’ve described Barbados. The island is also

known for its sunsets that create a sumptuous glow over its beaches. One of its top luxury resorts, Sandy Lane, is known for glamour and style. Located in an ancient mahogany grove on the Platinum Coast, the hotel’s couple’s suite is suited to those wanting to create treasured memories.

There are also two Sandals resorts on Barbados, Sandals Barbados and the all-suite Royal Sandals Barbados, offering a romantic adults-only, all-inclusive setting with fun additions such as a rooftop pool and bar, bowling alley and a variety of restaurants. Sandals offers couples everything they need to create a dreamy destination wedding

A couple at Cocobay Resort, Antigua

that is both intimate and elegant – and uniquely their own.

Then, when they want time out from the cocooned luxury of an all-inclusive resort, couples can stroll the streets of Bridgetown and try out Bajan food or take part in a signature rum tasting.

There is also the option to indulge their adventurous sides by exploring inland caves, snorkelling or visiting each unique beach on an island tour.

Many UK couples have a connection with culturally fascinating Jamaica. And several will be fans of the island’s most famous son, Bob Marley, and laid-back reggae music. For music buffs, visiting Kingston and the Bob Marley Museum makes for an entertaining side trip.

Beyond the city, the country’s lush rural areas provide a cooler excursion. For example, the remote Strawberry Hill Resort in the Blue Mountains is a special place that Bob Marley himself frequented. Sitting at

1,000 km, this historic property, which was granted by Royal Decree to Horace Walpole in 1780, is currently owned by Chris Blackwell of Island Records.

Cream tea is still served with estate-grown strawberries in the award-winning Strawberry Hill Restaurant, while relaxing walks and romantic horse rides around the property are organised for couples by the resort.

The Caves in Negril can be cordoned off for parties of two to enjoy dinner illuminated by dozens of candles and scattered with flower petals. Tucked into the limestone caves, with front row seats to the ocean lull, five courses are served in the utmost privacy.

Health-focused couples will enjoy a stay at Curtain Bluff in Antigua, which is celebrating its 64th season with new culinary wellness, ‘Mindful Menus’ and an adults-only dining concept at Sea Grape – it’s the perfect suggestion for couples seeking romance without worrying about unhealthy choices or letting their beach bodies slip.

NOVEL NUPTIALS

An overwater wedding chapel seating up to 64 guests has opened at Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort and Offshore Island in Nassau, The Bahamas, where the bride walks down the aisle as sealife darts beneath her feet. It is available for wedding and vow renewal ceremonies as part of the resort’s Aisle to Isle package, which includes customisable décor and planning services.

The new Nobu Beach Club, Barbuda, will throw open its doors in 2026 and include weddings as part of its offering. Bungalows set in lush tropical gardens on Princess Diana Beach will feature alongside hotel residences and members-only facilities for an air of exclusivity on the big day.

Make the most of Saint Lucia’s lush rainforests. Companies that arrange weddings there include Crystal Villas, which offers packages that include ministerial services and features like steel pan music, a private beach dinner and a champagne breakfast.

Sandals Barbados

A new bride in Jamaica

BERMUDA Welcometo

An island of vibrant culture, stunning beaches and year-round celebrations, Bermuda blends timeless charm with modern luxury in a setting both familiar and extraordinary

BERMUDA IS ONE OF ONE

Bermuda isn’t your typical island escape. Perched in the North Atlantic, it’s a place where friendly ‘hellos’ are the norm, and where every winding lane feels like it’s waiting to be stumbled upon. The beaches are world-famous, but the real magic is in the details: a limestone cave lit like a cathedral, a village square that hasn’t lost its historic charm or an unassuming path that delivers a view you’ll never forget. It’s an island that rewards curiosity, and whether you come for adventure or to simply slow down, Bermuda has a way of making you feel like you belong.

FIND YOUR BALANCE

Feel your best in Bermuda with signature wellness experiences, rejuvenating activities, and inspiring events. From sunrise yoga on the beach to hikes along an old rail path, and of course ocean dips, wellness is woven into daily life. Beyond the sound baths and spaces to meditate, Bermuda offers the sense of freedom in a safe, welcoming country. Here you can feel free to wander off the beaten path, explore, breathe deep in nature, and find space to simply be.

FIND YOUR CHAPTER

Every corner of the island tells a story, whether through maritime heritage, a vibrant festival or the simple joy of a sunset over the sea with a Rum Swizzle in hand. Bermuda’s spirit is one of quiet sophistication and playful adventure, where discovery and relaxation live side by side. Sail between hidden coves, walk on cedar-scented trails or share stories over dishes that blend British, Portuguese, African, Caribbean, and Native American influences into something uniquely Bermudian.

FIND YOUR EXPERIENCE

This small island packs an impressively big events calendar. Beyond pinksand beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Bermuda offers something for every kind of curious traveller. Food lovers come and enjoy speciality menus during Restaurant Weeks in January, culture enthusiasts can join J’ouvert in June, and art lovers can immerse themselves in a month-long festival each October.

With a calendar full of signature events and beloved local traditions, Bermuda celebrates year-round, giving you endless reasons to come and then come back again.

Ttherestis HISTORY

Explore centuries of cultural heritage at historically significant sites across the Caribbean

he islands and nations of the Caribbean share a rich heritage tapestry that has infused their cultures through the centuries and helped to cement their individuality.

While the region’s cultural diversity highlights the disparate traditions, food, music and beliefs brought over by the people who came from Europe, Africa and Asia, vivid reminders stand testament to the region’s colourful but sometimes troubled past.

From historic plantation houses and preserved colonial towns to imposing fortresses built to defend against seaborne invaders, the Caribbean invites visitors to explore a rich tapestry of history and heritage. These sites tell powerful stories of resilience, culture, and the people who shaped the region, offering a deeply engaging journey through time.

CULTURAL WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Besides an array of landscapes across the Caribbean listed by United Nations agency UNESCO as World Heritage Sites for their environment, several historic sites have also been inscribed for their cultural significance.

The most recent addition is Jamaica’s 17th century Port Royal, which was given World Heritage status in July 2025, a decade after the island’s Blue and John Crow Mountains were designated a mixed nature and cultural site.

Lying at the mouth of Kingston Harbour,

Port Royal was the most important English settlement in the Western Hemisphere, growing into a hub for regional and transatlantic trade, including for African slaves. Much of it now lies under water after earthquakes in 1692 and 1907.

The Colonial City of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital, was founded in 1498, six years after the arrival of Christopher Columbus. It is heralded for being the site of the first cathedral, hospital and university in the Americas as well as for the grid pattern it was laid out in, which became the model for most subsequent New World towns.

Puerto Rico’s La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site, first listed in 1983, is a series of defensive structures built over five centuries to protect the city.

On Curacao, Willemstad’s historic area, inner city and harbour are listed for the architecture

combining Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese colonial styles.

Bridgetown, Barbados, described by UNESCO as “an outstanding example of British colonial architecture consisting of a well-preserved old town built in the 17th, 18th and 19th

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Santa Domingo, Domician Republic

Bridgetown, Barbados

Dutch architecture in Punda Handelskade, Curacao

centuries”, is on the list together with historic buildings of the nearby garrison.

Antigua’s Naval Dockyard was built by slaves to protect sugar cane plantations from other European navies, its Georgian-style buildings and related archaeological sites being added to the list in 2016.

Built by the British, Brimstone Hill Fortress in St. Kitts, a national park, is acclaimed as an outstanding, well-preserved example of 17th and 18th century military architecture.

The Historic Town of St. George, Bermuda, was founded in 1612 as the earliest English settlement in the New World and is listed together with its associated fortifications built between the 17th and 20th centuries.

TENTATIVE CULTURAL WORLD HERITAGE SITES

In addition to World Heritage Sites, a roster of tentative sites has been drawn up by Caribbean nations for possible nomination – a requirement before they can be officially added to the main list by UNESCO.

Sites of cultural significance include ones in the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, Curacao, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad.

Among several tentative Dominican Republic locations are the archaeological site of La Isabela, founded by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the Americas in 1493 and the New World’s first European settlement, and the remains of the Pueblo Viejo fortress and old town founded in 1495 that are now protected as a historical national park.

Pre-colonial rock art in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is also on the tentative list,

“Several historic sites have been inscribed for their cultural significance”

along with sites across the island group and neighbouring Grenada with evidence of encounters between indigenous and European, African and South Asian cultures.

Jamaica’s Seville Heritage Park is listed for its Taino, Spanish and British archaeological sites, while Trinidad’s Banwari Trace is an archaeological site with evidence of the ancient Ortoiroid people.

Other historic sites include the world’s only hand-wound, kerosene-burning lighthouses in The Bahamas, the sugar and rum industrial heritage of Barbados, Grenada’s St. George Historic District and fortified system, Curacao’s slave plantations, Guyana’s plantation and colonial buildings, the colonial architecture of Charlestown in Nevis, the downtown Basseterre in St. Kitts, and Fort

LIVING HISTORY

Events to plan a visit around include Dominica’s Kalinago Week, an annual celebration in September of the Kalinago, the island’s indigenous people, that highlights their resilience, heritage and culture through various activities. Also, don’t miss the Holetown Festival in Barbados, a weeklong annual celebration in February that commemorates the landing of the first English settlers in 1627.

Shirley in Dominica, where a revolt by African slave soldiers over conditions in 1802 resulted in all slave soldiers in the British Empire being made free five years later.

LANDMARK BUILDINGS

They may not be on UNESCO’s radar, but the Caribbean is blessed with numerous preserved landmarks that should be on visitors’ itineraries.

Visit grand plantation houses such as Rose Hall Great House in Jamaica, the former home of the famed White Witch restored to its original splendour and preserved as a museum, and Rose Hall’s Cinnamon Hill Great House, built in 1734 and owned by Johnny Cash from the early 1970s until his death. Other plantation houses to explore include Sunbury Plantation Great House, built in 1660 and open for daily tours, and St. Nicholas Abbey Great House, both in Barbados. You can stay in some former plantation houses, among them Sweetfield Manor in Barbados, now a boutique B&B, Ottley’s Plantation in St. Kitts and Nevis’s Hermitage and Montpelier hotels.

Shipwreck in Dominican Republic

Brimstone Hill, St. Kitts

Rose Hall Great House, Jamaica

Fort Shirley, Dominica, a historic military outpost

COLOURFUL ARUBA Highlightsof

LOCAL STREET ART

Once an oil town, San Nicolas is now Aruba’s cultural capital, its streets filled with murals by local and international artists during the annual Aruba Art Fair. Walking around is like stepping into an open-air gallery, each wall telling its own story of heritage, hope and community. The murals are not just art – they’re symbols of transformation and pride, turning San Nicolas into a must-visit for those seeking the island’s creative pulse.

SOUL OF ARUBA

Beyond the beaches, Aruba is alive with creativity. From colourful murals and local crafts to culinary festivals under the stars, culture here is something you feel, taste and take with you. This small island’s cultural heartbeat runs deep, shaped by more than 100 nationalities that together create something truly unique: a Caribbean spirit with a global soul.

CULINARY CULTURE

Taste is at the heart of Aruba’s identity. The Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival brings together top chefs and beloved local eateries, from intimate chef’s tables to the open-air Pavilion in Oranjestad. It’s a celebration of Aruba’s mix of over 100 nationalities, best experienced through its food – think fresh seafood, Caribbean flavours, and European influences. Dining in Aruba means discovering the island’s story, one bite at a time.

BON BINI FESTIVAL

Every week in Oranjestad, the Bon Bini Festival offers a lively introduction to Aruba’s heritage. Expect traditional dance, live music, costumes and local bites all served in the historic courtyard of Fort Zoutman. True to its name – “bon bini” means “welcome” in Papiamento – this festival captures the genuine hospitality Aruba is known for.

CRAFT & TALENT

Aruba’s artistic energy goes beyond murals. At collectives like ArtisA, young talents and established artists share their vision through exhibitions, workshops and community projects. Visitors can join in too, learning about ceramics, painting or jewellery made from sea glass – each piece reflecting the island’s natural beauty.These initiatives keep Aruba’s traditions alive while giving them a fresh, modern voice.

DAILY CONNECTION

Culture here isn’t reserved for galleries or festivals – it’s part of daily life. From the sound of a steel drum at sunset to a shared meal of freshly caught fish, Aruba’s warmth is found in small, meaningful moments that turn guests into friends. Wander through a market, join a spontaneous domino game or stop to chat with a local and you’ll feel it: a sense of belonging that lingers long after you have arrived home.

delicious FUSION FOOD

Asian-inspired curries, Italian wood-brick pizzas, Latin American stews and more – the Caribbean plates up dishes complemented by local flavours

Rivulets of water spill from the cherubic mouth of the Greek figurine that stands tall in the centre of the white marble fountain. The pristine lawn surrounding it is flanked by beds of exotic flowers, bursting forth from fecund soil in a shock of colour. An assortment of statues from mythological fairies to comely nudes are dotted around the perimeter.

Against this flamboyant backdrop, a warm bowl of chicken curry, inspired by an Indonesian recipe, is set before diners at Palms Court Gardens, who are enjoying island food, views across the ocean and the colourful buildings of Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts.

MELTING POT

The Caribbean showcases a blend of cultures and international influences in its architecture, music, languages and, naturally, its cuisine.

The curry comes with traditional white rice, but Spaetzle, a type of central European egg pasta, is also an option for diners. It’s a simple example of something the Caribbean does very well – fusion cuisine that is the result of a multitude of ethnic influences.

For those who enjoy spice, Bombay Darbar by Nirvanna in Kingston, Jamaica, fuses the best of Indian and Chinese cuisine, with an emphasis on popular Szechuan flavours. Located just minutes from the Bob Marley Museum, visitors could combine a trip to the museum with lunch, or visit later for an extravagant dinner. The restaurant also offers an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch.

Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine in St. Martin offers a modern take on Caribbean and Indian fusion. Located in Plaza del Lago, head chef Jai spent many years in New York, which he incorporates throughout the array of unusual dishes. Toasted burrata with garlic naan joins lobster gnocchi tikka masala, while mockduck biriyani and lamb

wellington sit side by side on the menu. Vegan options are available.

Hidden above the lush canopies and abundant greenery of Soufriere, Saint Lucia, Treetop Restaurant and Bar has stunning cocktails plus stunning views.

Starters of feta bruschetta and spicy seafood soup join mains including coconut shrimp curry and fish masala, which can be enjoyed along with views of the Pitons.

WORLD CLASS

There’s no need to visit Venice or Rome for a pasta fix when all the best elements of Italian cuisine are on tap at Sunset Cove and Rainbow Room in Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

The Bahamian-Italian fusion menu showcases local seafood specials such as fresh fish and lobster. It is also known for its Angus steak, healthy salads, sandwiches and a variety of pasta dishes.

The establishment is most visited, however, for its original Italian wood-brick pizza oven, which has won accolades as the best in The Bahamas. Its sunset views also add to the appeal.

Bridgetown, Barbados, is home to Sweetfield Manor, whose restaurant Pavão serves up foods from around the globe.

Blending ingredients from different world cuisines, the restaurant emphasises the

Prickly Pear Bar and Restaurant, Anguilla

Plated food in Curacao Cocktail hour in Martinique

“The Caribbean showcases a blend of cultures in its cuisine”

BAKE AND SHARK

When

use of local produce on its menu. Risotto is topped with Moroccan lamb; coconut curry comes with whatever vegetables are in season; New York steak is finished with Argentinian chimichurri; and Asian noodles

and Italian pasta also feature.

Head to Rhodes Restaurant in Grenada, located in Calabash Hotel, for a menu crafted by chef Gary Rhodes. Its private dining experience takes place either on the beach or under a gazebo on the jetty, priced at $175 for two (food and drinks are extra).

The dishes capture flavours from across the world, such as the miso-glazed eggplant; spiced goat cheese and beet spheres; shellfish spaghetti with saffron cream; and the rosewater and coconut panna cotta.

CARIBBEAN FLAIR

Japanese and Peruvian dishes blend with Puerto Rican and coastal flavours at Mutuo Sabor Nikkei in San Juan. Red snapper,

“Risotto is topped with Moroccan lamb while coconut curry comes with whatever vegetables are in season”

mahi mahi and salmon ceviche are served alongside empanadas, bao buns and Asian soups. Rounds of sushi and nigiri offer a taste of Japan, while steak and Amazonian rice provide a Latin America twist.

Dishes from Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina and Cuba feature on Fusion Latino’s menu at the Viva Wyndham Beach resort in the Dominican Republic. Expect to find cassava, Brazilian stew, plantain, empanadas, seafood and steak.

Popular eatery Sandra’s Island Fusion Restaurant in Antigua offers up Caribbean crowd pleasers with an international twist. Near to Darkwood Beach, feast on favourites such as jerk chicken, conch curry, and grilled lobster made with fresh, local ingredients.

travelling in Trinidad, look out for the local speciality known as Bake and Shark. This seafood sandwich can be found predominantly at Maracas Beach on the northern coast, known for its palm-fringed sands and lively waves, but is also available across the island. You will also find it in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia.

Seafood in the Dominican Republic

Japanese-influenced food in Grenada

PETE JONES

GIVE something BACK

Enticing eco-adventures abound throughout the Caribbean, making it the perfect destination for a sustainable and rewarding stay

Environmentally positive “greenescapes” are available across the Caribbean, with a range of options for those looking to choose eco-friendly accommodations and activities or to sign up for experiences that directly benefit local communities.

CONSERVATION SCHEMES

Popular eco-conscious accommodation choices include staying at sustainable resorts that use solar power and local materials, or opting for more rustic, off-grid eco-lodges and campsites.

There are also a host of eco-conscious activities, such as nature tours and wildlife conservation programmes.

On Dominica, the “Nature Island”, explore the hot springs, waterfalls and geysers of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Peaks like Mount Liamuiga on St. Kitts or Gros Piton on Saint Lucia reward hikers with breathtaking ocean views. Visitors can be introduced to these natural wonders through a combination of local guides, community involvement and tours that offer education in flora and fauna conservation best practice.

Grenada is one island that showcases its natural assets with sustainability to the fore.

Locally-owned Ryde Excursions and Tours has a fleet of vibrantly-coloured electricitypowered Tuk Tuks which ferry individuals, couples or groups across its catalogue of

scenic locations, from a St. George’s city tour to beach-hopping. The Ryde the Falls drive is a top choice for nature enthusiasts, taking in the ecosystems surrounding famed waterfalls including Annandale Falls and Seven Sisters Falls.

Guided rainforest hikes, river trips and cultural exchange opportunities are on offer at Guyana’s Surama Eco-Lodge in the rainforest foothills of the Pakaraima Mountains. A celebrated community tourism success story, it is entirely owned and operated by the Indigenous Makushi people of Surama Village, helping to preserve their culture and deep understanding of the natural world, which is passed on to curious guests who wish to leave a positive impact.

SUSTAINABLE STAYS

For eco-conscious travellers, the Caribbean offers a fantastic range of planet-friendly stays, with Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort in Aruba leading the way as a Carbon Neutral, Green Globe (Platinum), Travel Life Gold and LEED Gold hotel.

Setting the sustainability standard, the resort is single-use plastic-free, supports local conservation and environmental programmes and runs a nature preserve.

On Saint Lucia, sister resorts Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain follow the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle mantra, work with local artisans, and invite guests to join local tree planting, beach and reef clean-ups.

In Antigua, Blue Water Retreat & Spa is eliminating plastics and motorised water sports, and working with local marine biologists to monitor tourism impacts on the beaches and reef.

And in The Bahamas, Sandals Resorts and the Sandals Foundation have expanded its coral restoration initiatives with a Reef Rescue Diver Speciality Course at Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island, Nassau.

St. Regis Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic is part of the Cap Cana resort community and sits under the umbrella of the Cap Cana Foundation, which protects marine and land wildlife and their habitats.

Opened in 2025, the resort also uses solar energy throughout, irrigates its golf course with 100% treated wastewater and recycles plastic before reintegrating it into the production cycle.

View of Anse Chastanet, Saint Lucia

Hiking with a guide in Arikok National Park, Aruba

THE WILD callof

Whether it is swimming with pigs, joining a turtle conservation group or spotting birdlife on a guided rainforest tour, the Caribbean is a nature lover’s delight

As she extends a slightly trembling hand, the pig eyes her suspiciously. The animal is a huge creature – a little porky, you could say – and a few times larger than this nervous tourist.

Holding a sausage in one hand and pointing her phone’s camera in the other, the cruise day-tripper leans as far as possible overboard without actually getting into the water, as the pig wades hungrily towards her.

The shallow waters around the catamaran are filled with holidaymakers who are laughing and shrieking; those who have not passed up this probable once-in-a lifetime chance to swim in the ocean up close to wild pigs. Some even move in for a cuddle.

The animals are ravenous – there’s recently been a storm and it has been a few days since they have had this much attention or been fed.

Their grunting and snatching catch some of the day-trippers unawares, but both the pigs and their gawping audience end the day satisfied with the experience – just another day of swimming with swines on Exuma in The Bahamas.

While the Caribbean is full of plenty of popular crowd-pleasers such as this one, there is an increasing demand for close encounters with the resident wildlife.

Also in The Bahamas, you can go shark cage diving, with popular locations being Tiger Beach off Grand Bahama Island and the island of Bimini. These tours are available to non-certified divers and use a floating cage with an air supply system.

UNDER THE SEAS

The Caribbean is famous for its colourful coral reefs and secluded caves which are home to a vast array of fish, starfish, and other marine creatures.

Visitors can take a peek at these denizens of the underwater world by signing up for snorkel and dive activities that cater to all levels – from nervous beginners to expert ‘Aquaman’ types.

Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef on the planet after Australia, with its reef spanning the entirety of its 185-mile coastline.

It is home to manatees, dolphins, turtles and rays, with favoured spots including the

Lighthouse Reef, Glover’s Reef and Turneffe Islands. Its renowned Great Blue Hole may look daunting from above, but is safe for swimming and a veritable treasure trove for divers keen to plumb its inky depths or search surrounding reefs for sharks, spotted eagle rays and tropical fish.

In Grenada, 75 submerged artworks in the Jason deCaires Taylor’s Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park are nurturing a thriving habitat for marine life.

The 32 islands and cays of Saint Vincent and The Grenadines offer an underwater paradise for snorkellers and divers and protected nesting sites for sea turtles in Tobago Cays Marine Park.

In Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund runs citizen science projects and coral restoration programmes to protect and regenerate the reef.

In the Dominican Republic, look out for humpback whales in Samaná Bay from January to March, which is one of the best spots in the Caribbean for sightings of the giant mammals.

These are also the best months for whale watching in Turks and Caicos, when humpbacks swim through the Turks Island Passage and give birth at Salt Cay, a small island near Grand Turk.

Reef conservation projects which involve tourists are growing in popularity. In

Blue Hole, Belize

Bio-bay night boat and kayak tour in Puerto Rico

“Top spots for twitchers include Trinidad and Tobago for its high bird diversity, including the must-see scarlet ibis”

Curaçao, for example, visitors can dive or snorkel at nursery sites, helping to “outplant” coral fragments, with an option to adopt coral trees to contribute to conservation even after their holiday. Several local dive centres and CLEAR Caribbean offer this hands-on approach.

FROM BAY TO BEACH

Electric boats and night-time tours in various Caribbean destinations, such as the Cayman Islands, are making wildlife viewing experiences on and along the water less

St. Eustatius is a small Dutch Caribbean island located in the north eastern Caribbean Sea.

It lies on the northern part of the Lesser Antilles. St. Eustatius measures 8.1 square miles (approx. 21 square kilometers) and has a population of approximately 3,200 people. It is located southeast of Saba and Northwest of St. Kitts.

Unlike many Caribbean islands, St. Eustatius does not have miles of white sandy beaches. This has protected it from mass tourism. It is a sought-after tourism destination for avid divers looking for shipwrecks to explore and has one of the most spectacular underwater marine parks in the world.

Nature lovers will also be thrilled by the variety of flora and fauna, approximatley 52 species of birds and a unique rain forest in the dormant volcano’s crater, The Quill.

The food scene on St. Eustatius is heavily influenced by American, European, and Asian cuisines.

There are many activities to enjoy on Statia.

St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation

Telephone: +599 318 2433

Email: info@statia-tourism.com www.statia-tourism.com

damaging to wildlife and their habitats.

Surface from the sea for the La Parguera bio-bay night boat and kayak tour in Puerto Rico, one of Parguera Eco Tours’ best-sellers.

Beginning with chasing the sunset on La Parguera’s most famous sandbar, a leisurely sailing follows, cruising alongside the notable houses on stilts which dot the banks. The trip culminates with a swim in the glowing bioluminescent bay, as the illuminated microorganisms swirl and surround everything they touch in a

Pigs in the sea at Big Majors Cay, Exuma, The Bahamas

tornado of pure light.

Along the coastlines of Jamaica, Barbados, Nevis and Turks and Caicos – to name but a few – dedicated conservation groups are working to involve travellers in turtle conservation through guided patrols, nest monitoring and morning hatchling releases, with programmes being packaged up as “low-impact guest experience”.

In Costa Rica, The Sea Turtle Conservancy is blending education and fun, engaging eco-volunteers to work with nesting green turtles and monitoring marked nests on the black-sand beach of Tortuguero.

Sessions run from June through October, with one-, two- and three-week packages available which include accommodation, meals and other activities such as hiking.

LAND STRIDER

Many islands, such as Saint Lucia, Dominica and Puerto Rico, feature rainforests that are rich with endemic birds, reptiles, and mammals like the Saint Lucia parrot, iguanas, monkeys and sloths in the forests.

The African green monkey is also spotted throughout the Caribbean; it is thought they were first brought to St. Kitts as pets by 17th-century French settlers.

They have thrived in the wild on the islands of St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Martin, Tortola, and Barbados. With no natural predators, there are a lot of them around – it fact, St. Kitts and Nevis is thought to have more monkeys than people. Although still shy of humans, their large populations mean most visitors on island tours usually see them scampering among the trees.

TAKING THE BIRD

Birdwatching is having a moment, with many Caribbean destinations promoting the unique species or sightings available on their home turf. Top spots for twitchers include Trinidad and Tobago for their high bird diversity – including the ‘must see’ scarlet ibis, with red feathers fringed with black tips – Cuba for its endemic species and Jamaica for its unique mountain birds.

Other notable locations are the Dominican Republic’s national parks such as Cotubanamá – look out for the national bird, the Palmcha, and raptors like hawks and eagles – and areas in Antigua and Barbuda.

Venture away from the cobbled plazas of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan to seek out the distinctive song of the native coqui tree frog in El Yunque National Park, as iridescent

hummingbirds flash through the trees. Or head to Inagua National Park in The Bahamas to see the world’s largest breeding colony of West Indian flamingoes – an estimated 40,000 birds.

NATURAL BEAUTY

Did you know that Saint Lucia, the only nation to be named for a woman, is so full of attractive features that Saint Lucian-born Nobel Laureate, Sir Derek Walcott, penned: “There’s beauty, and then there is Saint Lucia.” It counts among its natural wonders the world’s only ‘drive-in’ volcano, the dormant Soufrière, and the world’s rarest snake, the endemic Saint Lucia racer.

Flamingos in The Bahamas

Annandale Falls, Grenada

A Cuban Bee Hummingbird

Waterfall in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

ISLAND BEAUTY, NATURALLY UNFOLDING

St. Vincent and The Grenadines (SVG) is a serene collection of 32 unspoilt islands and cays, offering natural beauty, relaxed charm and authentic Caribbean warmth. With a convenient thrice-weekly Virgin Atlantic service from London Heathrow, visitors can enjoy boutique hotels, private-island retreats and effortless island hopping. Explore rainforest trails, discover colourful marine life, sail among uninhabited cays or unwind on tranquil beaches. Whether seeking an eco-adventure, romance or a simple escape, SVG delivers unforgettable experiences across its nine inhabited islands, each with its own distinct character and allure. From lively craft markets and coastal villages to quiet coves and panoramic views, SVG offers a rare blend of authenticity and natural wonder that feels beautifully removed from the everyday.

TOBAGO CAYS

Sail among uninhabited cays and snorkel with turtles in a protected marine sanctuary.

exclusive

ESCAPES

Luxury is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to the Caribbean’s upmarket hotels, boutique retreats and villas made for multigenerational getaways

The Caribbean is an everevolving region, with new luxury hotels and resorts opening their doors every year. From villa holidays to five-star hotels to resorts which offer hands-on experiences for guests, luxury comes in many forms.

CLASSIC STAYS

For exclusivity with a touch of historic charm, Hillcrest Boutique Hotel, once affectionately known as Aunt Nea’s Inn, reopened this year in the heart of St. George’s town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Bermudian estate, originally built in the 1700s, offers two impressive villas, the Main Villa and the Courtyard Villa for larger groups, or the cozy Garden Cottage for two. Alternatively, families can bed down in the Buddy Suite with two adjoining rooms. Its intimate communal spaces, as well as its expansive outdoor deck featuring a heated pool, sauna and fire pit, are conducive to relaxation and socialising with loved ones.

Reopened in late 2024 after a refurbishment, Peter Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands is a private island hideaway peppered with acres of towering tropical vegetation, five stretches of beach and lush landscaping.

The resort’s rooms, suites and villas are watched over by the pinnacle of luxury: the Falcon’s Nest villa which sits on a mountain peak with 360-degree views. Its 10,000 sq ft spa has seven treatment rooms, a saltwater pool, outdoor relaxation areas and an alfresco hot tub overlooking Big Reef Bay.

Multigenerational family groups seeking villa stays are also well catered for at Windjammer Landing’s new real estate

venture, La Belle Hélène, a luxury villa 10room development.

Overlooked by Saint Lucia’s iconic Pitons, and located directly by the Caribbean Sea, the venture blends luxury residences with resort amenities. Guests are waited on by private chefs, butlers and a concierge, while enjoying the property’s lagoon pool, fire pit lounge areas, range of sports courts and private bars. There’s also a private jetty for yacht moorings.

NATURE ESCAPES

Surrounded by 65 acres of oceanfront land and bordering a 480-acre nature preserve, Salterra is a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa in Turks and Caicos. Each dish at its Brine restaurant honours the ‘White Gold’ farmed at the adjacent salinas, a nod to the island’s past as a salt producer.

Opened in March 2025, Salterra is part of the South Caicos Coral Reef Consortium, which works closely alongside the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund, School for Field Studies and the Reef Institute (Florida) tackling stony coral tissue disease and coral bleaching.

Mt. Plaisir Estate Hotel on the northeast

coast of Trinidad has carved out a reputation for its community projects, partnering with locals on hikes, boat trips and conservation efforts. One such initiative is the protection of Leatherback Turtles, which have a large and dense nesting beach in the vicinity of the property. Accompanied by a guide, guests can witness nesting after dark and assist with releasing hatchlings. The hotel also supports the protection of the endemic pawi bird, and artisan businesses like the Grand Riviere Chocolate Company.

WHAT’S NEW?

Expectations are high in Anguilla for the new Altamer Yacht Club and Marina luxury resort, with the phase one marina infrastructure

Kayaking at The Landings, Saint Lucia

Mt. Plaisir, Trinidad and Tobago

Peter Island Yacht Club, British Virgin Islands

PETER ISLAND

projected to open in late 2026. Its 118-berth marina will have ample space for yachts up to 250 feet in length, so guests can arrive in style and park up right next to the resort. A 62-room, five-star hotel will join 58 branded residences, beachfront villas and 48 resort condominiums, all with access to a fitness centre, a spa and duty-free shopping.

The serene coastal destination of Runaway Bay will welcome the adults-only Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove in late 2026. With a focus on the guest experience, select suites in the resort will offer a range of perks

from personal butler service to access to private areas of the resort. Four à la carte restaurants, an international buffet and a Jerk Hut will please gourmets.

The Wedge Boutique Hotel is a distinctive new property set to redefine hotel accommodation in the Frigate Bay area on St. Kitts. Scheduled to open in February 2027 with 18 suites – nine two-bedroom and nine one-bedroom units – its target market will be multi-generational families seeking both comfort and convenience. Other amenities will include a rooftop bar.

“Multigenerational family groups are well catered for at Windjammer Landing’s La Belle Hélène”

ANTIGUA UPGRADE

The next three years will see popular Carlisle Bay in Antigua renovate its guest suites, public areas, dining venues and spa. The first phase, an update to half of the resort’s suites, with a full refurbishment of the Ocean, Bay and Garden Suites, was completed in October 2025. Phase two will update the Beach Balcony Suites, Beach Terrace Suites and Carlisle Suites during the resort’s closure in 2026.

Brine Restaurant, Salterra, Turks and Caicos

JAKE NAUGHTON

SKILLS thrillsand

A wealth of sporting opportunities are on offer in the Caribbean, whether playing golf and tennis, attending a horse race meeting or watching elite sports stars

Standing on the lush fairway of Punta Espada golf course’s second hole under the blazing sun, golfers launch their approach shot onto a peninsula green virtually surrounded by the clear, azure-blue Caribbean Sea.

It is one of the most iconic golf shots anywhere in the Caribbean. Indeed, the sea is ever-present on this spectacular Jack Nicklaus design, as it is on most of the nation’s golf courses.

FORE PLAY

Punta Espada is one of 26 golf courses in the Dominican Republic, all open for public play, making it one of the region’s top destinations for visiting golfers.

The Corales Puntacana Championship, played in July at Corales Golf Course in Puntacana, is one of two PGA Tour events in the Caribbean where you can watch the stars of the sport.

Las Iguanas, another signature course designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, is set

ADVENTURE JUNKIES

Get your adrenalin flowing with some extreme sports options. Grab a helmet to go cascading down the 27 waterfalls of the Dominican Republic’s Damajagua Waterfalls. Hike through the jungle to jump, slide and swim through the torrents.

Or soar high into the air on jets of water on flyboards and jetpacks in destinations such as Aruba, Jamaica and Antigua.

to open in 2026 alongside Punta Espada in Cap Cana, having been mothballed for more than 15 years. Also in Cap Cana, spring 2026 will see the opening of Moon Palace The Grand – Punta Cana, with a Greg Normandesigned golf course.

Meanwhile, Teeth of the Dog – the celebrated Casa de Campo course – opened in late 2025 after a year-long renovation.

Elsewhere, Cabot Saint Lucia’s Point Hardy Golf Club has received rave reviews since its championship course – with sweeping views of the ocean on several holes –opened on the island’s northern tip at the end of 2023.

The Caribbean has many other places to tee it up, with around 70 golf courses to choose from. Many are part of resorts where the fairways and greens are just a short buggy ride from your room.

Green fees are included for all Sandals Resorts guests in Saint Lucia and Jamaica, at Cap Estate Golf & Country Club and Upton Estate Golf & Country Club respectively.

With more than a dozen courses, the Bahamas was named the Caribbean’s best golf destination in the 2025 World Golf Awards, with the Ocean Club Golf Course on Atlantis Paradise Island listed as the region’s best golf course.

Sandy Lane on Barbados won the accolade for the Caribbean’s overall best golf resort.

Puerto Rico has nearly two dozen courses located across the island and hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Puerto Rico Open each March at the Grand Reserve Club.

Bermuda has long laid claim to being one of the world’s premier golfing destinations as it has more golf courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world: it has seven courses including Port Royal Golf Club,

home to the PGA Tour’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship each autumn. Other popular golf holiday destinations include The Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica and Bermuda, while Saint Lucia, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis and Grand Cayman also have top courses.

North Sound Golf Club, Cayman Islands

White-water rafting, Dominican Republic

PITCH UP

No sport is more synonymous with the region than cricket. The Caribbean has produced some of the world’s finest cricketers over the years – among them Gary Sobers, Viv Richards and Brian Lara.

“Baseball is a popular sport in the Caribbean, particularly in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico”

The Caribbean Premier League pitches teams from different islands in an annual Twenty20 tournament, played in August and September, with the 2026 final taking place at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. Catch an inter-island game or watch the West Indies play international teams at grounds like the Kensington Oval in Barbados, Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad, Jamaica’s Sabina Park, the Guyana National Stadium, Antigua’s Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Saint Lucia.

Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, with games played each winter.

SERVE AND VOLLEY

Guided tours are available at the Sir Viv Richards Stadium and Kensington Oval.

Baseball is also part of the region’s sporting picture, particularly in the

Some resorts offer academies and coaching programmes tailored to tennis players of all ages and abilities. Guests can also choose to have a fun game on a hotel court. Padel and pickleball are also popular options. Dominican Republic resort Casa de Campo claims to have the region’s largest racquet facility, its centre offering 13 tennis courts and eight padel and pickleball courts.

Among other resorts with extensive facilities are Four Seasons Resort Nevis; Baha Mar, The Bahamas; Carlisle Bay, Antigua; Jamaica’s Couples Swept Away; and the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Visitors looking to keep active on holiday can also go hiking, running, swimming, cycling, mountain biking and surfing.

SPORT OF KINGS

Horse racing has been a Caribbean staple since the early 1800s. Today, enthusiasts can enjoy the sport of kings in Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, Saint Lucia, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

The region’s most prized race is the Sandy Lane Gold Cup, run in March at the Barbados race track Garrison Savannah, managed by the Barbados Turf Club since 1905.

Giddy up in Saint Lucia

Beach cricket in Antigua

Pickleball at the Four Seasons, Nevis

Surfing in the British Virgin Islands

Timeto

PARTY

Traditions run proud and deep in the festivals that take place year-round in the Caribbean, making them the perfect way to get to know the nations

The melting pot of cultures, traditions, cuisine, art and music across the Caribbean is nowhere more apparent than in its joyful and colourful festivals.

From small street parties to worldrenowned carnivals that attract leading performers from all over the globe, these gatherings are inspired by the mix of indigenous, African, European and Asian influences that shape these nations.

PARTY WITH PRIDE

While the famous carnivals share common themes of freedom and resilience, the unique customs and traditions of these celebrations capture the essence of each island.

Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival, held in Port of Spain, is widely regarded as the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ with a grand street parade of sequinned costumes, feathered headwear and steel pan bands. Festivities last from just after Christmas until Ash Wednesday.

A highlight is J’ouvert – a pre-dawn celebration where participants cover themselves in paint, mud and powder in a symbolic expression of freedom.

The tradition evolved from 19th-century celebrations where ex-slaves gathered for traditional stick fighting, singing, dancing and masquerading in commemoration of their emancipation.

In Barbados, July brings the annual Crop Over Festival, a family-friendly event celebrating the end of the island’s sugar cane harvest. The proceedings include the ceremonial delivery of the last

canes, the crowning of the festival king and queen, plus lively calypso and soca competitions.

Today, the carnival ends with the Cohobblopot, showcasing both local and international performers, and the Grand Kadooment, a street parade of elaborate costumes and masquerade bands.

Antigua’s carnival spans 13 days of celebrations in July/August and marks the abolition of slavery in the British Caribbean on August 1, 1834. The streets of its capital, St. John’s, come alive with soca, calypso, steel pan, reggae music, food stalls, pageants and marching troupes. Visitors are welcome to join in the fun.

CATCH A REGATTA

You don’t have to be a sailing enthusiast to enjoy one of the Caribbean’s sailing weeks, which combine competitive racing with carnival-like celebrations bringing people together from all over the world.

In January, the BVI Spring Regatta is a week-long racing event with food stalls, live musicians, dancers on stilts and more.

Antigua Sailing Week is in late April/early May each year and attracts thousands of spectators, not just for its yacht races but also for beach games, cocktail competitions, live bands and DJs.

The Cayman Islands proudly celebrates its seafaring history with Pirates Week (actually it’s three weeks) in November, promising swashbuckling entertainment with a pirate invasion, street parades, fancy dress competitions, cultural exhibits and fireworks.

SAVOUR THE FLAVOURS

The diverse cuisine of the Caribbean is celebrated by festivals throughout the year where food and drink take centre stage. In spring, the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival invites visitors to join farm tours, tastings and cultural performances, while in August the Mobay Jerk and Food Festival pays homage to Jamaican jerk cooking with tastings and live entertainment. In May, the Grenada Chocolate Festival celebrates the unique and rich cocoa culture of the Spice Island, bringing cocoa and chocolate enthusiasts from around the world to learn about Grenada’s celebrated chocolate-making traditions.

In November, the five-day Jamaica Food

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago

Five Islands Harbour, Antigua

and Drink Festival in Kingston sees Jamaican chefs and wine experts come together for gastronomical feasts, from Michelin-quality meals to food truck samples. There’s also cooking classes, crafts and face painting.

MAKE SWEET MUSIC

Reggae, salsa, calypso, merengue, soca, jazz, techno – the diverse music of the Caribbean blends African and European influences, old and new, and is an integral part of this region’s identity. No wonder, then, that its islands host some of the world’s best music

“Crop Over Festival (July 29-August 4, 2026) is a family-friendly event that celebrates the end of Barbados’ sugar cane harvest”

festivals, each with their own unique vibe. Moonsplash Festival has been celebrating independent music on the beaches of Anguilla in March since 1991, priding itself on nurturing local talent.

Running since 1993, Reggae Sumfest in July gives a stage to up-and-coming artists but has also welcomed big names such as Ziggy Marley, Rihanna and Usher to Montego Bay, workshops and beach parties.

Aruba hosts the Soul Beach Music Festival, with live concerts, comedy shows and beach parties where the music plays into the night.

FEELING THE BLUES

The seventh edition of the Curaçao BlueSeas Festival will take place April 17-19, 2026 in Pietermaai, a district of the capital Willemstad that once belonged to the upper classes but suffered neglect. In 2000, a huge restoration of the 200-yearold mansions, workers’ houses and monuments started and Pietermaai is now a trendy neighborhood of restaurants, hotels and apartments.

Fresh produce in Jamaica

Pirates Week, Cayman Islands

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 +1 869 465 4040

 uk@stkittstourism.kn

 stkittstourism.kn

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 +1 784 456-6222

 svgta@discoversvg.com

 discoversvg.com

Tobago Tourism Agency

 +44 (0) 20 8487 9881

 Tobago@amgltd.biz

 TobagoBeyond.com

Experience Turks & Caicos

 info@myexperiencetci.com

 turksandcaicostourism.com

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