TRAVEL TIPS

1) Health:

If you plan to travel off the resort property or are heading to an off-the-beaten track destination, visit a travel medicine specialist four to six weeks before departure to ensure that your immunisations and vaccinations are up to date.

2) Food and water:

Reduce the risk of contracting an illness by drinking bottled water or carbonated drinks from cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks and ice cubes. Cook food thoroughly and don’t eat anything purchased from street vendors. Resorts often provide bottled water and use treated water in food preparation.

3) Sun:

Carry waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply throughout the day, even on cloudy days.

4) Insects:

Many diseases found in the Caribbean, like dengue fever, are spread through insect bites. If you visit an outdoors area where insects congregate, ensure that you take along a bug repellent and wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat.

5) Crime:

Some islands, especially those experiencing poverty and drug trafficking, are prone to crime. Leave your valuables at home or use the hotel safe. Don’t take valuables to the beach or when you go out at night, and never leave them in a rental car.

6) Cultural sensitivity:

Each Caribbean island has a unique cultural heritage and norms. Women who are interested in topless sunbathing should head to an island that has a continental European history. If hooking up is in your plan, bring condoms and beware of scams whereby potential “boyfriends” are really only interested in any money that visitors may have brought along. Jamaica, Barbados and the Cayman Islands have earned a reputation for being averse to homosexuals and lesbians, while French, Dutch and American islands – especially St Barts – welcome gay couples and singles. | www.travelchannel.com