Adventure, fun and bliss of a Caribbean holiday
DREAMING of being transported into a world of absolute bliss, where you can sip your rum cocktail on white sands and swim in warm, clear waters?
Then it has to be the Caribbean —a place where the beaches will leave you speechless and the calming beat of calypso drums will soothe your cares away.
The luxurious hotels here are designed to pamper guests, from swim-up bars in lagoon pools, to professional spas and fine dining restaurants to suit all tastes.
This is your time to relax in style. Opt for a suite with private sundeck, plunge pool and dazzling ocean views. Choose to laze, or go off to explore your island’s lush, tropical forests, colourful marine world or fascinating history.
Diverse experiences
IN FACT, the Caribbean offers such an amazing diversity of experiences that a holiday here can be incredible fun, as well as supremely relaxing.
Fantastic outdoor adventures range from hiking and ziplining to birdwatching and sailing.
Many hotels offer complimentary non-motorised watersports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
And if history and culture are your thing, the islands are home to ten Unesco world heritage sites, among other wonders. Their highlights include the iconic Pitons of St Lucia. Admire them from a catamaran, or burn some calories hiking these impressive peaks.
The historic city of Bridgetown, in Barbados, brims with colonial architecture and duty-free shops. Lively Havana and Trinidad, in Cuba, are full of grand avenues, vintage vehicles and pulsating rhythms.
And in the intriguing world heritage city of Santo Domingo, in the Dominican Republic, you can stroll through cobbled streets once roamed by conquistadors, passing stately colonial mansions restored to their 16th-century glory.
All-inclusive feasts
FANTASTIC food and drink is intrinsic to the lively Caribbean culture. Your taste buds will come alive as you sample the region’s sumptuous spicy feasts cooked by expert chefs in your hotel.
Or stick with more familiar gourmet delights, if you prefer — all-inclusive dining has never been so varied.
Beachside barbecues are a nightly event here, and where there’s food, the rum is usually flowing!
Music and dance are the life and soul of the Caribbean and many islands have their own particular music styles, which can be enjoyed by visitors and friendly locals alike.
Take the atmospheric Oistins Fish Fry on Friday nights in Barbados, where you can eat fantastic seafood then dance to the sounds of reggae or calypso, or just have fun watching.
What’s more, your holiday need not be confined to only one hospitable island. Hop around several instead, if you wish.
For example, a Barbados and Grenadines multi-centre holiday from Best At Travel serves up bundles of charm and character.
In beautiful, British-influenced Barbados, the Mount Gay Rum distillery is well worth a visit. Tour historic sugar cane plantations, before a fabulous sunset cruise.
In the Grenadines, hire a kayak to explore the turquoise ocean around your resort, book a dive to witness a colourful reef, or unwind with a soothing massage.
Why not treat yourself to the fun and relaxation that you deserve this winter, while falling in love with the vibrant colours of these stunning sunshine islands?