The Caribbean is probably the most popular destination in the world for honeymooners and cruise vacation. And there are many reasons to it. Dozens of beautiful islands, hundreds of picturesque islets, crystal clear turquoise or deep blue water, clear white sand beaches, unspoiled nature, biodiversity – these are just a few reasons why the Caribbean region is so popular with tourists.

LOCATION

The Caribbean is a group of more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays more than 2,000 miles (3,200 km) long. They separate the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. They stretch from the peninsula of Florida to the north coast of Venezuela on the South American continent. There are 13 sovereign states and 17 dependent territories. In 2009, the whole region had a population of about 39,169,962 people.

LANGUAGE AND RELIGION

The predominant official languages in the Caribbean are Spanish (Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Isla Margarita), English (countries such as Saint Kitts, Barbados, Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago), French (Martinique, Guadeloupe and Saint Lucia), Dutch (Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire) and Creole languages such as Haitian Creole or Papiamento. Christianity is the predominant religion in the Caribbean.

MONEY

Sovereign countries have their own currencies, dependent territories use the currency of the controlling state (such as Martinique and euro or United States Virgin Islands and US dollar). Most Caribbean countries are generally expensive, since many things have to be imported. Generally speaking, overseas territories of the US and European countries are more expensive and sovereign states such as Dominican Republic or Jamaica are cheaper.

TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE

The Caribbean tourism infrastructure is very well developed. On most islands there’s a very wide variety of accommodation. If you’re looking for cheaper accommodation, sovereign states such as Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cayman Islands or Dominica offer the best deals. Dependent territories are usually more expensive (especially overseas collectivities of France). If you’re looking for luxury destinations, some places, such as Saint Barthélemy are known for being a playground of the rich and famous (especially in the winter).

SAFETY AND HEALTH

Violent crime rarely touches tourists. However, some places are safer than others. If you want to choose a family-friendly place, choose the most affluent islands: Cayman Islands, Saint Barthélemy, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Bonaire or United States Virgin Islands. Keep in mind that in some places there can be dangerous rips – always swim at lifeguard protected beaches.

As in many tropical places, there’s a risk of malaria or dengue fever. However, don’t let the fear of these diseases reconsider your vacation plans. There’s a small risk – but it exists and you should be aware of it.

HOW TO GET THERE?

It’s extremely easy to get to most Caribbean countries by plane from the United States (usually from Florida). There are also many cruises that travel through the Caribbean.

CLIMATE AND WEATHER

The climate in the Caribbean region varies. In most places, it’s very warm all year round, there’s year-round sunshine and two seasons: dry and wet season (each lasts six months).

The average high temperatures usually stay around 84°F (29°C). In the winter, temperatures in some places can drop to 63°F (17°C) at night.

ACTIVITIES

Each island offers something different. Water sports are very popular in most places. The Caribbean region is a heaven for divers, surfers and hikers. Moreover, there are many cultural events and some places are famous for their historic sites (such as Dominican Republic).

SUMMARY

Recommended for:

• Luxury vacation
• Budget vacation (some countries)
• Honeymoon
• Short vacation (and weekend getaway)
• Nature lovers
• Divers and surfers

Advantages:

• Biodiversity
• Some places are very easy to get in because they are overseas territories of the United States or the United Kingdom
• Close to the United States
• Picture-perfect beaches
• Many places to choose from

Disadvantages:

• Some places are expensive
• Some countries are poor and there’s a higher risk of being robbed
• Hurricane season
• In some places, dangerous rips