Caribbean
Located in the Caribbean Sea, the Caribbean lies off the east coast of Central America. Situated on the Caribbean plate, there are over 7,000 islands, some of them inhabited; some of them are mere islets, reefs or cays. The West Indies consists of The Antilles, (the Greater Antilles being in the North, the Lesser Antilles in the South) and the Bahamas. The chain of Caribbean islands stretch for 2,500 miles, and are 160 miles across.
Think of The Caribbean and think of soft white deserted beaches, sparkling blue waters, palm trees, twinkling stars, fresh fruit and music.
The Dominican Republic
The Dom Rep,
is a tropical island in the Greater Antilles region of The Caribbean. Tropical islands are at the mercy of tropical storms, and the Dominican Republic does not escape these. The wet season is from May to November, and occasionally there are hurricanes between June and November. Average temperatures range from 21 degrees in the mountainous regions to 25 degrees on the coast. The Dominican Republic is a beautiful place; it boasts glorious sunshine, turquoise seas, lush landscapes, white soft sands and brightly coloured coral reefs. The Island’s capital, Santo Domingo is a lively place to be, and is within easy reach from anywhere on the Island.
Jamaica
Jamaica
is the third largest of the Caribbean Islands, and also the most popular, as they speak English. Most of the major towns and cities are located on the coast, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Mandeville, Montego Bay and of course the capital, Kingston are all popular holiday destinations. The weather is hot and humid; the attitude is laid back. Spend your days lounging on the soft white sandy beaches, and spend your nights dancing to the world famous reggae beats.
Bermuda
Bermuda is renowned for its pink sandy beaches, its shallow clear waters and its coral reefs. Bermuda is really a Scuba Divers’ heaven. Explore the many wrecks and reefs off the coast at Church Bay. See the designated World Heritage site at St George, or visit the Royal Navy Dockyard and Museum. Other attractions include the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, the Botanical Gardens, the Aquarium and Zoo and the Crystal Caves with its impressive stalactites and underground saltwater pools. It is not possible to rent a car on the island, however visitors can hire scooters for use as private transport, or use public transport and get to know the locals.
Barbados
Barbados
is a flat island that rises gently to the central highland region. The highest region is called Mount Hillaby, and it stands over 1000 feet above sea level. Barbados stands in the Atlantic Sea and is East of the other Caribbean islands. Again the Island boasts tropical climates, but not as bad as the other Caribbean islands. The rainy season is from June to October. There are many things to do and see on Barbados. Make sure you visit the Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary at Christ Church, Orchid World at St. George and Harrison’s Cave at St. Thomas. There is natural beauty, tropical flowers, underwater caves and historical buildings all over Bermuda, and each and every one of them is well worth a visit.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean
is becoming a wedding Mecca. Brides-to-be are leaving the somewhat temperamental climates of the British Isles, and prefer to get married on the tropical beaches of The Caribbean. Weddings abroad are easy to arrange these days, established tour operators, such as Thomson, Sandals and Virgin, all offer wedding and honeymoon packages. With help from the bride and groom, the operators can arrange the perfect, magical day. Many couples invite family and friends over too, and are often accommodated nearby. What could be better than waking up to lapping crystal clear waters, warm sunshine and beautiful scenery on your wedding day? Oh, and as an added bonus, you are already on your honeymoon! There’s no dashing off in the middle of the reception, just relax and enjoy your special day on a magical Caribbean Island.
