The Southern Caribbean includes the French West Indies (Martinique, Guadalupe and St. Bart’s), lush St. Lucia, Dominica, and Grenada, and the sandy ABCs (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao). December through April is peak season throughout the Caribbean. The islands of the Southern region are less traveled.
The Southern Caribbean is a truly beautiful place to explore, and what better way to do it than by taking a cruise? Cruising the Southern Caribbean offers breathtaking views, exciting activities, and plenty of time to relax. Here are five reasons why you should take a cruise in the Southern Caribbean – you won’t regret it!
Southern Caribbean beaches are unbeatable
When you cruise the Southern Caribbean, you will experience some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. From white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters to towering palm trees and lush foliage, the beaches are truly a sight to behold. Whether you’re looking to lounge around in a hammock or take an exciting hike along the coastline, you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs. And with so many islands to explore, you’ll never get bored. Don’t forget to bring along your snorkel and fins so you can explore the vibrant marine life below the surface. With a little bit of luck, you might even spot a few dolphins or sea turtles! Antigua and Aruba have soft, sandy beaches. Martinique, Guadalupe and St. Lucia are full of beautiful scenery including volcanoes and rain forests.
The food is incredible
When it comes to dining in the Southern Caribbean, you won’t be disappointed. From traditional dishes like curried goat and conch fritters to mouthwatering seafood dishes like fresh-caught lobster and shrimp, the cuisine of the Southern Caribbean is sure to please even the pickiest of palates. There are countless options to choose from, whether you’re dining out in a restaurant or enjoying local specialties at a roadside stand. Be sure to try the national dish of Trinidad and Tobago—bake and shark. This delicious sandwich is made with fried shark fillets and baked dough served with fresh vegetables, sauces, and chutney. For dessert, indulge in some of the delicious fruit sorbets, such as pineapple and guava, that can be found all over the islands. With so many wonderful options for dining in the Southern Caribbean, you’ll never go hungry!
Southern Caribbean people are friendly and welcoming
Visiting the Southern Caribbean is a great way to meet some wonderful locals. The people of the region are known for their hospitality and warm welcome. From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll be met with smiling faces and friendly conversations. Whether you’re exploring the small villages or stopping in the larger cities, you’ll find that the locals are eager to show you around and share their culture with you.
The local culture is rooted in a strong sense of community and family. People are very proud of their heritage and traditions. From the street vendors to the restaurateurs, they take pride in providing excellent service and will go out of their way to make sure you have an enjoyable experience. They’re always happy to provide recommendations on things to do and places to go.
It’s also common for locals to extend invitations for dinner or drinks. This is a great way to get to know the locals and learn more about their culture. You may even find yourself invited to join a party or two!
No matter where you go in the Southern Caribbean, you can expect friendly locals and lots of smiles. With their warm hospitality and helpful nature, it’s no wonder so many people love visiting the Southern Caribbean.
Southern Caribbean has much to see and do
The Southern Caribbean is a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and exciting activities. From the spectacular beaches of Aruba to the breathtaking rainforests of Dominica, there’s something for everyone in this corner of the Caribbean. Take part in water sports such as snorkeling, sailing, scuba diving and kayaking to explore the many underwater treasures. Go deep sea fishing or take a boat tour of the region’s many islands and reefs. On land, explore the unique colonial towns of Curacao or Barbados and visit the many museums that provide a window into the history and culture of the area. When you’re ready to relax, head to any one of the many pristine beaches for a day of sunbathing and swimming in the crystal clear waters. With so much to see and do, you won’t ever be bored on a cruise through the Southern Caribbean!
It’s an incredibly affordable way to travel
The Southern Caribbean is a great destination for those on a budget. From booking your cruise to exploring ashore, there are numerous ways to save money while still having an amazing time. Cruise lines often have amazing deals and discounts on fares, allowing you to get more bang for your buck. Onshore, you can explore some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean on a tight budget with many attractions offering discounted admission prices. Plus, there are plenty of affordable restaurants where you can enjoy local delicacies without breaking the bank. With so many ways to stretch your dollar, taking a cruise in the Southern Caribbean can be a great way to see the region without spending a fortune.
Bonaire and Curacao
These are great Southern Caribbean places for snorkeling and scuba diving. If you choose to visit Bonaire, check out the Harbour Village Resort and take advantage of their day pass.
Aruba
Aruba is home to Eagle Beach, which has very soft white sand and warm crystal clear water. It is family friendly and only a couple of mile from the cruise port. Aruba is also home to one of the top golf courses in the Caribbean. With its Robert Trent Jones design and sweeping views, even non-golfers will enjoy a visit. In addition to it’s seafood, Aruba is a great place for steak. Argentinian beef is the highlight of many restaurants in this small island.
Dominica
Dominica has a great site to see known as Trafalgar Falls, which are twin falls with an upper “Father” cascade and a lower “Mother” waterfall. This site does have a hike that will take about 20 minutes to complete but is rather easy to do. In Dominica, you can also see Boiling Lake – in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park – it is full of bubbling blue-grey water.
Martinique
Martinique has a smoldering volcano. It also has a lot of shopping to include but not limited to French luxuries and traditional Island crafts. This island has alot of rain forest trails and beaches to take advantage of. The island isn’t known for being as tourist friendly as some but I think its because they want to keep their special treasures to themselves.
