2012-2013-Guide-To-The-Caribbean

Home , 1995 Caribbean Cup, Batabano, Chutney music, Culturama, Kubuli, Music of Anguilla

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WELCOME

WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A ROMANTIC FEATURES getaway, a fun family adventure, a culinary excursion or a cultural experience, the majes- Welcome 3 tic islands of the Caribbean cater to every One Big Kid’s Club 4-5 traveller‘s needs. The Caribbean Tourism Mother Nature Rocks 6-7 Organization welcomes you to explore and Love Blooms in the Caribbean 8 enjoy all that its 33 member countries have to Gal Pals in the Tropics 10-11 offer. Life’s a Beach 12-13 Each Caribbean country has its own soul Spa-tacular in the Caribbean 14-15 and flavour that attracts visitors from all over Rum – The Spirit of the Caribbean 16-18 the world. Boasting four languages - English, Top 10 Reasons to Visit the Caribbean 19-20 Dutch, French, and Spanish - travellers can strike up a conversation What’s Happening 21-23 with locals while strolling down streets filled with remarkable history Caribbean Map 32-33 or walking along the pink, black, white, or golden sandy beaches. They lose themselves in the smooth rich tones of reggae, the DESTINATIONS rhythmic sounds of the steel pan, and dance with passion to salsa, calypso, merengue, compas, or zouk! Anguilla 24 If trying innovative cuisine is a must on vacation, then entice Antigua & Barbuda 25 your palate with traditional Caribbean dishes such as shark and Aruba 26 bake, oil-down, pepperpot, souse, jerk chicken, goat water, The Islands of the Bahamas 27 calaloo or mouth-watering tropical treats such as coconut water, Barbados 28 mangoes, star-apples and guavas. Don’t forget to try a sip of an Belize 29 award winning rum. All local and all delicious! Bermuda 30 From luxurious five-star resorts to quaint bed and breakfast inns Bonaire 31 to guest houses or secluded villas – the Caribbean offers accom- British Virgin Islands 34 modations for every type of traveller. Cayman Islands 35 Our extravagant sailing regattas, surfing tournaments, golfing, Cuba 36 horseback riding, mountain biking, world famous baseball players, Curaçao 37 water sports, and music festivals keep visitors coming back for Dominica 38 more! Grenada 39 There is so much for you to see and experience throughout the Guadeloupe 40 region. Enjoy the Guide to the Caribbean and find out why we are Guyana 41 the vacation destination of choice for romantic getaways, honey- Haiti 42 moons, families, groups, special occasions, water sports, relaxation Jamaica 43 and so much more... Martinique 44 Whether you’re a new visitor or returning, we welcome you to Montserrat 45 the Caribbean! Nevis 46 Puerto Rico 47 Sylma Brown Bramble Saint Lucia 48 Sylma Brown Bramble St. Eustatius 49 Director St. Kitts 50 Caribbean Tourism Organization-USA, Inc. St. Maarten 51 St. Martin 52 St. Vincent & the Grenadines 53 Trinidad & Tobago 54 THE CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION Turks & Caicos Islands 55 The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is an US Virgin Islands 56 international development agency, which represents over Venezuela 57 30 Caribbean countries, and assists them to work towards Directory of CTO Preferred Partners 58-61 the development of a sustainable tourism program Getting There 62 throughout the region. The CTO has its headquarters in Barbados, and marketing offices in London and New York. The organization is active in all aspects of tourism development including training, consultancy, research, public relations and wide-ranging promotional activities. For Front Cover Photo additional brochures or for more information on the Caribbean, contact us by US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism telephone: 212-635-9530, or email: [email protected]. You may also Publisher provide feedback via our website: www.CaribbeanTravel.com. Caribbean Tourism Organization

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 03 FOR THE KIDS

One Big Kid’s Club With so many hotels specifically designed for families, plus the lure of kids clubs, waterparks, wildlife encounters and just splashing around at the beach, you’d better start planning your vacation now!

Photo Credits - Above: St. Martin Tourist Office Right: Cuba Tourist Board

TELL ANY CHILD that they’re heading off to the Caribbean on and personal with stingrays at Stingray City or to head off for a vacation and the excitement will be palpable. The region holds great mangrove safari with Cayman Sea Elements. There are the Blue charm for kids as places where there is a lot of fun activities, long Iguana Recovery Programme at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical sandy beaches, colourful fish and plenty of warm sunshine. Park and baby turtles to behold at the Boatswain’s Beach Adventure The Caribbean rises to the task of entertaining children and Park & Turtle Farm. different islands excel in different things. If you want an adventurous Puerto Rico should be on every family’s vacation radar with the eco family holiday, head to Dominica. If you want a no holds barred ToroVerde Nature Adventure Park offering kids rainforest adven- resort experience, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Jamaica and Barbados are a tures such as zip-wiring and mountain biking. Resorts like El good starting place with direct flights and family deals. Conquistador are perfect for families with its own waterpark, private In The Islands of the Bahamas, kids can enjoy the largest island and kids club. waterpark in the Caribbean at The Atlantis Resort Paradise Island. Of course one of the best ways of affording a family vacation in Many hotels have free accommodation for kids such as the Sheraton the Caribbean is to choose an all-inclusive resort that caters specifi- Nassau Beach, Wyndham and may even offer kids eat-free packages. cally for families with a sophisticated kids club and lots of water and As well as tried and tested destinations, more off-beat islands land sports. are trying hard to attract the family market such as St. Kitts and Beaches is a well-known all-inclusive resort chain in Jamaica Nevis which has a Kids ‘r’ VIPs programme for children aged 2-15 which offers families ‘luxury included’ vacations with gourmet years. This aims to get families active, learn a new sport or hobby or dining, premium brand wine and spirits, Beaches Resorts Caribbean just have fun during the summer. Activities include swimming Adventure with Sesame Street and appearances and activities from classes and cycling lessons or African drumming and dance classes. favourite Sesame Street characters, nightly entertainment and often The Caribbean is a treasure trove of wildlife adventures for kids. including watersports in the price. Beaches Boscobel Resort & Golf The Cayman Islands are a fabulous place for children to get up close Club and Beaches Sandy Bay debut new tween lounges including the

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18-and-under nightclub Liquid, Xbox 360 Game Garage and ‘Trench Town’ Lounge area. Almond Morgan Bay on Saint Lucia remains a popular choice for families with a kids club for every age group as well as four swimming pools, tennis, watersports, a spa and golf. St. James’s Club in Antigua is a fabulous four-star all-inclusive. It also has new ‘Kids Explorer’ packs. Kids can have a little backpack for the week complete with binoculars, magnifying glass, compass, fishing/butterfly net, notebook, pen and activity book where they have to spot animals, plants and birds local to Antigua, then hand it in at the end of the week for a prize. There are new family villas at sister hotel, Verandah Resort & Spa. At the all-inclusive Buccament Bay on the main island of St. Vincent, highlights include a Pat Cash Tennis Academy, a Liver- pool FC Soccer School and a Harlequin Performing Arts Academy. There’s also a Little Harlequins Kids club and Teen Club, baby- sitting and family-friendly dining. Jumby Bay in Antigua is a luxury all-inclusive private island resort, perfect for families, with its ‘Camp Jumby’ programme for 3-12 year olds, providing little ones with lots of opportunities to explore the island and get creative all under supervision.

TOP 5 TIPS: GETTING THE MOST OUT OF A FAMILY VACATION IN THE CARIBBEAN

1. Flight schedules are hugely important with kids in tow. Direct flights are best with young kids. If you have a late journey home always try and arrange late checkout or a dayroom. 2. Remember to plan ahead when you’re travelling with kids. Check out the availability of children’s meals on flights, child seats and safety belts, babysitters and kids clubs at the resort – all of these are best booked in advance. You don’t want to risk them not being available on the day you want. 3. When booking your family vacation, take the ages and likes of your children into consideration. Some resorts are better for young children and others for teenagers.4. 4. If you’re on a tight family budget, go in summer which is low season in the Caribbean – but this is school holidays for most families, and find a good all-inclusive with plenty of activities for kids. 5. If you want to take extended family on vacation to the Caribbean, or travel with another family or two, renting a villa is a good option. More upmarket villas come with staff which saves you cooking and cleaning.

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 05 NATURE

MOTHER NATURE

Natural Attractions in the Caribbean ROCKS!By Melanie Reffes BEYOND THE SUNNING, SWIMMING AND SURFING and in addition to the swank resorts, gourmet eateries and glittering casinos, the Caribbean salutes Mother Nature with a spectacular display of natural attractions. Although many of the natural wonders can be explored on your own, organized tours are advised for expert guidance in climbing mountains, kayaking rivers and photographing a riotous array of wildlife from vervet monkeys to predator birds. With a nod to ensuring the environmental sustainability of the region, Sustainable Tourism Conferences are organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and attract leading tourism planners and policymakers who focus on ways to maintain the new green economy. From bays that glow in the night and dark caves that are home to ancient bats to mineral baths and marine parks, get off the beach chair and discover a truly magnificent region under the tropical sun.

06 www.CaribbeanTravel.com NATURE

Beyond the sunning, swim- windsurf. Jamaica’s most visited natural site, ming and surfing and in addition to Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios is a full-day affair with a beach for jogging, the swank resorts, gourmet eateries crafts park, barbecue pit, cafeteria dishing up spicy snacks from jerk chicken to curried and glittering casinos, the Caribbean goat and the magnificent falls which rise to salutes Mother Nature with a spec- six-hundred feet above sea level. GONE BATTY tacular display of natural attractions. The highest point in Trinidad’s central range, Mount Tamana is also an awesome WILD BLUE YONDER bat cave. After a steep climb to the summit, hikers are spellbound by thousands of bats The crown jewel of the US National Park who live in the first chamber. More Service, El Yunque or The Caribbean adventurous travellers can explore farther National Forest is the most visited natural into the second chamber where the bats have site in Puerto Rico. An hour southeast of a wingspan measuring one foot in diameter. San Juan towards the Luquillo Mountains, Hard to imagine but estimates put the total the 28,000-acre bonanza of biodiversity is number of bats living in the chambers at half the only rainforest in the US Forest system a million including twelve different species. and chockablock with hundreds of animals As for caves, the largest of its kind in including the endangered green parrot and the Caribbean, Harrison’s Cave in Barbados, the two-note chirping coqui frog whose is a trip back in time through caverns of iconic image is on virtually every souvenir crystalized limestone and centuries old sold in the gift shop. While it is advisable to stalagmites. Recently revamped, modern hike the forest with a tour guide, nature trams take visitors into the subterranean buffs can do it alone with a sturdy pair of chambers for an up close look at cascading sneakers, water bottle and a good sense of waterfalls and pools of clear water. direction. When the clouds lift, even for a minute, the big rock called El Yunque is the NIGHT MAGIC most visible point on the horizon. Carpeted In Puerto Rico, Island Adventures Biobay in brilliant hues of green and rising dramati- of migratory whales and dolphins are Tours offers nightly adventures aboard cally from the sea, the Pitons are Saint already a big hit with tourists. By creating electrically-powered double-pontoon boats Lucia’s treasured twin peaks. Formed of the marine park, St. Maarten is taking steps that take nocturnal tourists through the lava and rock, these volcanic cones have to preserve the local environment as well as waters of Puerto Mosquito on Vieques been designated a UNESCO World Heritage enhancing sustainable tourism. Island. One of three bioluminescent bays on site and are the most photographed image on First protected by the US Government the island, Mosquito Bay is full of single- the island. A formidable challenge for even in 1948 to preserve one of the finest marine celled organisms that emit a flash of the most experienced climber, a hike up the gardens in the Caribbean Sea, Buck Island blue-green light at night when disturbed by peaks at sunrise is well worth the effort. off the north coast of St. Croix was declared predators or swimming tourists. For a Despite its small size, St. Kitts is Eden a ‘national monument’ in 1961 by President unique experience, the boats park in an area for bird watchers who, with binoculars in Kennedy. Expanded by President Clinton to of high bioluminescent concentration where hand, covet glimpses of a variety of birds include much of the water that surrounds the brave souls get the rare chance to swim with dressed up in blue, purple, yellow, and island, the park in the US Virgin Islands is a millions of these glowing critters. green. Water birds including herons, brown snorkeling nirvana with sherbet-coloured With one of the healthiest coral reef pelicans and oystercatchers can be spotted in angelfish and eagle rays. To the delight of systems in the world, it’s no wonder scuba the salt ponds and lagoons of the southeast nature buffs, leatherback and hawksbill diving at night is increasingly popular with peninsula, while towards the lower moun- turtles nest on the beach from March tourists visiting Bermuda. Triangle Diving tains, hummingbirds, doves and hawks are a through August. offers three-hour night-diving excursions for feast for the eyes. A mecca for scuba fans, Bonaire’s a spooky look at crabs, eels and octopus. National Marine Park surrounds the tiny The one-tank dives are offered every two OFF THE DEEP END island that sits in the sea east of Curaçao. weeks on Tuesdays starting in June and Opened in December 2011, St. Maarten now From the shore to the point where the water continuing through October. lays claim to its first marine park. Named reaches two-hundred feet deep, the park is the Man of War Shoal, the park includes the one of the best protected reef systems in the Caribbean. Although closely monitored, Photo Credits - Left: Mario Johnrose popular Proselyte Reef dive site named after Above: St. Maarten Tourist Bureau a 32-gun frigate that sunk in 1801. Sightings people are allowed to swim, kayak and

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 07 ROMANCE

By Melanie Reffes in the Caribbean

WHETHER YOU’RE STILL SMITTEN with an old flame, igniting couples, the Rabbi from next-door St. Maarten performs the sparks with a new one or celebrating Valentine’s Day, a bouquet ceremony and kosher food from Miami is flown in for the recep- of allures tempt in theLove Caribbean. Graced with mountain-coddledBlooms tion. coves and tie-dyed sunsets, selling passion in the Caribbean is breeze. With Cupid's arrows pointing to the islands in the sun, the SomethingThe only resort in Blue Saint Lucia to offer night snorkelling, Jalousie pressure on creativity heats up with wedding planners thinking of Plantation entices with nocturnal underwater tours where couples more innovative ways to satisfy the demands of couples from use waterproof flashlights to swim with parrot fish as they weave vows taken underwater and in palm-fringed gazebos to the their cocoons, and octopus, as they venture from their daylight always romantic sunset backdrop by the soothing Caribbean hideaways. Sea. In clear shallow water dappled by sunlight, the Underwater From Barbados and Barbuda to Saint Lucia and St. Thomas, Sculpture Park in Grenada’s Moilinere Bay is a must-see for the Caribbean is paradise found for brides and grooms saying snorkelling twosomes. Created by British sculptor Jason de their ‘I Dos’ on the beach, honeymooners in search of a Caires Taylor, the park is really a reef where tropical fish and hammock in the shade, anniversary celebrators, vow renewal lovebirds cavort side by side. The Dive Centre on Grand Anse takers and couples just wanting to get away from the nine-to-five. Beach and Aquanauts sell tours.

AThe partySuite kicks Dream off with champagne cocktails at swishy LaLuna WorthSultry strolls theon salmon-coloured Splurge beaches are a daily ritual in resort in Grenada. Romance enticements include starry nights in Barbuda. Sandy sister to Antigua, the petite sliver boasts one the cozy cottages with plunge pools and porches, yoga five-star resort, 360 degree panoramic views from the sessions and spa treatments. Lighthouse Bay Bar and the largest frigate bird sanctu- At the swank CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa in ary in the world. Ideal for lovebirds (and anyone else Anguilla, romance extras like torch lit dinners on the in a good mood), privacy is guaranteed at the beach and a floral bath soak aim to please. The resort plush nine-suite Lighthouse Bay Resort as the welcomes weddings of all faiths and for Jewish only access is via small plane or helicopter.

WeddingThe High Customs Five in the Caribbean 1. A shiny dime placed inside the bride's shoe brings wealth and prosperity. 2. If the wedding bouquet falls on the ground, the groom will cheat. 3. A sliver of rum-soaked wedding cake kept under the pillow guarantees fertility. 4. Bridesmaids wearing white chase away evil spirits. 5. Shoes tied to the back of a car show the father of the bride that the new husband is financially responsible for his daughter. www.marrycaribbean.com

08 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credit: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

LET’S GO GIRL

Gal Pals In the Tropics

GirlfriendBy Melanie Reffes GetAways

A DIAMOND MAY BE A GIRL’S BEST looking for one or doing just fine solo, a accommodations that is rolling out a regal friend but a women-only getaway is the girlfriend’s getaway is a popular rite of welcome to gal pals on vacation. Bartenders shiniest way to relax, renew and refresh. passage and a growing niche market for serve minty mojitos to the ladies at the Before you buy that fancy car, trade the travel agents selling the Caribbean. Colony Club Sunset Bar and Culture spouse for a newer model or generally Concierges arrange activities from conch behave badly, consider a girls-only vacation FAST TRACK TO FABULOUS blowing to stand-up paddling lessons. without the husband, the kids and the bills. Operating a quintet of resorts in Barbados – Nothing beats the midlife blues like a The House, Colony Club, Tamarind, Crystal BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY day on the blue sea and if you’ve already Cove and Turtle Beach – Elegant Hotels From manicures and massages to pedicures left the spouse, never had one, might be Group is a powerhouse portfolio of upscale and paraffin wax treatments, the spiffy

10 www.CaribbeanTravel.com LET’S GO GIRL

Lazule Sea Spa at Frenchman’s Reef For gal pals watching their in St. Thomas is a guilty pleasure that budgets, Comfort Suites in Turks & delivers. Showstoppers include a ‘Sea Caicos may be the best bargain in Mud’ massage for tired muscles, Provo. Not fancy yet très comfy, the ‘Caribbean Sea Scrub’ for silky hotel shuttles guests to the beach in a smooth skin and ‘Island Detox Body golf cart and entertains with Wrap’ to fix everything else that impromptu steel pan concerts in the needs fixing. lobby. The hotel is a big hit with In Nevis, Nisbet Plantation Beach visitors who appreciate the free extras Club offers retreats for those who like Wi-Fi and Miss Williams’ may want to shed a few extra pounds, famous triple layer coconut cake nutrition counseling to pick up a few served in the lobby. pointers and plenty of healthy For the ladies who appreciate the gourmet cuisine. road-less-travelled, Rosalie Bay in St. Kitts Marriott is a good bet Dominica is a twenty-eight room for girls who like to tempt lady luck eco-luxury wind and solar powered in the casino, top off their tan on the resort that is big with nature lovers Girlfriend GetAways 101 candy sand or mingle with corporate from March through October who Courtesy: www.girlgetaways.com executives in the chic Blu Seafood come to see the endangered turtles restaurant. Nearby a slew of funky that nest on the protected black sand 1. Set a date far in chardonnay and don't beach bars, the resort is brand-reliable beach. Room rates include a bountiful advance and stick to it. forget the corkscrew and 2. If anyone mentions her peanuts. with goings-on galore from meals and breakfast with fresh fruit smoothies husband or kids by name, 4. Get t-shirts made after margaritas to manicures in the and power drinks. she puts a dollar in the the trip, a far more Emerald Mist Spa and matches on the communal kitty. personal souvenir than a Photo Credits - Left: Bermuda Department of tennis court. Tourism Right: Saint Lucia Tourist Board 3. Bring your own magnet or snow globe.

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 11 BEACH

in Curaçao can be reached through the gates of the old Plantation of the same name. With clear water and a watersports shop, the beach is ideal for a snorkel or a dive although the daiquiri bar, free salsa lessons and seaside massages are the star attractions. From the ferry arriving from St. Maarten, the shore is blinding white courtesy of the talc sand that surrounds Anguilla. A two-mile strip of powder, Shoal Bay beach is the perennial favourite for bars like Uncle Ernie’s where lobster is grilled to Caribbean perfection.

PRETTY IN PINK With its cotton candy coloured beaches, Bermuda is a tempting Caribbean confection with some of the most photographed pink beaches in the world including Astwood Cove where long tail birds nest in the cliffs. Pink sand is also the signature hue in Barbuda, the less-trampled little sister to Antigua. Stretching from Spanish Point Life’s a Beach to Palmetto Point, the rosy beach is fashionable with privacy seekers The sugary strands of the Caribbean who can easily stroll from one end to the other without seeing another soul for miles. On Harbour Island off the northern coast of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, Pink Sand Beach is a three mile sandy stretch named for By Melanie Reffes its salmon colour that comes from the red plankton that mixes with HE INTRODUCES HIMSELF AS CRAZY on the Hip Strip in Montego Bay is white coral. Known for its hard-packed sand that joggers appreciate, Guy although he seems nothing of the sort. favoured by locals who know a good the beach is also good for celebrity-spotting as Bill Gates, hockey Loading his red ferry with people the way a shoreline when they see one. great Mark Messier and model Elle McPherson have homes on the can is packed with sardines, he steers the In St. Maarten, the thirty-three beaches miniature island. seaworthy boat from the French Cul de Sac that ring the island are tropical perfection. in St. Martin towards a flyspeck rock island Often referred to as the duty-free shopping THE SHELL GAME that juts up from the sea. Ten minutes later capital of the Caribbean, St. Maarten’s In Grenada, Grand Anse is one of forty-five beaches on the island and ahead of the midday sun, Crazy Guy special appeal extends far beyond the and one of the longest in the Caribbean. Sitting pretty on the and his boatload of oiled-up day trippers beach, but that's not to say the beaches are sheltered southwest coast, a stroll along the beach is a meet and drop anchor on Ilet Pinel - a petite island anything less than magnificent. For greet affair with the artisans who sell their handcrafted shell jewelry framed by a sand tongue that moves to the example, Maho Beach is particularly under shady palm trees. rhythm of the wind. Yellow quid birds flit unique as it's situated right near the end of Trunk Bay in St. John, USVI is a sandy quarter-mile stretch and about looking for an open bottle of sugary Building A Sand Castle the airport runway. Travelers come from as a shell-collectors bonanza. Part of the Virgin Islands National Park, rum and beach chairs invite those perfect- Courtesy of www.ehow.com far as Japan to photograph the low-flying the beach also has chairs, umbrellas, and a shop that rents snorkel ing the fine art of whiling away an planes on their mesmerizing approach. gear. afternoon on a Caribbean beach. 1. Draw a sketch of the castle you'd like to When astronaut John Glenn spotted the Graced with popular strands and build. forty Turks and Caicos coral islands from BARE BUNS undiscovered strands, the Caribbean tempts 2. Dig a hole down to the water table, where space, he declared “this must be paradise”. You know a beach is popular when it has its own website. The with some of the finest beaches in the the sand is dark and moist. In Providenciales, Grace Bay is action- longest clothing-optional beach in the Caribbean, Orient Beach in 3. Scoop wet sand onto the center of the area world. Although naysayers may grumble central as the sun melts into the horizon. St. Martin - www.orientbeach.com is popular with those who toast in which you'll be working. With sand as fine as baby powder and the the sunset with champagne-filled flutes. Cradling a blue cove, the that all beaches look alike, Caribbean- 4. Work fast so the sand stays wet. philes will tell you that is akin to saying the 5. Build towers by forming and stacking sand sea brilliant shades of teal and azure, the beach is really five beaches – Kontiki, Kakao, Bikini, Waikiki and Cirque du Soleil is just another circus. patties about the size of thick pancakes. famous stretch frames many of the finest Coco – each named after a bar with the same name. Club Orient is Whether your taste is for tanning, lounging Place larger patties on the bottom and seal resorts on the island. for naturists and although their nude beach and Papagayo restaurant under a palm tree with the newest your towers by gently pouring water over Dotted by water sports concessions are open to the public, be forewarned that the couple next to you best-seller or simply indulging in that them. and bars, Aruba’s Palm Beach is the go-to may be sans clothing. 6. Build walls to connect the towers of your beach for swimming, snorkelling and In Jamaica, topless tanners hunker down on the clothing- universal seaside pastime called people castle by jiggling the wet sand into brick watching, everyone needs to lay claim to a shapes and laying them on top of each other. sand-castle building. The less adventurous optional beach at Hedonism II on Negril’s 7-mile beach. The risqué beach in the Caribbean. 7. Carve the towers and the walls into shapes trumpet the photographic virtues of an resort has both a nude and a prude side depending on one’s prefer- using tools like a small trowel, putty knife or evening saunter to take in the tangerine ence to wear clothes or not wear them. SEA AND BE SEEN plastic utensils. sunset. Beaches are a plenty on the northwest coast 8. Dig a moat around the castle to protect it of Jamaica with Cornwall Beach one of a from invaders like dogs and kids. SNOW WHITE 9. Take a photo, for bragging rights upon your Voted one of the Top 10 Beaches for 2011 few not attached to a resort. With a gentle return home. surf and easy sloping ocean floor, the beach by the readers of SmarterTravel, Cas Abao

12 www.CaribbeanTravel.com BEACH

THE SHELL GAME In Grenada, Grand Anse is one of forty-five beaches on the island and one of the longest in the Caribbean. Sitting pretty on the sheltered southwest coast, a stroll along the beach is a meet and greet affair with the artisans who sell their handcrafted shell jewelry under shady palm trees. Trunk Bay in St. John, USVI is a sandy quarter-mile stretch and a shell-collectors bonanza. Part of the Virgin Islands National Park, the beach also has chairs, umbrellas, and a shop that rents snorkel gear.

BARE BUNS You know a beach is popular when it has its own website. The longest clothing-optional beach in the Caribbean, Orient Beach in St. Martin - www.orientbeach.com is popular with those who toast the sunset with champagne-filled flutes. Cradling a blue cove, the beach is really five beaches – Kontiki, Kakao, Bikini, Waikiki and Coco – each named after a bar with the same name. Club Orient is for naturists and although their nude beach and Papagayo restaurant are open to the public, be forewarned that the couple next to you may be sans clothing. In Jamaica, topless tanners hunker down on the clothing- optional beach at Hedonism II on Negril’s 7-mile beach. The risqué resort has both a nude and a prude side depending on one’s prefer- ence to wear clothes or not wear them.

Photo Credits - Left (Main): Bermuda Department of Tourism Left (Inset): Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism Right (Clockwise): USVI Department of Tourism, Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism, St. Maarten Tourist Bureau

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 13 SPA

SPA-TACULAR in the Caribbean

By Melanie Reffes WHETHER IT’S REJUVENATION FOR YOUR SOUL OR A Club West, will arrange a myriad of massages either en suite or massage for your soles, a day in a Caribbean spa is a must-have inside the aptly named spa with its warm colors, aromatic scents guilty pleasure. From an apricot pit scrub to a mineral mud bath, and a jazzy soundtrack that is never too loud. Massages worth the welcome to the world of unbridled relaxation where the wise and splurge include the ‘Knotty But Nice’ kneading of the body and the weary soak, scour and soothe their way to feeling good. the ‘Scents & Sensibility’ that enchants with a fragranced There’s plenty of sensual healing in the Blue Spa at the swank aromatherapy massage. Carlisle Bay in Antigua. With views of the rainforest, the glass In Saint Lucia, La Mer Spa at the Bay Gardens Beach Resort walls are covered with louvered shutters to ensure peace and quiet in Rodney Bay is a tranquil haven for rejuvenation offering sports in the treatment rooms, plunge pools, sauna and juice bar. massages, body scrubs and full-body rubdowns for singles and Stand-out treatments include the ‘Honey & Mango’ that radiates couples. Soaks in tubs filled with water from the Diamond the skin with vitamins and nutrients. Mineral Baths where Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife Josephine At the pair of Ocean Club Resorts in Providenciales, Turks & reportedly “took the cure” is the quintessential Saint Lucian Caicos, Spa Tropique delights with unmistakable island calm. experience at the ooh-la-la Ladera Resort. Friendly front desk staff at both resorts, Ocean Club and Ocean The seven-hour “Body Oasis “at Janissa’s Spa at the Spice

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Island Beach Resort is Grenada’s ode to well-being. The all-day package includes treatments that utilize the bouquet of nutmeg, restorative powers of coconut and the soothing calm of ocean seaweed. Get in touch with your inner hedonist at the Wellness Center at Cap Juluca in Anguilla with a divine menu of treatments like the ‘Caribbean Hot Stone’ that uses water-heated stones that are placed on key points on the body to relax and refresh. Across the sea in St. Maarten, signature scrubs at the Serenity Maho Spa in the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort include the ‘Three Tea Ginger’, ‘Rosemary & Mint ‘ and the ‘Tropical Sunrise’ that will Spa 101 - The Glossary remind travellers why they booked a vacation in the first place. Everything about it is exclusive from the marble floors to the Acupuncture: The ancient Chinese healing system that uses fine needles to open up blockages to balance the flow of energy. bathrobes embossed with the Dior signature. The first and only Body Polish: Skin exfoliation using botanical, fruit or marine Christian Dior spa in the Caribbean, The Dior Spa at The Cliff in extracts. Chakras: Seven energy centers located between the base of the Cupecoy Beach, excels with a power soak in a hydrotherapy tub spine and the top of the skull. where sea water, seaweed and more than two hundred water jets Couples Massage: Side-by-side therapeutic massage for two - one melt tension into oblivion. therapist for each person. Eco-Spa: Facilities that limit the use of plastic packaging bleached Pampering is paramount in Jamaica with a vast array of the paper and chlorinated water. crème de la crème of tropical spas. Setting the gold standard in Exfoliation: The removal of dead skin cells by loofah rub or body brush. Montego Bay, relaxation at the Ritz-Carlton Resort is de rigueur Hot Stone Massage: Hot and cold stones used for relief of sore with a bevy of treatment rooms, fitness centre and saunas. Massages muscles. that aim to please include the ‘Beautiful Blue Mountain’ with a Reflexology: An ancient system of applying pressure to reflex points on the feet. sugar cane body polish and hydrotherapy bath. Salt Glow: Hydrating treatment using salt and fragrant oils. Vichy Shower: Multiple showerheads spraying warm water while Photo Credits - Left: Marriott Resorts Right: St. Vincent & The Grenadines you recline on a wet table. Tourism Authority

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 15 DRINK

large pots called coppers to thicken it. The thick syrup was poured into ceramic pots where the sugar crystallized as it cooled. A hole in the bottom of the sugar pots allowed the molasses that hadn’t crystallized to drain. After a few days the pots were broken and the dark coarse sugar was put into barrels for shipment to Europe. By adding water and yeast the molasses would ferment and could be RUM distilled to make what was described as a hot and fiery spirit. THE SPIRIT OF Over the next two centuries, inventions such as the centrifuge improved sugar production and the continuous column still allowed THE CARIBBEAN more and better spirits to be produced. A Dutch sea captain wrote in By Edward Hamilton, Ministry of Rum (www.ministryofrum.com) his log that during the trip from the Caribbean to Europe, the spirits gained a golden colour and the taste improved. After being elected the first president of the US, George Washington ordered a hogshead of the finest aged Barbados rum for his inauguration party. Just as the language, food, music and dress vary from island to island so does the taste for rum. Rum distinguishes itself from other spirits as it can only be made from sugar cane juice, syrup or molasses without any additional fermentable materials like rice, corn or fruit. Though the raw material is limited to sugar cane, rum is the most varied of all the distilled spirits. Production ranges from small stills that produce a gallon or two of rum a week to modern multiple- column stills capable of producing a thousand gallons of clear Caribbean spirit an hour. Visiting a rum distillery can easily be the highlight of your Caribbean vacation. Seeing sugar cane transformed into a clear alcoholic spirit and then aged to a golden liquid will give you a new IT IS HARD TO SAY THE WORD ‘CARIBBEAN’ WITHOUT appreciation for the people who have dedicated their lives to continu- thinking about palm trees, tropical beaches and rum. Columbus ing the traditions of rum making in the Caribbean. brought sugar cane to Hispaniola in 1493. During the last 500 years Today the literally hundreds of rums being distilled and bottled in sugar cane has been grown on almost every island in the West the Caribbean range from fresh, strong clear rums to dark golden Indies and the culture of rum has been woven into the culture of rums that have spent a decade or more quietly sleeping to maturity in every Caribbean nation. On St. Kitts the word for illicit rum is oak barrels touched only by the trade winds. Different countries ‘culture’ so if you’re looking for some local rum just ask for a bit of produce different styles of rum ranging from the lightest rums made culture. on Puerto Rico to the heavy, full bodied rums of Jamaica and Guyana. Between 1493 and the early 17th century, the taste for confec- On the French islands some of the rum is made from fresh sugar cane tions sweetened with sugar grew in continental Europe while the juice and most commonly consumed with a little sugar cane syrup and Caribbean explorers were obsessed with finding gold and claiming it lime. Haitian rum production is more like that on the French islands for their European queens and kings. Caribbean agriculture than the pure molasses based rums found in other rum producing consisted mostly of ground provisions, corn, indigo, tobacco and countries such as Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago. There is little cotton. Early sugar production was a simple process of squeezing agreement on which is the best rum but everyone agrees that the best the sweet cane to release the golden juice and then cooking it in rums in the world come from the Caribbean basin.

16 www.CaribbeanTravel.com

DRINK

Rum and coke was made popular in Cuba and became a favourite in many other countries. The Caribbean rum punch, a combination of tropical fruit, spices and rum is another of the signature drinks of every Caribbean country. On Grenada, for example, you can’t make a rum punch without grated nutmeg. On Barbados, Angostura bitters is an essential ingredient. Rums are also flavoured with a plethora of locally-grown fruits and spices in every Caribbean country adding another dimension to this varied spirit. Bois bande, reputed to be an aphrodisiac, is blended with white rum and sold in local markets in many Caribbean countries. Rum is made in tropical countries around the world but it is universally agreed that the best rums come from the Caribbean and 1. HIGH-END LUXURY today the Caribbean produces more rum than anywhere else in the Jamaica boasts a string of atmospheric world. No matter where you are in the Caribbean you aren’t far from hideaways, from Strawberry Hill perched in a rum shop and almost every island had a distillery that made the the Blue Mountains to a clutch of sybaritic spirit of the Caribbean. Though the number of distilleries operating havens built into the rocky cliffs of Negril – today is only a fraction of what existed in the previous four centu- Jakes, The Caves, Rockhouse and Tensing ries, the foundations of wind mills, boiling houses and distilleries Pen. can be found throughout the Caribbean. A visit to Puerto Rico Step back to colonial times amid the wouldn’t be complete without going to the Casa de Bacardí, but romantic plantation house hotels of St. Kitts rums to be drunk before dinner and others best enjoyed after dinner there are at least three other rum makers worth finding, and finding and Nevis such as Nisbet Plantation, with dessert or a cigar. There are rums that are best mixed with fresh them is half the fun. Take a look at the Ministry of Rum website to Hermitage Plantation and Ottley’s Planta- fruit juice and spices and others that should only be mixed with find distilleries in the countries and on the islands you plan to visit. tion. Sample the intimate inns of Cuba’s Old friends. As you travel the Caribbean and discover the variety of sugar Tour information is constantly changing but you’ll be on the right Havana, such as the Saratoga or Hotel cane spirits this region has to offer, I’m confident that you’ll agree that track with a few clicks of your mouse. Telegrafo, or the beautiful former convent the best rum is often the one in your glass. So which is the best rum? Personally, I’ve yet to find any rum El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. that I would like to drink to the exclusion of all others. There are Photo Credits: Barbados Tourism Authority 2. LOCAL PEOPLE The mix of cultures and nationalities which make up today’s West Indians has blessed the Caribbean with a unique flavour. Getting to know the locals and comparing notes on the ‘Windies’’ latest performance on the cricket pitch can be a holiday highlight. Jamaica runs a ‘Meet the People’ programme that puts like-minded locals and visitors in touch with each other for outings, church visits or meals in their homes, and the Bahamas runs a similar ‘People to People’ scheme. Grenada runs a Homestay Georgian architecture and red phone boxes 5. BEACHES programme while Tobago’s Bed and along with familiar place names, and the Breakfast Association consists of properties fact that everyone speaks English and drives These have to be the Caribbean’s finest asset owned and run by local families. on the left! – long stretches of the finest powder sand or pretty deserted coves. Harbour Island in the 3. CULTURE 4. FOOD Bahamas is famous for its beautiful pink The Caribbean’s dynamic history has left a The Caribbean has plenty to whet hungry sand beaches, while Antigua boasts that it legacy of languages, people, food and visitors’ appetites. It could mean dining in has one beach for every day of the year and traditions. The traditional Spanish buildings style at the most fashionable high-class sister island Barbuda has so much sand, it and Latin tempo of the Spanish Caribbean restaurants in Barbados, Anguilla or St. exports it! Bermuda has picture-perfect pink countries – Cuba, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Martin, or joining the locals in a fun sandy coves, while Anguilla is renowned for contrast with the café culture and gourmet atmosphere at local fish-frys or party its long stretches of dazzling white powder cuisine of the French islands – Guadeloupe, evenings in places like Nassau, Barbados, and Grand Cayman boasts its famous Seven Martinique and Saint Martin. St. Maarten, Saint Lucia, Antigua or Tobago. There’s an Mile Beach. Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and St. Eustatius enviable choice of seafood with fruits – 6. WATER SPORTS boast gingerbread-style houses but it’s in the bananas, papaya or mango – growing in English-speaking Caribbean that visitors abundance. Grenada has a wide selection of The Caribbean Sea offers the perfect will find traditional stone churches, herbs and spices. playground for a host of watersports with

18 www.CaribbeanTravel.com TOP 10

REASONS TO VISIT THE CARIBBEAN TOPIt could have been 100 10 but there’s only room for 10! There are countless reasons to visit the 30 plus countries of the Caribbean with more island-by-island distinctions than you might imagine.

1. HIGH-END LUXURY Jamaica boasts a string of atmospheric hideaways, from Strawberry Hill perched in the Blue Mountains to a clutch of sybaritic havens built into the rocky cliffs of Negril – Jakes, The Caves, Rockhouse and Tensing Pen. Step back to colonial times amid the romantic plantation house hotels of St. Kitts and Nevis such as Nisbet Plantation, Hermitage Plantation and Ottley’s Planta- tion. Sample the intimate inns of Cuba’s Old Havana, such as the Saratoga or Hotel Telegrafo, or the beautiful former convent El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.

2. LOCAL PEOPLE The mix of cultures and nationalities which make up today’s West Indians has blessed the Caribbean with a unique flavour. Getting to know the locals and comparing notes on the ‘Windies’’ latest performance on the cricket pitch can be a holiday highlight. Jamaica runs a ‘Meet the People’ programme that puts like-minded locals and visitors in touch with each other for outings, church visits or meals in their homes, and the Bahamas runs a similar ‘People to People’ scheme. Grenada runs a Homestay Georgian architecture and red phone boxes 5. BEACHES programme while Tobago’s Bed and along with familiar place names, and the Breakfast Association consists of properties fact that everyone speaks English and drives These have to be the Caribbean’s finest asset owned and run by local families. on the left! – long stretches of the finest powder sand or pretty deserted coves. Harbour Island in the 3. CULTURE 4. FOOD Bahamas is famous for its beautiful pink The Caribbean’s dynamic history has left a The Caribbean has plenty to whet hungry sand beaches, while Antigua boasts that it legacy of languages, people, food and visitors’ appetites. It could mean dining in has one beach for every day of the year and traditions. The traditional Spanish buildings style at the most fashionable high-class sister island Barbuda has so much sand, it and Latin tempo of the Spanish Caribbean restaurants in Barbados, Anguilla or St. exports it! Bermuda has picture-perfect pink countries – Cuba, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Martin, or joining the locals in a fun sandy coves, while Anguilla is renowned for contrast with the café culture and gourmet atmosphere at local fish-frys or party its long stretches of dazzling white powder cuisine of the French islands – Guadeloupe, evenings in places like Nassau, Barbados, and Grand Cayman boasts its famous Seven Martinique and Saint Martin. St. Maarten, Saint Lucia, Antigua or Tobago. There’s an Mile Beach. Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and St. Eustatius enviable choice of seafood with fruits – 6. WATER SPORTS boast gingerbread-style houses but it’s in the bananas, papaya or mango – growing in English-speaking Caribbean that visitors abundance. Grenada has a wide selection of The Caribbean Sea offers the perfect will find traditional stone churches, herbs and spices. playground for a host of watersports with

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 19 1. HIGH-END LUXURY Jamaica boasts a string of atmospheric hideaways, from Strawberry Hill perched in the Blue Mountains to a clutch of sybaritic havens built into the rocky cliffs of Negril – Jakes, The Caves, Rockhouse and Tensing Pen. Step back to colonial times amid the romantic plantation house hotels of St. Kitts and Nevis such as Nisbet Plantation, Hermitage Plantation and Ottley’s Planta- tion. Sample the intimate inns of Cuba’s Old Havana, such as the Saratoga or Hotel Telegrafo, or the beautiful former convent El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.

TOP 10

gentle warm currents and trade winds have an impressive golfing pedigree and parade of turtles along the beaches on making areas such as the British Virgin courses can also be found on Aruba, Grand islands such as Tobago and Antigua to lay Islands – with its claim to be the sailing Cayman, Guadeloupe and Nevis. eggs and admire mischievous monkeys. capital of the world – the Grenadines, Enjoy the spices of Grenada, perhaps spot a Antigua, and the Bahamas ideal for sailing, 8. SPORTSMEN AND WOMEN jaguar in Guyana and dive the Blue Hole in and, in the US Virgin Islands, powerboating, While in the Caribbean, discover the Belize. too. The Cayman Islands, Bahamas and backgrounds of some of our great athletes Bonaire offer some of the world’s top dive and sportspeople past and present like Usain 10. MUSIC sites. Everywhere, clear blue waters offer Bolt, Kim Collins, Ato Boldon, Asafa Music and dance are the lifeblood of West rich fishing grounds, with some of the Powell, Lennox Lewis, Sir Vivian Richards, Indians and for many, carnival is a way of biggest game fish ever caught being reeled Sir Garfield Sobers, Brian Lara, John expressing their cultural rites. Trinidad is out of the seas. Virtually every island offers Barnes, Dwight Yorke, Emile Heskey, Les where the steel drum was invented and watersports. Ferdinand and many more….. home to one of the biggest carnivals, but the countries all have their own carnivals and 7. GOLF 9. ECO LIFE festivals. The Spanish islands are more The Caribbean is a golfer’s dream destina- This region is bursting with natural attrac- associated with Latin music, Jamaica is tion with perfect conditions, stunning tions, from a boiling lake in Dominica and irrevocably linked with reggae and ska while scenery and some of the world’s top sulphur springs in Saint Lucia to an active Saint Lucia is known for calypso, soca and championship courses, often designed by volcano in Montserrat and mysterious blue steel pan, but has also become famous for its leading golf pros, offering challenging holes in the Bahamas. Several islands have annual jazz festival held every year in fairways that make the best use of their designated national parks – Tobago was one April/May. spectacular settings. With eight champion- of the first with Roxborough Rainforest, in ship courses, Bermuda is reputed to have 1776. Then there’s the wildlife. View the Photo Credits - Main Page (Clockwise): more courses per square mile than any other spectacle of thousands of whales swimming Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board, Discover country, while Puerto Rico has more than past islands such as Dominica and the Turks Dominica Tourism Authority, Jamaica Tourist Board, Trinidad & Tobago Tourism Development Company 20. The Bahamas, Jamaica and Barbados and Caicos Islands; watch the night-time

20 www.CaribbeanTravel.com 1. HIGH-END LUXURY Jamaica boasts a string of atmospheric hideaways, from Strawberry Hill perched in the Blue Mountains to a clutch of sybaritic havens built into the rocky cliffs of Negril – Jakes, The Caves, Rockhouse and Tensing Pen. Step back to colonial times amid the romantic plantation house hotels of St. Kitts and Nevis such as Nisbet Plantation, Hermitage Plantation and Ottley’s Planta- tion. Sample the intimate inns of Cuba’s Old Havana, such as the Saratoga or Hotel Telegrafo, or the beautiful former convent El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.

EVENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING

CARNIVAL Cayman Islands – May Carnival weeks culminating in a grand Cayman Carnival Batabano The carnival season includes two parade. Anguilla – August A cultural kaleidoscope of music, months of near non-stop partying www.vacationstmaarten.com Anguilla Summer Festival dance and pageantry with and attracts crowds in excess of Eleven days of fun, food and boat colourful costumes and rhythmic 100,000. Saint-Martin – January - April racing, musical performances, soca and calypso. www.jamaicacarnival.com Mardis de Grand Case: cultural and kiddy parades and www.caymancarnival.com Every Tuesday from 6:00pm pageants. Martinique – February onwards, Grand Case village www.axasummerfestival.com Cuba – July Carnival comes alive for an evening of fine Fiesta del Fuego Each year, as revellers in other dining and street entertainment, Antigua and Barbuda – July-August Santiago de Cuba is a riot of Carnival hot spots wind down with music and fun. Carnival colour, music and celebration with the close of Shrove Tuesday, the www.lesmardisdegrandcase.com “Jouvert”, steel band and calypso live music and DJs. party in Martinique keeps going, music, pageants combine to make www.travelcuba.ca reaching a decadent climax on St. Vincent & the Grenadines – this one of the Caribbean’s one of the most solemn days on June - July greatest summer Festivals. Curaçao – January - February the Christian calendar, Ash Vincy Mas www.antiguacarnival.com Carnival Wednesday. The fitting theme for This 12-day celebration features Dutch, Portuguese, Jewish and Martinique’s “bonus” days of traditional street parades, steel Aruba – January - March African cultures all combine for an revelry – “Rejoice Today, Repent band, calypso and soca competi- Carnival explosive and vibrant carnival. Tomorrow.” tions and a Miss Carival show. Aruba’s Carnival celebration is a www.curacaocarnival.info www.martinique.org www.carnivalsvg.com yearly colourful event which includes street parties, festive Dominica – February St. Eustatius – July Trinidad & Tobago – February parades and creative contests for Mas Dominik Statia Carnival Carnival locals and visitors alike. Traditional Creole-inspired, Ten days of celebrations and Nothing compares to ‘making www.aruba.com pre-Lenten carnival. music culminating in the burning of mas’ in Trinidad & Tobago, where www.dominicacarnival.com King Momo, the spirit of the streets burst with people and Bahamas – July carnival. music. Junkanoo Summer Festival Grenada – July - August www.statiatourism.com/carnival.ht www.gotrinidadandtobago.com Street parties and parades take Spice Mas ml over Grand Bahama Island with About six weeks of festivities, US Virgin Islands – April Calypso music and marching spanning all of July to mid-August, St. Kitts and Nevis – December - Virgin Islands Carnival bands. this event is frenzied, non-stop January An annual celebration featuring www.bahamas.com partying, with cultural shows and Carnival Virgin Islands tradition and culture. competitions. Celebrates the rich culture and Festivities include pageants, Bonaire – February www.spicemasgrenada.com heritage of the Kittitian people; musical competitions, fireworks, The Children’s Karnival Parade and while gracefully combining the and two days of parades, Grand Parade for adults. Guyana – February exuberant festivities with the more featuring mocko jumbies, www.tourismbonaire.com Mashramani solemn religious observance of the costumed dancers and local Celebrate Guyana independence Christmas holiday. bands. British Virgin Islands – July - August with masquerade bands, street www.stkittsneviscarnival.com www.vicarnival.com British Virgin Islands Emancipation dancing and float parades. Festival www.guyana-tourism.com St. Maarten – April - May Venezuela – June www.bvitourism.com Carnival Los Diablos de Yare Jamaica – March - April This island-wide event lasts two Devil Dancers whirl through towns

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 21 EVENTS

across Venezuela on the eve and www.carriacoumaroon.com January featuring international day of Corpus Christi. Their bright SPORTS yacht racing from Grenada’s and ferocious masks and loud Guyana – March southern coast. drums and bells cause quite a stir Clash of the Titans 2 Anguilla – July www.grenadasailingfestival.com as they purge houses and shops of A yearly event held 2 days at John T. Memorial Cycling Race evil spirits. Venezuela has many separate venues, this event Anguillan cyclists compete with Guyana – April public holidays and festivals attracts eight or more Bands from others from throughout the Horse Racing ranging from Carnival during the the Caribbean and North America. Caribbean on a challenging An Annual Event, some of the best third week of February to the www.jamzonesummerbreak.com course that winds its way across horses in the Caribbean and famous “Los Diablos de Yare” in our island. Guyana compete. June. Guadeloupe – November www.ivisitanguilla.com www.guyana-tourism.com www.carnaval.com/venezuela Day of Music This is in celebration of the patron Aruba – July Martinique – July - August MUSIC saint of musicians, Caecillia, with Annual Aruba Hi-Winds Tour des Yoles Rondes concerts on the streets and in Aruba’s trade winds create ideal Held each summer over a Anguilla – November churches. conditions for the largest amateur one-week period, this Yawl Race Tranquility Jazz Festival www.lesilesdeguadeloupe.com windsurfing event in the attracts local and international Showcasing local and global jazz Caribbean, featuring windsurfing yachtsmen skilled in sailing talent, this festival takes hold of the Martinique – June and kite boarding events in various traditional yawl boats for a race entire island. Fête de la Musique categories. around the island. Carnival-style www.anguillajazz.org Martinique is the birthplace of www.aruba-hiwinds.org celebrations punctuate each Zouk, a rhythmic musical form day’s victory earned along the Aruba – May developed in the 1980s through a Bermuda – October way, while on the high seas Soul Beach Music Festival mix of many different styles, PGA Grand Slam of Golf hundreds of yachts, catamarans, Taking place over Memorial Day including compas, balakadri, This PGA season ending showcase speedboats, and other private Weekend, the festival features cadence and bal granmoun, event will be held at the Port Royal vessels trail the racers, partying five-days of live concerts by R&B mazurka and biguine, French and Golf Course and televised along the way. and soul artists, nightclub festivities American pop, and kadans, gwo worldwide. www.martinique.org and sizzling beach parties. ka and other indigenous styles. La www.GoToBermuda.com www.soulbeach.net Fête de la Musique is a celebration Nevis – March of Martinique’s rich musical Bonaire – June TriStar111 Nevis International Bonaire – July tradition with free concerts PWA Bonaire World Cup 2012 Triathlon Heineken Jazz Festival performed in the streets through- Freestyle Windsurfing & Annual SKN Triathlon Federation www.bonairejazz.net out the island. Starboard Pro Kids Freestyle World www.tristar111nevis.com www.martinique.org Championship British Virgin Islands – May This is the second big event on the Puerto Rico – March British Virgin Islands Music Festival Nevis – July - August island in the category of water Puerto Rico Open Memorial Day Weekend Culturama sport. PGA tournament www.bvitourism.com Nevis’ premier festival is a unique www.pwabonaire.com; www.seepuertorico.com celebration of the most significant www.prokidsfreestyle.com Cayman Islands – December milestone in our history - the Saint Lucia – November - Decem- Cayman Homecoming emancipation of slaves in the British Virgin Islands – March - April ber In the spirit of a true celebration of 1830s. It is a 12-day focus on all British Virgin Islands Spring Regatta Atlantic Rally for Cruisers Caymanian culture and heritage, aspects of Nevisian arts and & Sailing Festival The largest transoceanic sailing “Homecoming” is the concert culture. www.bvitourism.com event in the world which starts event of the year at Pageant www.nevisisland.com from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Beach. Cayman Islands – June and ends at IGY Rodney Bay www.caymanthanksgiving.ky Puerto Rico – March - April Cayman Airways Cup Marina in Saint Lucia. Attracts over Puerto Rico Heineken JazzFest Junior football team tournament 200 boats. Curaçao – September www.seepuertorico.com with US-based football (soccer) www.stlucianow.com Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival teams taking on the best juniors in The coolest new jazz festival in the Saint Lucia – May Cayman and the Caribbean. St. Kitts – May Caribbean. Past performers Saint Lucia Jazz Festival www.caymanislands.ky The Annual St. Kitts Open 2 day include Stevie Wonder, Dionne A spectacular music festival with Golf Tournament Warwick, Sting, Earth Wind & Fire, main stage performances on Curaçao – November www.stkittstourism.kn among many others! Pigeon Island National Landmark Amstel Curaçao www.curacaonorthseajazz.com surrounded by historic ruins and The popular bicycling race brings St. Maarten – March magnificent sea views. biking enthusiasts and top racers Heineken Regatta Dominica – October www.stluciajazz.org from across the world to Curaçao’s For 30 years, this annual regatta World Creole Music Festival shores. has been the highlighted sailing Held three days prior to Dominica’s St. Kitts – June www.amstelcuracaorace.com event in the Caribbean. Independence Day, this is a St. Kitts Music Festival www.vacationstmaarten.com celebration of culture with a Three nights of diverse music Dominica – July Creole flavour. This event attracts featuring top international Divefest Saint-Martin – June world-renowned musicians from performers. The Caribbean’s longest running Saint-Martin Billfish Tournament the Creole-speaking world. www.stkittsmusicfestival.net scuba diving festival lets people try The Billfish Tournament in St. Martin www.wcmfdominica.com the sport for free. Dominica is rated has become the unavoidable Trinidad & Tobago – April - May as one of the top 10 dive locations meeting in June each year for the Grenada – April Tobago Jazz Experience in the world. Experts can join the fans of the game fishing through- Carriacou Maroon and String Band Music lovers converge on quaint underwater treasure hunt. out the Caribbean. Music Festival Tobago to enjoy eleven days of www.dominicawatersports.com www.stmartinisland.org The Maroon culture which is jazz, world beat, salsa, Latin, R&B, African in origin is authentically soca, reggae, steelpan and many Grenada – January Trinidad & Tobago – February depicted through the drumming, other forms of contemporary Grenada Sailing Festival Tobago Carnival Regatta eating of ‘smoke food’ and other music. Headquartered at Port Louis The Caribbean’s hottest racers, rituals practiced by the local www.facebook.com/tobagojazzex Marina, the annual four-day most radical kite boarders and people perience festival commences at the end of fastest wind surfers are in Tobago

22 www.CaribbeanTravel.com EVENTS

for the most radical regatta in the culinary scene. feast and competitions. region. www.martinique.org Antigua & Barbuda – November www.visitmontserrat.com www.tobagocarnivalregatta.com International Literary Festival Nevis – August A three-day celebration of literary Nevis – May Turks & Caicos – July Annual Caribbean & International arts, with workshops, author Nevis Film Week Race For The Conch Food Fair readings, book signings and Film Seminars, Conference, Films Attention Swimmers! Don't miss the An exotic display of food from special events. and Music DVDs. Nevis Film annual Turks & Caicos "Race for around the world at St. George’s www.antiguaandbarbudaliteraryfe Commission. the Conch" Eco-SeaSwim. Rectory from 11:00 am until 7:00 stival.com www.nevisisland.com www.ecoseaswim.com pm. www.nevisisland.com Bermuda – August Puerto Rico – February - March US Virgin Islands – March Cup Match Cricket Festival Casals Festival International Rolex Regatta Puerto Rico – April The event celebrates the emanci- www.seepuertorico.com The race is known as the "Crown Saborea Puerto Rico pation of Bermuda slaves, and is a Jewel of the Caribbean” and A Culinary Extravaganza festive and highly anticipated Saint Lucia – October attracts professional and amateur www.seepuertorico.com two-day cricket match. Jounen Kweyol (Creole Food) sailors from around the world. www.GoToBermuda.com Festival www.rolexcupregatta.com Saint Lucia This festival celebrates the island’s Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party Bonaire – April creole heritage with food, music, FOOD and Fish Fry in Anse La Raye Queen’s Birthday and Dia di games and folklore. All night street parties where you Rincon www.stlucianow.com Anguilla – April can enjoy pulsating rhythms and Culture manifestation celebrated Festival del Mar mouth watering local cuisine from different cultures coming St. Eustatius – July A community-based tourism including chicken, pork and sea together with the locals. Emancipation Day festival celebrating the island’s food. www.tourismbonaire.com Celebrating the abolishing of fishing industry and the impact it www.stlucianow.com slavery on St. Eustatius. Starts out has on the economy. British Virgin Islands – March by 5am with the sounding of the www.ivisitanguilla.com St. Maarten – November Caribbean Arts & Crafts Festival trumpet and throughout the day a Month long festival with events www.bvitourism.com cultural fair, with local traditions. Bermuda – January - February highlighting the gastronomy of the [email protected] Restaurant Week island as it is considered the Cayman Islands – November Many of Bermuda’s top restaurants “Culinary Capital of the Pirates Week St. Kitts – March are participating, offering great Caribbean.” Fireworks, street dancing and two The famous 1782 Great Siege of food at a great value. www.vacationstmaarten.com old pirate ships which ‘invade’ Brimstone Hill Re-enactment www.GoToBermuda.com George Town Harbour from the The battle will take place twice Saint-Martin – May sea. daily featuring full period regalia British Virgin Islands – July - August Fish day www.piratesweekfestival.com and use real weaponry, including British Virgin Islands Emancipation Fish is honoured on the first of May authentic muskets, bayonets and Festival with stands for tasting and a Grenada – October cannons. www.bvitourism.com convivial atmosphere punctuated Spice Word Festival www.stkittstourism.kn by entertainment. Grenada’s Spice Word Festival is a Cayman Islands – January - www.stmartinisland.org literary explosion in all its glory! This Saint-Martin February 4 day event offers the best of Art Lovers weekend Cayman Islands Culinary Month Trinidad & Tobago – May Caribbean and more specifically Artists, painters and sculptors open Cayman Islands is the destination Pot Spoon Throw Down Grenadian poetry, drama, their homes and galleries in some for food lovers! Join us for another A roving food festival which creative writing, storytelling and thirty locations during a weekend exciting Culinary Month January - features community cooks dishing more. of exhibits. February 2013. up indigenous cuisine. www.grenadagrenadines.com www.artlovers-sxm.com www.caymanculinary.com www.gotrinidadandtobago.com Jamaica – May Trinidad & Tobago – July Grenada Turks & Caicos – November Calabash International Literary Tobago Heritage Festival Gouyave Fish Friday Festival Turks & Caicos Conch Festival Festival An annual event created to (Weekly) Celebrating the national dish of Authors and poets perform preserve the unique cultural Sunset City Food Festival in the islands. Plus, live music, conch readings and take part in discus- traditions of Tobago. Events are Victoria, St. Mark’s (Monthly, Last blowing, kids games and a sloop sions with music too. hosted in villages throughout the Saturday) race. www.calabashfestival.org island. www.grenadagrenadines.com www.conchfestival.com www.tobagoheritagefestival.com Martinique – May Guyana – June United States Virgin Islands – April May in St. Pierre Turks & Caicos – December Annual Mutton Curry Competition St. Croix Food & Wine Experience The May in Saint Pierre event Maskanoo Third events of such that attraction A week-long celebration of VI and commemorates the anniversary of An annual cultural event that many competitors from around the international cuisine featuring local the eruption of Mount Pelee on showcases the best of the islands' country to compete restaurants, Virgin Islands and May 8, 1902, which transformed cultural heritage, mixing Junkanoo www.guyana-tourism.com international chefs. the coastal town of Saint Pierre (taken from Turks & Caicos Islands’ www.stcroixfoodandwine.com into the Pompeii of the Caribbean, Bahamian heritage) with Masquer- Martinique – May with a series of lectures, presenta- ade to create "Maskanoo". Sainte Marie Culinary Week CULTURE, ARTS AND LITERATURE tions and guided tours offering www.turksandcaicostourism.com One of the best expressions of greater insight into this historic Martinique’s unique gastronomic Aruba – June event. US Virgin Islands – February heritage and traditions occurs Aruba International Film Festival www.martinique.org Agriculture and Food Fair (Agrifest) each year during Sainte-Marie For six days in June, Aruba brings One of the largest events in the Culinary Week – a weeklong together actors, producers, Montserrat – March Caribbean region's agricultural festival with a cooking competition film-makers and members of the St. Patrick’s Week calendar, this annual fair attracts – special dinners, cooking international press to experience Celebrating the islands’ Irish farmers and craftspeople from demonstrations, a street fair and the film industry’s most talented heritage and liberation from across the islands. more, providing an in-depth members. slavery with music, food, freedom www.viagrifest.org introduction to Martinique’s www.arubafilmfest.com run, recreated slave village and

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 23 DESTINATIONS ANGUILLA www.ivisitanguilla.com

welcoming guesthouses - ‘Anguilla’s US OFFICE Charming Escapes’ – DID YOU KNOW? Anguilla Tourist Board www.charmingescapescollection.com. Relative to Anguilla’s small size, the 246 Central Avenue If food is your thing, Anguilla offers number of species of birds found on White Plains, NY 10606 the island is a remarkable 120. Tel: 914-287-2400 more than 100 restaurants. Fax: 914-287-2404 Powder-white beaches, turquoise [email protected] waters, days filled with sunshine, friendly people and a warm welcome await visitors. CANADA OFFICE Charming Anguilla is a traveller’s Anguilla Tourist Board paradise. 2186 Mountain Grove Avenue, Burlington, ON L7P 4X4 CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Tel: 905-689-7697 Fax: 905-689-1026 Explore our 33 stunning beaches, all public [email protected] and accessible.

HIDDEN GEM A BRITISH OVERSEAS TERRITORY, Anguilla is the most northerly of the Too many to choose, but if we have to Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles. share one, Scilly Cay! Head to Island Anguilla’s passion for the sea is Harbour, wave to the boatman and a 3 boundless and her superb beaches and coves minute ride gets you to Scilly Cay and the are unspoilt, uncrowded and recognized by best crayfish and lobster barbeque topped Size: 35 square miles many as some of the world’s best. For the off with a rum punch and dancing to a Currency: East Caribbean dollar; US more energetic there is horseback riding, traditional string band. dollar is widely accepted tennis, cycling, sailing and golf. Find “WHISPER” Dialling code: 1 264 seclusion, relax and be pampered at one of Population: 14,000 Anguilla’s superb spas or have one of our It’s the “feeling” that differentiates Main city: The Valley wellness specialists come to you. Anguilla from the Caribbean islands. Local beer: Carib Anguilla’s accommodation offers a Having no cruise ships, coupled with a Dish of the Day: Crayfish & lobster choice of international standard resorts, population under 15,000, it lends herself to served with rice and peas modern villas, apartments, inns and a private respite… Alluring Anguilla.

24 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Anguilla Tourist Board DESTINATIONS ANTIGUA & BARBUDA www.antigua-barbuda.org

US OFFICES Antigua & Barbuda Department of Tourism 305 E 47th Street, Room 6A New York, NY 10017 Tel: 212-541-4117 Fax: 646-215-6008 [email protected]

Antigua & Barbuda Department of Tourism & Trade 25 SE 2nd Avenue, Suite 300 Miami, FL 33131 Tel: 305-381-6762 Fax: 305-381-7908 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Antigua & Barbuda Department of Tourism & Trade 60 St. Claire Avenue East, Suite 601 Toronto, ON M4T 1N5 Tel: 416-961-3085 water-sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, Fax: 416-961-7218 DID YOU KNOW? [email protected] deep-sea fishing, sailing and scuba-diving. In Barbuda, a visit to the Frigate Bird Antigua & Barbuda hosts one of the Sanctuary is a must as is the 11-mile pink Caribbean’s largest regattas – sand beach. Antigua Sailing Week – which attracts ANTIGUA & BARBUDA IS MORE THAN competitors from all over the world. just sun, azure-blue waters and an astound- CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE ing 365 beaches. The twin-island nation Discover a new beach every day of your provides the ultimate escape with its vacation. colonial-era historical sites, wide-ranging leisure activities and captivating culture. WHAT’S HOT Antigua is distinctly unique thanks to Caribbean Helicopter tour from Antigua to its history, and Nelson’s Dockyard, a Montserrat is an experience you’ll remem- UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ber forever. Also go on a night diving excellent example of Georgian naval expedition beneath the moon and the stars architecture with its restored original on the beautiful island of Antigua and buildings, forts and museum. St John’s, the Barbuda. capital, offers harbour-front shopping and at the boutique-chic Redcliffe Quay, shops, HIDDEN GEM restaurants and galleries inhabit the historic Size: Antigua – 108 square miles; Barbuda treats those who venture over from Barbuda – 62 square miles stone and balconied wooden buildings. Antigua to deserted candy-floss pink Music is integral to Antigua’s culture Currency: East Caribbean dollar beaches like River Fort beach and the Dialling code: 1 268 and the best way for visitors to experience a stunning 11-mile long Low Bay. traditional ‘jump-up’ is at Shirley Heights Population: Antigua – 80,000 Barbuda – 1,200 overlooking English Harbour. There are “WHISPER” Main city: Antigua – St. John’s; few more romantic places on earth to renew Barbuda's Frigate Bird Sanctuary is located Barbuda – Codrington wedding vows, say ‘I do’, or take a in the island's northwestern lagoon and is Local beer: Wadadli honeymoon than award-winning Antigua accessible only by boat. The sanctuary Dish of the Day: Fungee (made from with its romantic hideaways and private contains over 170 species of birds and is corn meal and resembles Italian islands. Swim with stingrays, zip through home to over 5,000 frigate birds. polenta) and Salt Fish. the rainforest or try one of Antigua’s many

Photo Credits: Antigua & Barbuda Department of Tourism www.CaribbeanTravel.com 25 DESTINATIONS ARUBA www.aruba.com

US OFFICE Aruba Tourism Authority 100 Plaza Drive, 1st Floor Secaucus, NJ 07094 Tel: 201-558-1110 Fax: 201-558-4768 [email protected]

IDEALLY SITUATED OUTSIDE THE HURRICANE BELT, in the southern Caribbean, Aruba boasts year-round trade winds with average annual temperatures of 82 Fahrenheit and less than 20 inches of rainfall annually. Aruba is also easily accessible from 14 US gateway cities. Surrounded by turquoise Caribbean waters, Aruba’s beaches range from quiet retreats to busy sunbathing and water sports meccas. With more than 20 dive sites and over 8 shipwrecks to explore, including the Aruba has recently begun a develop- largest in the Caribbean, the Antilla German ment program designed to expand and DID YOU KNOW? freighter, plus an array of marine life, Aruba enhance its tourism product to ensure that Aruba has the highest repeat visitor has something to offer divers of all skill visitors are given an extraordinary vacation rate in the Caribbean, at almost 60%. Most Arubans speak four languages: levels. experience. The island provides entertainment Dutch, Papiamento, Spanish, and beyond its beaches through 28 luxurious CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE English. hotels, featuring championship golf courses, Take a kite or windsurfing lesson on Palm sumptuous spas and vibrant casinos. Beach near the Fisherman’s Huts. Additionally, extraordinary cuisine, exclusive shops and boutiques, museums, WHAT’S HOT and clubs can be found throughout the Paseo Herencia Mall, an “old style plaza” island. with shopping, dining and a state of the art Outside of the resort areas, visitors can movie theatre features nightly musical easily explore the rest of the island includ- performances and liquid firework shows. ing the rugged northwestern coast with The www.paseoherencia.com. California Lighthouse and, further inland, Arikok National Park with its unique HIDDEN GEM landscape of cactus, aloe and the dramatic Dive or snorkel the submerged Antilla Size: About 70 square miles Ayo rock formations. shipwreck, a German freighter that was Currency: Aruban florin and US dollar destroyed during World War II. Surrounded Dialling code from US: 011 297 by schools of angelfish and yellow snapper Population: 110,000 this is one of the largest wrecks in the Main city: Oranjestad Caribbean at about 400 feet long. Language: Dutch, Papiamento, Spanish and English “WHISPER” Local beer: Balashi Dish of the day: Keshi-Yena, Aruba’s Aruba’s unique desert climate created a national dish – the shell of a scooped habitat for flora and fauna found only on the Edam is filled with spiced meat, then island. Visitors can explore Arikok National baked in the oven or steamed in the top Park to observe Aruba’s own snake, lizard of a double boiler. and bird species.

26 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Aruba Tourism Authority DESTINATIONS BAHAMAS www.bahamas.com

THE ISLANDS OF THE BAHAMAS HAVE A service and dance the night away. place in the sun for everyone from Nassau and Paradise Island to Grand Bahama to The “WHISPER” Abaco Islands, The Exuma Islands, Harbour The diversity of landscape, culture and Island, Long Island and others. Each island has people within The Islands Of The Bahamas its own personality and attractions for a variety is such that visitors can get the sense of of vacation styles with some of the world’s being in several different destinations – all best scuba diving, fishing, sailing, boating, as within one country. well as, shopping and dining. The destination offers an easily accessible tropical getaway and provides convenience for travelers with DID YOU KNOW? preclearance through U.S. customs and In the 16th century, pirates set false immigration, and the Bahamian dollar at par lights to lure ships on to the reefs and steal their cargoes, and that US OFFICE with the U.S. dollar. Do everything or do Blackbeard mounted his raids from Bahamas Tourist Office nothing, just remember “It’s Better in The 1200 South Pine Island Road Bahamas”. Nassau. Suite 750, Plantation, FL 33324 For more information on travel packages, Tel: 954-888-1099 activities and accommodations, call 1-800- Size: 5,382 sq miles of land in 1,700 Fax: 954-236-9282 Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com. miles of ocean [email protected] Currency: Bahamian dollar (on par CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE CANADA OFFICE with the US dollar) Bahamas Tourist Office Which was the latest James Bond film to be Dialling code: 1 242 6725 Airport Road, Suite 202 shot in The Bahamas and which movie stars Population: 320,000 Mississauga, ON L4V 1V2 have private islands? Main city: Nassau Tel: 905-672-9017 Local beer: Kalik and Sands Bear Fax: 905-672-2092 WHAT’S HOT Dish of the Day: Grouper, peas ‘n’ rice [email protected] Aura at Atlantis – clubbers enjoy VIP table with coleslaw

Photo Credits: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism www.CaribbeanTravel.com 27 DESTINATIONS BARBADOS www.visitbarbados.org

US OFFICES Barbados Tourism Authority (FLA) 2121 Ponce de Leon Boulevard Suite 1300 (PH) Coral Gables, FL 33134 Tel: 786-515-1226 Fax: 305-455-7974 [email protected]

Barbados Tourism Authority (NY) 820 Second Avenue, 5th Floor New York, NY 10017 Tel: 212-551-4350 Fax: 212-573-9850 I [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Barbados Tourism Authority 105 Adelaide Street West, Suite 1010 Toronto, ON M5H 1P9 Tel: 416-214-9880 Fax: 416-214-9882 [email protected]

BARBADOS REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST history, with international sporting events desirable vacation destinations in the world, featuring racing, golf, cricket and polo. DID YOU KNOW? making the island a real favourite among St. Nicholas Abbey, erected in 1650, discerning travellers. Its natural beauty CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE is one of only three houses of encompasses sparkling azure seas, white Try some kite surfing and wind surfing Jacobean architecture still standing in sandy beaches, pastoral landscapes and along the southern coast, or world-class the Western Hemisphere. charming villages; while the east coast, wild board surfing at the Soup Bowl in and untouched, is a surfer’s paradise. Bathsheba and all along the eastern shore. Drawn by the wealth of accommodation including luxury hotels with relaxing WHAT’S HOT spas, palatial beach side villas, all-inclusive Atlantis XV, a technologically advanced resorts and self-catering options, Barbados 48-seat submarine has underwater tours. is home-from-home for many returning visitors who love its culture and charm, the HIDDEN GEM friendliness of the Barbadian people, the The Barbados Concorde Experience gives multitude of activities and the great an exciting and unforgettable insight into the entertainment. unique character of this remarkable aircraft Complementing this is the island’s allowing visitors to ‘walk the red carpet’ and gastronomic appeal to food-lovers. It is the board Concorde, sitting in the same seats as first and only Caribbean destination to be countless celebrities. Concorde is located in Zagat rated. This famous restaurant guide a state-of-the-art exhibition centre adjacent shows the quality and diversity of dining on to Grantley Adams International Airport. Size: 166 square miles the island. Currency: Barbadian dollar Dialling code: 1 246 The island’s exceptionally rich culture “WHISPER” Population: 270,000 and heritage is reflected in a full year of Barbados is a coral island with beautiful Main city: Bridgetown events covering the Barbados Food & Wine beaches, rolling hills, a vast array of gullies Local beer: Banks and Rum Festival, Gospelfest, Holders and caves; rich in colonial and African Dish of the Day: Cou Cou and Flying Season and Crop Over. Island tours and history that is depicted in its music, dance Fish walks also offer an insight into the island’s and art.

28 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Barbados Tourism Authority DESTINATIONS BELIZE www.travelbelize.org

Belize Tourism Board 64 Regent Street, P.O. Box 325 Belize City, Belize Tel: 011-501-227-2420 Fax: 011-501-227-2423 [email protected]

AS ONE OF THE LAST UNSPOILED PLACES on earth, Belize offers travelers the richly rewarding authenticity they seek in a Carib- bean getaway. With direct flights from the US, (don’t have any direct flights from Canada as yet) this tropical paradise is nestled between Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. For generations, the English- speaking people of Belize have demonstrated a commitment to preserving the country’s unique charms. Belize offers a land rich in natural beauty and the history and culture of its Mayan past. Renowned for having the ranged from gifts such as carved jade, second largest barrier reef in the world, storage vessels and decorative pottery to DID YOU KNOW? Belize’s pristine waters, exotic marine and embedded footprints and even human Diving and snorkelling with whale- wildlife, lush, unspoiled landscapes and superb skeletal remains. sharks are offered during the full diving truly make it Mother Nature’s Best A headlamp’s ray on a glistening moon between February and May Kept Secret. crystal formation, an intact Maya pot and and the most whalesharks observed Divers and snorkelers alike encounter a the whispering echoes of ancient ceremo- in one dive is 23 in one location. diverse and abundant selection of marine life nies add to the awe and excitement in the as well as a kaleidoscope of color in a variety cave explorer’s experience. of locations spanning the length of this 185-mile Belize Barrier Reef. This includes CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE subterranean coral gardens featuring over 70 Shark Ray Alley...plunge into the calm types of hard corals, nearly 500 species of fish, Caribbean Sea with the nurse sharks. the distinguished Blue Hole, playful dolphins, fascinating whale sharks, subdued sea turtles WHAT’S HOT and graceful eagle rays. With visibility usually Kite surfing in Caye Caulker and San Pedro extending hundreds of feet, diverse dive sites and extensive marine life, Belize will not HIDDEN GEM disappoint either the first-time or most Adventure through the thick jungle which experienced diver or snorkeler. envelops you with its freshness and lead Visitors never cease to be amazed by the you through an exciting hike passing awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites inside sapphire pools of water which lead to the Size: 23,300 square miles the caves, though the ancient Maya took a very entrance of the Blue Creek Cave where the Currency: Belizean dollar different view of these magnificent structures. only echoes you hear are your thoughts. Dialling code: 011 501 The Maya believed the caves or ac-tuns as Population: 287,730 they were known, were a portal to Xibalba, the “WHISPER” Main City: Belmopan underworld and used them for religious Belize, Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret. Local beer: Belikin Beer ceremonies. The Maya offered sacrifices to Be one with the rainforest. Be one with the Dish of the Day: Rice and Bean, stew these “gods of death” in these very caves. As a Western Hemisphere’s largest Barrier Reef. chicken, potato salad, and fried result, nearly every cave in Belize has some Be one with the mystical Maya world. Be plantain evidence of Mayan occupation. Findings have one with Belize.

Photo Credits: Belize Tourism Board www.CaribbeanTravel.com 29 DESTINATIONS BERMUDA www.GoToBermuda.com

US OFFICE Bermuda Department of Tourism 675 Third Avenue, 20th Floor New York, NY 10017 Tel: 212-818-9800 Fax: 212-983-5289 [email protected]

ONLY TWO HOURS FROM THE EAST COAST, Bermuda is a perfect getaway destination. The sub-tropical paradise boasts luxurious resorts, intimate guest cottages and family-run inns, incorporating a blend of sophistication and warm hospitality that has long made it a haven for both celebrities and discerning travelers alike. For the culinary guru, the island features more than 150 internationally acclaimed restaurants to fit any budget or appetite. Recreational opportunities abound in this idyllic destination, offering more wreck dives than anywhere else in the world, more golf per DID YOU KNOW? square mile than anywhere else in the world, Legend has it that couples who kiss under the wedding-band shaped world-renowned deep-sea fishing, world-class archways of coral and stone called the spas and distinctive pink beaches. Addition- Moongate in Bermuda will be assured ally, guests will enjoy the island’s wealth of of good fortune and happiness. historic sites, some of which include the town of St. George’s, a UNESCO world heritage site, the Royal Naval Dockyard, the Botanical Gardens, the Underwater Exploration Institute Size: 20.7 square miles and the awe-inspiring Crystal Caves. A haven Currency: Bermudian dollar – on par for romantics, couples are inspired to seek out with the US dollar and interchangeable Bermuda’s moongates to steal a kiss. Legend on island has it that couples that kiss under these coral Dialling code: 1 441 and stone semi-circles will enjoy eternal good Population: 64,500 fortune and happiness. A visit to Bermuda at Main city: Hamilton any time of year is certainly a good start to Local beer: Whale of a Wheat and achieving those goals! Trunk Island Pale Ale

CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE HIDDEN GEM an up-close-and-personal look into the Scuba dive and explore more than 300 Visitors searching for serenity will find it in lifestyle at the heart of Bermudian culture. shipwrecks that dot the nearby reefs. peaceful Flatts Village. Visitors are welcomed by a cluster of pastel-painted “WHISPER” WHAT’S HOT cottages, well-tended yards and rustling Bermuda is known the world over for its Bermuda’s national drinks are the ‘Rum palm trees. There are also friendly neigh- beautiful pink-hued beaches formed from Swizzle’ and ‘Dark & Stormy’ – enjoy under bourhood shops and restaurants, offering a ocean waves crushing calcium-rich shells the sun! marvelous opportunity for visitors to have and fragments of invertebrate sea creatures around its flourishing coral reefs.

30 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Bermuda Department of Tourism DESTINATIONS BONAIRE www.tourismbonaire.com

KON TA BAI? THAT MEANS ‘how are you’ “WHISPER” US OFFICE in Papiamentu, the native language on Tourism Corporation Bonaire Bonaire’s shore ringing reefs are in such 80 Broad Street, Suite #3202 Bonaire. The people of Bonaire are hospitable shallow water that you can enjoy the New York, NY 10004 and love to show you their island. They may wonders of the underwater world by Tel: 212-956-5900 take you to one of their 86 official dive sites, snorkeling as well as diving. Fax: 212-956-5913 [email protected] many of which are easily accessible from the shore, or showcase their many topside treasures. Paddle through the mangroves, ‘the nursery of the ocean,’ or take advantage of the trade winds that have garnered Bonaire the designation as the best place to learn how to windsurf or try your hand at kiteboarding.

CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE The Reef Environmental Education Founda- tion (REEF) has recorded over 469 species of fish on Bonaire’s reefs.

WHAT’S HOT Discover Bonaire by means of short films. Size: 112 square miles Check www.tourismbonaire.com/videos. Currency - US dollar Dialling code: 011 599 Main city: Kralendijk HIDDEN GEM Population: 14,341 Worldwide, Bonaire plays a leading role in Language: Dutch, but also English, nature preservation. The National Marine Park Spanish and Papiamentu and the Washington Slagbaai National Parks DID YOU KNOW? Local beer: Polar Beer celebrated their 30th and 40th birthdays The flamingoes on Bonaire still Dish of the Day: Goat stew almost outnumber the people. respectively in 2009.

Photo Credits: Tourism Corporation Bonaire www.CaribbeanTravel.com 31 MAP

31 www.CaribbeanTravel.com MAP

www.CaribbeanTravel.com 32 DESTINATIONS BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS www.bvitourism.com

THE 60+ ISLANDS AND CAYS THAT MAKE up the British Virgin Islands provide visitors with authentic Caribbean culture and cuisine matched with uncompromising hospitality… all set against a backdrop of pristine natural beauty. As a destination for unforgettable relaxation, the BVI is cherished by new and repeat visitors. With more private island resorts (Necker, Guana, Cooper, Peter and Scrub Islands) than any other Caribbean destination, the BVI delights those seeking the ultimate in luxurious seclusion. Sailors, divers, kite boarders and sport fishermen all revere the BVI’s world-class setting for watersports. And the many intimate inns, hideaways and villas offer charming accommodations for visitors on any budget. Each of the islands has its own personality to know, features to explore, and secrets to discover. Experience the natural wonders of The Baths, a national park trails, beaches, caves and outcroppings set amidst gigantic boulders at water’s edge on the tip of Virgin piles of conch shells – some forming small Gorda. Snorkel the Caves on Norman islands – known locally as the conch shell DID YOU KNOW? Island, the inspiration for Robert Louis mounds. Foxy’s and the West End Yacht Club Stevenson’s pirate classic, Treasure Island. Go have been doing a 2-day regatta for off the grid for a day on Anegada for miles of HIDDEN GEM well over 30 years. naturally windswept beaches surrounded by The Caves on Norman Island, believed to unspoiled Horseshoe Reef, the largest barrier be the inspiration for Robert Louis Size: 60 islands (150 square miles) coral reef in the Caribbean. It’s easy to hop Stevenson’s classic Treasure Island. Currency: US dollars among the islands by ferry or water taxi. Dialling code: 1 284 “WHISPER” Population: 29,800 CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Savour the freshly caught lobster on Main city: Road Town Experience the seawater rushing in and Anegada … grilled and drenched in butter Dish of the Day: Grilled Anegada bubbling around you like a natural jacuzzi at and served at water’s edge along the lobster Bubbly Pool on Jost Van Dyke. island’s untouched beaches.

WHAT’S HOT On the East End of Anegada discover large

US OFFICE British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission 1 West 34th Street, Suite 302 New York, NY 10001 Tel: 212-563-3117 Fax: 212-563-2263 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

34 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission DESTINATIONS CAYMAN ISLANDS www.caymanislands.ky

US OFFICE Cayman Islands Department of Tourism Empire State Building 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1801 New York, NY 10118 Tel: 212-889-9009 Fax: 212-889-9125 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Cayman Islands Department of Tourism 1200 Bay Street, Suite 1101 Toronto, ON M5R 2A5 Tel: 416-485-1550 Fax: 416-485-0832 [email protected]

WITH SWEEPING WHITE SAND BEACHES and sparkling turquoise waters, the Cayman Islands promises an idyllic island escape, just an hour from Miami. The three islands offer a variety of experiences for the DID YOU KNOW? discerning traveller, from world-class At 140 ft, Cayman Brac’s ‘Bluff’ is attractions and amazing dive spots to the Islands’ highest point. pristine beaches and delicious dining. Grand Cayman is home to world-class how many of the 250 or so ‘free roaming’ resorts, shops, restaurants and the acclaimed Blue Iguanas you can spot. The Blue Iguana Seven Mile Beach. Visitors can swim with is the rarest lizard in the world and exists stingrays in crystal clear waters, sample only on the Cayman Islands. They grow up culinary delicacies from the Caribbean and to four feet in length and love to sunbathe, beyond, dive the Kittiwake, and discover the turning a vivid blue in the heat. rare indigenous Blue Iguanas at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. WHAT’S HOT Little Cayman, the smallest of the three With almost 365 dive sites, the Cayman islands, has the feel of a private island with Islands is a diver’s paradise all year round! just a handful of intimate resorts. Many come to relax on secluded beaches or kayak HIDDEN GEM out to the deserted Owen Island to enjoy a Little Cayman, just five miles from Cayman Size: Grand Cayman – 76 square miles, view of nature in its most pristine form. Brac, is the quintessential island escape. Cayman Brac – 14 square miles, Little With its untouched natural beauty, Fewer than 150 people live here year-round, Cayman – 10 square miles Cayman Brac offers an adventuresome and the bone fishing and diving are Currency: Cayman Island dollar (KY); Caribbean vacation. Visitors can take in the spectacular. US dollar breath-taking view on the bluff, explore the Dialling code: 1 345 enticing caves, discover the many wrecks “WHISPER” Population: Grand Cayman – 60,000; Cayman Brac – 1600; Little and reefs under the water, or unwind under “Caymankind”, the uniquely Caymanian Cayman – 150 the shade of a palm tree on a quiet beach. brand of hospitality seen, heard and felt in Main city: George Town on Grand the friendly faces and warm smiles, Cayman CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE charming greetings and welcoming Local beer: Caybrew Visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park handshakes all generously dispensed to Dish of the day: Conch Fritter and the Blue Iguana Recovery Program. See every visitor.

Photo Credits: Cayman Islands Department of Tourism www.CaribbeanTravel.com 35 DESTINATIONS CUBA www.cubatravel.cu • www.gocuba.ca

CANADA OFFICES Cuba Tourist Board 1200 Bay Street, Suite 305 Toronto, ON M5R 2A5 Tel: 416-362-0700 Fax: 416-362-6799 [email protected]

Cuba Tourist Board 2075, rue University, bureau 460 Montreal, PQ H3A 2L1 Tel: 514-875-8004 Fax: 514-875-8006 [email protected]

Note: This brochure has been published for distribution in the USA and CANADA. Travel to Cuba from the USA requires permission from the US State Department.

CUBA IS THE LARGEST OF THE CARIBBEAN islands and part of the Spanish Caribbean. It lies at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico, some 145km south of Florida. Cuba offers everything from glorious sun, historical legacy, varied recreational billed as "the busiest ice cream outlet in the sea and sand to fascinating historical cities, options, nature tourism, events, health, world." This Cuban treat is fresh and untouched underwater reefs, towering water sports, scuba diving and sport fishing inexpensive. mountain ranges, and breath-taking natural are all readily available. Add in Cuba’s beauty. unique cays and especially its hospitable DID YOU KNOW? Havana, the capital, is a mix of old and and cheerful people, and it’s little wonder Cuba is the home of the modern new, and Old Havana is now a World Heritage that Cuba attracts more and more visitors. rumba, actually of African origin, the Site, where many of the centuries-old build- As well as its natural attractions, unique mamba, the cha-cha-cha and the ings are being meticulously restored in their vegetation and sandy beaches, Cuba is salsa. original style. Visitors can dip into one of the notable for the conservation of its architec- city’s many museums, to learn about its tural and historical heritage. turbulent past. Cuba is the ideal country to unwind and CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE relax in, as well as being unique and very Viñales in western Cuba is the island’s diverse. Miles of beautiful beaches, a broad prime eco-tourist destination, and offers hiking, bird-watching, mountain biking, cave exploration and rock climbing.

WHAT’S HOT Havana has a vibrant nightlife with lots of bars, live music, dancing and cabaret.

HIDDEN GEM Take an excursion to Topes de Collantes, a Size: 42, 804 square miles perfect setting for health tourism with Currency: Cuban peso Dialling code: 011 53 waterfalls, pools and well-marked ecologi- Population: 11,822,800 cal trails. Main city: Havana Language: Spanish “WHISPER” Local beer: Cristal and Bucanero In Havana, a parlour called Coppelia is

36 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Cuba Tourist Board DESTINATIONS CURAÇAO www.curacao.com

US OFFICE Curaçao Tourist Board One Gateway Centre, Suite 2600 Newark, NJ 07102 Tel: 973-353-6200 Fax: 973-353-6201 [email protected]

WELCOME TO CURAÇAO, THE ISLAND where you will feel at home. Many guests are already familiar with the island’s rich cultural heritage and characteristic pastel- coloured buildings with step-gabled façades. Willemstad’s tourist attractions are the Handelskade, the ever-bustling floating market and the pontoon bridge (the swinging old lady). Curaçao is also the island of pearl-white beaches and azure-blue bays, enjoying a tropical climate with unique flora and fauna. Come and discover for yourself why HIDDEN GEM Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage The Blue Cave on the West end of the DID YOU KNOW? The Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue Site. island. Spend at least one evening – Friday And when the sun goes down, Curaçao is the Caribbean’s oldest continuously is the best – enjoying ‘happy hour’ which operating synagogue. is renowned for its fantastic nightlife. takes place all over the island. But one of The island was discovered in 1499 by the best places to enjoy it is at Mambo Alonso de Ojeda, a lieutenant of Columbus. Beach Wet & Wild with snacks on the The local inhabitants were Indians of house, between 6 and 7pm. enormous stature, which is why the Spaniards referred to the island as ‘Isla de “WHISPER” los Gigantes’ (Island of the Giants). The Many know Curaçao for its famous Blue island remained Spanish until it was Curaçao Liqueur, made on the island, but conquered in 1634 by the Dutch. From the did you know that the island is also end of the 17th until the beginning of the renowned for its Rom Berde, “Green Rum,” 19th century, the island underwent a trading made at Netto Bar by Netto himself when of places between the English and Dutch. In he was a young boy. 1815 the Netherlands regained control. This Dutch island is one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean. Curaçao welcomes you, enjoy your stay! Size: 144 square miles CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Currency: ANG Antillean guilder Visit as many beaches as you can during Dialling code: 011 599 your stay on the island. Let us know how Population: 138,000 many there are! Main city: Willemstad Language: Dutch (also English, Spanish WHAT’S HOT and Papiamentu) Local Beer: Polar and Amstel Recently opened is the Hyatt Regency Dish of the Day: goat stewed; red Curaçao Golf Resort, Spa & Marina with snapper fish; fried plantains gorgeous views of the East end of the island.

Photo Credits: Curaçao Tourist Board www.CaribbeanTravel.com 37 DESTINATIONS DOMINICA www.discoverdominica.com

Discover Dominica Tourism Authority 1st Floor, Financial Centre Building, Kennedy Avenue, Roseau, Dominica Tel: 767-448-2045 Fax: 767-448-5840 T [email protected]

DOMINICA (Dom-in-EE-Ka) IS KNOWN as the Nature Island of the Caribbean because of its lush, green mountainous landscapes and rainforests. Dominica is the perfect destination for those wanting an outdoor eco-friendly vacation and is a haven for hikers, with walking routes from 10 minutes to seven hours long, and some 2 ½ weeks to complete the entire Waitukubuli National Trail. Rivers, waterfalls, sulphur springs and even a Boiling Lake, are some of the island’s defining attractions. Its unspoiled rainforests and unique diving spots are experiences naturalists will really appreciate. The island offers the most diverse range DID YOU KNOW? of flora and fauna in the whole of the Carib- The author Jean Rhys, who wrote “Wide Sargasso Sea”, was born on bean. More than 160 birds have been sighted Dominica. on Dominica. It also has a large population of frogs, small tree lizards, bats, butterflies and two endemic parrot species. Size: 291 square miles In addition, 22 species of whale and Currency: East Caribbean dollar dolphin have been sighted all year round at Dialling code: 1 767 different locations and spotting excursions Population: 71,727 (2003) have an above 90% success rate. Main city: Roseau Local beer: Kubuli beer Divers from across the globe visit Dish of the Day: Mahi mahi with Dominica each year for its fantastic diving, plantain, rice, lentils, ground provisions with dive spots that descend to depths of 1,000 and vegetables feet. Dining on Dominica is a culinary delight including fresh fruit, exotic fresh fruit juices, Trois Pitons National Park. Reaching it is vegetables and a whole variety of spices. no easy feat, but the hike through the Valley of Desolation is worth the effort. Warning: CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Don’t try swimming! The lake really does Hike the Waitukubuli National Trail, approxi- boil. mately 115 miles long and divided into 14 WHAT’S HOT contiguous segments. The trail encompasses The World Creole Music Festival, held each “WHISPER” different degrees of difficulty featuring natural October, has included Sean Paul as featured Dominica is a spectacular green island of and cultural heritage as it passes through the artiste. rugged mountains, lush rainforests and UNESCO World Heritage Site, national parks rushing rivers in the Eastern Caribbean and forest reserves, historical sites, old routes HIDDEN GEM offering adventure vacations including: and the Carib (Kalinago) paths first cut by The Boiling Lake is the second largest of its hiking, cultural festivals, diving, whale- Dominica’s indigenous people. kind in the world, at the heart of the Morne watching and canyoning adventures.

38 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Discover Dominica Tourism Authority DESTINATIONS GRENADA www.grenadagrenadines.com

US OFFICE Grenada Board of Tourism P. O Box 1668, Lake Worth, FL 33460 Tel: 561-588-8176 Fax: 561-588-7267 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Grenada Board of Tourism 439 University Avenue, #920 Toronto, ON M5G 1Y8 Tel: 416-595-1339 Fax: 416-595-8278 [email protected]

WITH SWEEPING WHITE SAND BEACHES Known as the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’, the wafting scents of nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon and vanilla perfume the air over the idyllic island of Grenada. Grenada and its sister islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique are ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing tropical holiday. Grenada has more than 40 white sandy beaches with turquoise waters, exciting water sports, historical treasures and a lush green interior. One-ninth of Grenada’s 133 DID YOU KNOW? The Sunset City Food Festival takes square mile landmass is protected parks and place in the town of Victoria on the natural wildlife sanctuaries where visitors final Saturday of every month from can discover hidden waterfalls and crater about six in the evening to the wee lakes. hours of the next morning. There is plenty to fit in on a visit to Grenada. A 90-minute catamaran day trip to Carriacou is a ‘must do’ especially during river tubing adventure? carnival. River tubing, sailing, whale and dolphin watching or a simple stroll through WHAT’S HOT the St. Georges’ vibrant Saturday market are The town of Gouyave hosts the weekly Fish just a few of the many options on offer. Friday Festival with the best freshly caught The underwater scenery is every bit as fish. breath-taking as it is above the waves with over 50 dive sites and numerous shipwrecks HIDDEN GEM including the largest wreck in the Caribbean. Grand Etang National Park with its Mona There’s also a vast array of sea life as well Monkeys, hiking trails and tranquil as the world’s first Underwater Sculpture locations offer the perfect setting for Park, which can be easily accessed by divers weddings and picnics. Size: 133 square miles and snorkelers, or viewed from a glass- Currency: East Caribbean Dollar Dialling code: 1 473 bottomed boat. “WHISPER” Population: 109,724 Apart from an atmosphere overwhelmed by Main city: St. George’s CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE the combined aromas of nine distinctive Local beer: Carib Are you brave enough to ride the rapids of spices and friendly people, the destination is Dish of the Day: Oil Down – spicy stew the Balthazar River while experiencing the endowed with the only alluring Underwater of salted meat with dumplings exotic scenery and tropical vegetation on a Sculpture Park in the Caribbean.

Photo Credits: Grenada Board of Tourism www.CaribbeanTravel.com 39 DESTINATIONS GUADELOUPE ISLANDS www.lesilesdeguadeloupe.com • www.myguadeloupe.ca

Comité du Tourisme des Iles de Guadeloupe 5 Square de la Banque, BP 555 97166 Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe Tel: 011-590-590-8-20930 Fax: 011-590-590-8-38922 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE French Government Tourist Office 1981 McGill College, Bldg. 490 B, 4th Floor, Montreal, PQ H3A 2W9 Tel: 514-288-2026 Fax: 514-845-4868 [email protected]

US OFFICES French Government Tourist Office 205 N. Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60601 Tel: 312-327-0290 Fax: 312-397-0720 MANY VISITORS ARE ATTRACTED TO [email protected] the Islands of Guadeloupe for their diversity ATOUT-FRANCE France Tourism and the breath-taking scenery, not only on Development Agency the two large islands forming the “butter- 9454 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 210 fly”, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, but also Beverly Hills, CA 90212 on La Désirade, Les Saintes & Marie- Tel: 310-271-6665 Galante. Fax: 310-276-2835 There is the tropical rainforest with [email protected] exuberant waterfalls and luxurious vegeta- ATOUT-FRANCE France Tourism tion, the National Park (part of the Development Agency UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve) to 444 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor explore and the volcano La Soufrière New York, NY 10022 (1,467m) to climb. unforgettable stay on the Islands of Guade- Tel: 212-745-0942 The crystal clear blue sea is great for loupe! Fax: 212-838-7855 watersports and offers natural marine [email protected] reserves, peaceful lagoons, magnificent CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE white sandy beaches and unspoiled Go on a hike through the rain forests in the UNESCO classified bays. 74,100 acre Parc National de Guadeloupe. DID YOU KNOW? The islands of Guadeloupe boast a mix Guadeloupe offers a vast choice of of French, European, Indian and Afro- WHAT’S HOT restaurants and cafés – over 700 – Caribbean influences in their culture, The Marie-Galante “Terre de Blues Festival”, including Vietnamese and Lebanese. architecture, craft, music, dance, and held in May, is Guadeloupe’s biggest musical Carnival of course! event. Our Creole cuisine has an unparalleled Size: 660 square miles array of flavours, found at the heart of HIDDEN GEM Currency: Euro vibrant markets, themed houses and La Désirade is a haven of peace which has Dialling code: 011 590 Population: 451 000 museums, plantations, distilleries, bars and succeeded in preserving its tradition. Acces- Main city: Basse-Terre restaurants. sible by sea or by air, the island can be Language: French and Créole, and From the untamed nature and marine explored by foot, bicycle or scooter, along its English is widely spoken treasures to the genuine warm welcome, single road. Its friendly inhabitants and Local Beer: Gwada Gold accommodation to suit any budget, and magnificent white sandy beaches, protected by Dish of the Day: Queen conch fricassee countless activities, there’s no doubt that long coral reefs, are a delight for beach lovers, visitors are five times more likely to have an divers and hikers alike.

40 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board DESTINATIONS GUYANA www.guyana-tourism.com

US OFFICE Consulate General of Guyana 370 Seventh Avenue, Suite 402 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10001 Tel: 212-947-5110 Fax: 212-947-5163 [email protected]

Guyana Tourism Authority National Exhibition Centre, Sophia, Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 011-592 219 0094-6 Email: [email protected]

GUYANA IS SOUTH AMERICA’S ONLY Cathedral, the tallest freestanding wooden English-speaking country, a nature paradise building in the world; to the Botanical that lies off the conventional ‘beach and garden and Stabroek Market. sunshine’ tourist path. The population is a unique ethnic and cultural potluck, predomi- CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE nantly peoples of African and East Indian The Iwokrama Canopy walkway is a series descent, peppered with the indigenous of suspension bridges and decks, located in Amerindians, salted with a touch of Europeans Iwokrama Forest. and Chinese, and flavoured with our own ‘Dougla’ of mixed heritage. WHAT’S HOT Guyana is spread over a geographically Kaieteur Falls is an exotic display of diverse eighty three thousand square miles, nature’s power where water thunders dissected by three mighty rivers and several 30,000 gallons of water down 251 metres DID YOU KNOW? meandering creeks. The capital, Georgetown, per second. Shell Beach on Guyana’s north-east is the economic centre. The low coastal plain coast is a 90-mile (145 km) stretch of HIDDEN GEM millions of tiny shells – and a nesting is home to most of the population, while the ground for hawksbill turtles. hilly sandy region, savannah low lands and Spend two evenings, Friday and Saturday, mountainous regions remain relatively club hopping on the street that never sleeps unpopulated, but rich in pristine rainforests, - Sheriff Street. Try the Banks Beer and the minerals and ecosystems. El Dorado 21 year old rum, both winners of Size: 83,850 square miles Experience our diverse wildlife and international gold medals. Currency: Guyanese dollar ecological parks – nature resorts provide an Dialling code: 011 592 interesting mix of comfort and taste of nature; “WHISPER” Population: 767,245 see more than 800 species of birds, 15 species Our product is nature based and offers great Main City: Georgetown of turtles and many rainforest wonders. experiences - Eco, Nature, Adventure! Very Local Beer: Banks Beer The architectural and historic sightseeing sustainable. Dish of the Day: Pepperpot offers plenty to discover from the St. George’s

Photo Credits: Guyana Tourism Authority www.CaribbeanTravel.com 41 DESTINATIONS HAITI www.haititourisme.gouv.ht

US OFFICE Consulate General of the Republic of Haiti 271 Madison Avenue, 5th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: 212-697-9767 Fax: 212-681-6991 [email protected]

Haiti Ministry of Tourism 8 Rue Légitime, Champs de Mars, HT-6110, Port-au-Prince, Haïti Tel: 011 (509) 2949-2011/3816- 0003/3816-0002 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

HAITI IS LOCATED 80KM EAST OF CUBA The capital, Port-au-Prince, was until and shares the island of Hispaniola with the the recent earthquake, home to lively Dominican Republic. It has more than 1,500 markets, squares, museums, art galleries km of beautiful coastline due to its position on and historic monuments. It is hoped that all the western side of the island. these attractions will once again be a part of Haiti is a mountainous island, which has a the capital’s allure. strong native Indian, African, European and American heritage. Its dazzling sandy beaches CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE and countryside provide a fantastic destination Visit the Citadelle Henri Christophe (World for the visitor with a desire for some adven- Heritage site), the largest fortress in the ture. Caribbean. From beautiful white sand and volcanic DID YOU KNOW? beaches to secluded, sandy coves that can only WHAT’S HOT Audubon, the bird artist who inspired all of the Audubon birding societies in be reached by rowing boat, there’s an Haitian art is highly prized by collectors the US, was Haitian. immense selection of picturesque areas ideal around the world. for swimming and snorkelling. For those with a keen eye for nature, the HIDDEN GEM island’s rich diversity and its wonderfully On the southern peninsula in Jacmel are Size: 10,714 square miles unspoilt mountains, rainforest and landscapes Bassin Bleu, a triple waterfall with deep Currency: Gourde hold much to be admired. pools, and Pic de Macaya, a 7,700 feet Dialling code: 011 509 Haiti boasts many national parks for mountain populated by rare orchids and Population: 8,300,000 challenging hikes that exhilarate and provide birds; Port Salut Beaches and Cave Marie Main city: Port-au-Prince amazing views. So too does the Citadelle Jeanne. There are also the beautiful beaches Language: French and Creole Henri Christophe at the peak of a 3,000ft of Côtes de fer (South Region) and Park Local beer: Prestige mountain, close to Milot. National Historic in the North.

42 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Haiti Ministry of Tourism DESTINATIONS JAMAICA www.visitjamaica.com

US OFFICES Jamaica Tourist Board 5201 Blue Lagoon Drive, Suite 670, Miami, FL 33126 Tel: 305-665-0557 Fax: 305-666-5536 [email protected]

Jamaica Tourist Board 767 3rd Avenue, Suite 217 New York, NY 10017 Tel: 212-838-2610 Fax: 212-838-2605 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Jamaica Tourist Board 303 Eglington Avenue East Suite 200, Toronto, ON M4P 1L3 Tel: 416-482-7850 Fax: 416-482-1730 [email protected]

JAMAICA IS KNOWN FOR ITS STRONG cabins, luxury boutique hotels, and B&Bs. DID YOU KNOW? sense of identity expressed through its friendly Jamaica was a Spanish colony until people, reggae music, delicious cuisine, CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE 1655, when it was seized by diverse art and natural beauty. It is the third Take a seven-mile hike up the Blue England’s navy on the orders of largest English-speaking Caribbean island at Mountains and enjoy the expansive views Oliver Cromwell. 4,411 square miles with a population heading of the North and South coasts. towards three million. Steeped in culture, with a wonderful WHAT’S HOT climate and a reputation for having a laid back The Outameni Experience provides a vibe, Jamaica is a year-round destination with fantastic background of Jamaica’s rich something for just about everyone; from the heritage. buzzing capital of Kingston to the spectacular beach areas on the north coast to the laid back HIDDEN GEM vibe of the island’s West Coast. Laughing Waters in Ocho Rios is thought to Popular attractions for the whole family be the location where Bond girl, ‘Honey include Kool Runnings Water Park in Negril Rider’ walks out of the ocean to surprise and the Outameni Experience in Trelawny. James Bond in the film Dr. No. Meanwhile in Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls is widely held to be one of the most beautiful “WHISPER” waterfalls in the world. Farm to Table at Round Hill - Visit an area Culture vultures can explore Jamaica’s less travelled which is responsible for some Size: 4,411 sq miles rich heritage at many museums and galleries, eighty percent of the island’s vegetable Currency: Jamaican Dollar from the Bob Marley museum in Kingston to production and popularly called the bread Dialling code: 1 876 the Institute of Jamaica, the Caribbean nation’s basket of Jamaica. Situated in the Pedro Population: 2,804,332 equivalent of the British Museum in London. Plains region on the island’s south coast in Main City: Kingston Accommodation ranges from 3 to 5-star St. Elizabeth, Round Hill hosts a monthly Local Beer: Red Stripe all-inclusive hotels in the major tourist areas to Farm to Table Dinner held once on the Dish of the Day: Jerk Chicken smaller hotel options including eco beach Saturday closest to the full moon.

Photo Credits - Main: Jamaica Tourist Board, Above: Dolphin Cove www.CaribbeanTravel.com 43 DESTINATIONS MARTINIQUE www.martinique.org • www.lamartinique.ca

US OFFICE Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA 825 Third Avenue, 29th Floor New York, NY 10022 Tel: 212-838-6887 Fax: 212-838-7855 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT 4000, rue St-Ambroise, bureau 265, Montreal, QC H4C 2C7 Tel: 514-844-8566 Fax: 514-844-8901

MARTINIQUE IS A MAGICAL ISLAND, the “Flower of the Caribbean”. The Caribbean island with French flair, The Isle of Flowers, The Rum Capital of the World, The Isle of the Famed Poet (Aimé Césaire) – by any one of its HIDDEN GEM DID YOU KNOW? many names, Martinique remains one of the Ajoupa-Bouillon, a small flower village is French and British rivalry over most alluring and enchanting destinations in home to the impressive Gorges de la Martinique ended in 1763, when the world. Falaise, mini-gorges of the river Falaise that France recognized Britain’s posses- Named “Top Caribbean Island for more adventurous souls can climb to reach a sion of Canada and withdrew its Delectable Dining” in 2009 by Caribbean cascade. claims on Louisiana and parts of India Travel + Life, and “Best Caribbean Destina- in exchange for the island, which is tion” in 2010 by About.com, Martinique is an “WHISPER” now an overseas region of France. Experience La Route des Rhums. The overseas region of France that stirs the Size: 110 square miles passions with distinctive culinary delights, self-guided tour directs visitors to 10 Currency: Euro awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural distilleries located throughout the island, Dialling code: 011 596 history, warm smiles and so much more. each welcoming visitors with insightful Population: 400,000 Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, tours and free tastings that together affirm Main city: Fort-de-France was born and raised here. Majestic Mt. Pelée Martinique’s position as “The Rum Capital Language: French and The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, of the World.” Local drink: Rum are found here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily available here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique – c’est magnifique!

CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Visit St-Pierre, the city under the volcano, the little Pompeii of the Caribbean, also climb Mt. Pelée, the highest point in Martinique.

WHAT’S HOT Carnival in Fort-de-France offers five days of Saturday to Wednesday partying in February.

44 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT DESTINATIONS MONTSERRAT www.visitmontserrat.com

Montserrat Tourist Board #7 Farara Plaza, Brades, Montserrat Tel: 664-491-8730 Fax: 664-491-7430 [email protected]

MONTSERRAT IS A LUSH GREEN and mountainous island that lies in the eastern Caribbean chain of Leeward Islands, 27 miles southwest of Antigua. Montserrat is referred to as the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, due to the Irish descent of most of its early European settlers. Montserrat is unspoilt, offering peace and quiet, fascinating walks, diving, a rich and colourful birdlife and the awesome spectacle of its active volcano. Montserrat is a friendly island destination that welcomes all of its visitors with open arms. Soufrière Hills Volcano, active since 1995, is the island’s biggest attraction and Jack Boy Hill offers a unique opportunity to witness the live volcano safely. World class fishing, over 30 pristine Montserrat’s capital Plymouth, was dive sites, rare bird life and mouth watering DID YOU KNOW? Montserrat welcomes visitors with a abandoned in 1997 and now resembles a local cuisine all add to the island’s timeless green shamrock-shaped stamp in modern day Pompeii. A new island capital charm. their passport. is currently being built in Little Bay. Montserrat offers excellent scuba CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE diving and snorkelling, amongst its fantastic Drink the fresh spring water from Runaway underwater ecosystems and marine life. Ghaut – a ravine running from the Centre Visitors can gain their PADI scuba diving Hills to the sea. Local legend dictates that certificate through one of the island’s two people drinking this water will be drawn to dive centres. return to Montserrat time and time again.

WHAT’S HOT The St. Patrick’s Day Festival in March, a weeklong Caribbean festival with an Irish twist.

HIDDEN GEM Gary Moore’s Wide Awake bar operates an honesty system, so customers help Size: 40 square miles Currency: East Caribbean dollar themselves to rum. Dialling code: 1 664 “WHISPER” Population: 5,020 Main city: Brades A unique Bat Cave near Rendezvous bluff Local beer: Carib houses hundreds of protected fruit bats and Dish of the Day: Goat Water (goat provides divers and swimmers the opportu- stew) nity to view this spectacle under water!

Photo Credits: Montserrat Tourist Board www.CaribbeanTravel.com 45 DESTINATIONS NEVIS www.nevisisland.com

Nevis Tourism Authority P.O. Box 184, Main Street Charlestown, Nevis Tel: 869-469-7550 Fax: 869-469-7551 [email protected] USA: 407-287-5204 Canada: 403-770-6697

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT THIS small, sombrero-shaped island that grabs you. The charm and tranquility takes you back to a time when things were simpler, when life was more peaceful, when stress was just a word, not a way of life. Known as the “Queen of the Caribees,” the sophisticated island of Nevis is a tiny jewel just eight miles long and six miles wide, yet it has a natural beauty that is unparalleled. Nevis features tropical abound on Nevis where superlative service, rainforests, secluded valleys and turquoise luxurious accommodations and world-class DID YOU KNOW? waters lapping palm-fringed beaches. cuisine have made it the hottest "must see" The Bath Hotel (now the government offices) was the first hotel built in the Visitors can enjoy the spectacular scenery destination in the Caribbean. Come to Nevis while participating in a wide range of soft Caribbean – 1778. Visitors then, as where relaxation has been raised to an art now, take to the recuperative Bath adventure sporting activities and form. Then leave if you must… Stream and Spring to cure many eco-adventure tours, lounging on the beach ailments. or swaying in a hillside hammock. CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE For the upscale traveler, Nevis offers an Climb to the summit of 3,232ft Nevis Peak A-List of award-winning resorts, hotels and of virgin rain forests. historic sugar plantations, which now provide accommodations as intimate, WHAT’S HOT upscale plantation inns. Celebrity sightings TriStar Nevis Triathlon event and StarMile Cross Channel swim from St. Kitts to Nevis.

HIDDEN GEM Hidden in the unspoiled island of Nevis is Peak Heaven, a 4.9 acres village in the parish of Gingerland 1200 ft above sea-level. Affectionately called Herbert Heights, this village was used by two Size: 36 square miles families for agriculture for 100's of years. Currency: East Caribbean dollar Experience the simplicity of past Nevisian Dialling code: 1 869 life in its unspoiled natural surroundings. Population: 12,000 Main city: Charlestown “WHISPER” Local beer: Carib Nevis is the birthplace and childhood home Dish of the Day: Corn meal and of Alexander Hamilton, one of the architects steamed fish. Or goat water (a of the US constitution and first Secretary of popular stew traditionally enjoyed on the US Treasury. His birthplace now houses Saturdays) the Alexander Hamilton museum.

46 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Nevis Tourism Authority DESTINATIONS PUERTO RICO www.seepuertorico.com

US OFFICES Puerto Rico Tourism Company 135 West 50th Street, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10020 Tel: 212-245-1200 Fax: 212-586-1212 [email protected]

Puerto Rico Tourism Company 3575 W Cahuenga Boulevard, Suite 405, Los Angeles, CA 90068 Tel: 323-874-5990 Fax: 323-874-7257 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE Puerto Rico Tourism Company 6-295 Queens Street East, Suite 465 Brampton, ON L6W 4S6 Tel: 416-368-2680 Fax: 416-368-5350 | [email protected]

LOCATED IN THE HEART of the Caribbean, east of Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico is DID YOU KNOW? only 2.5 hours flight from Miami. Travelling to Puerto Rico from the Puerto Rico consists of three main United States is the same as travelling islands: Puerto Rico, Culebra and Vieques. on a domestic flight. Because of a central mountain range that crosses the island from west to east, it has a Size: 9104 square miles diverse geography. In the northeast there is a Currency: US Dollar rainforest while in the southwest it is arid. Dialling code: 1 787 The people of Puerto Rico and their Population: 4.2 million culture is a mix of Taino Indians, Black Main city: San Juan Africans and Europeans. Puerto Rico is a Language: Spanish and English Commonwealth of the United States. The Local beer: Medalla entry requirements for Puerto Rico are the Dish of the Day: Beef Steak with same as for mainland United States and travel onions, white rice, beans and fried between the two is open. There are accommodations and attrac- CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE fireflies and provide the experience of a tions for every taste: from city hotels and Take a stroll through Old San Juan which lifetime as they produce incredible glowing resorts to properties on the beach or in the comprises seven square blocks of cobbled waters. Two of the most spectacular bays mountains; from museums to shopping, from streets and colonial architecture. are the northeast’s Mosquito Bay in water sports to casinos & nightlife; from Vieques and Cabezas de San Juan in jewellery boutiques to factory outlet malls. WHAT’S HOT Fajardo. And it is all within a maximum drive of four The bar at La Concha Hotel and Budatai hours. Restaurant in Condado and live salsa music “WHISPER” Puerto Rico is the ideal selection for Imagine lounging on a perfect beach, every taste: town and country or fly and drive; HIDDEN GEM kayaking in a bioluminiscent bay, and Puerto Rico with Vieques or Culebra; Puerto One of the most memorable experiences is walking through 500 years of history. These Rico with the United States mainland; San night swimming in Puerto Rico’s biolumi- are just a few of the experiences that make Juan with a cruise; or Puerto Rico with nescent bays. The bays are home to large Puerto Rico an ideal world-class Caribbean another Caribbean destination. colonies of dinoflagellates that light up like destination.

Photo Credits: Puerto Rico Tourism Company www.CaribbeanTravel.com 47 DESTINATIONS SAINT LUCIA www.stlucianow.com • www.stlucianow.ca

US OFFICES Saint Lucia Tourist Board 800 Second Avenue, Suite 5B New York, NY 10017 Tel: 1-800-456-3984/1-888-478-5824 Fax: 212-867-2795 [email protected]

Saint Lucia Tourist Board 3645 Marketplace Boulevard, Suite 130, #9, East Point, GA 30344 Tel: 1-800-456-3984/1-888-478-5824 Fax: 404-762-8540 [email protected]

Saint Lucia Tourist Board P.O. Box 393, Flossmoor, IL 60422 Tel: 1-800-456-3984/1-888-478-5824 Fax: 708-922-0412 [email protected]

Saint Lucia Tourist Board P.O. Box 2195, Linden, NJ 07036 This journey’s end with its amazing with a mixture of garlic, oil and homemade Tel: 1-800-456-3984/1-888-478-5824 sun-warmed water and golden sand beaches curry powder. Located on Cul-De-Sac Fax: 908-486-7368 is the place for lovers who continuously vote Highway, travellers can enjoy the island’s [email protected] it the most romantic destination in the world. best barbecue! Rightly so, satisfy the senses smelling vivid CANADA OFFICE blossoms in the lush rainforest; liming at Saint Lucia Tourist Board Carnival; diving beneath the Pitons; ziplining DID YOU KNOW? 599 B Yonge Street, Suite 314 at night; eating just caught seafood while Saint Lucia offers visitors diverse accommodations, unique activities and Toronto, ON M4Y 1Z4 foamy waves anoint your feet; or dining on Tel: 1-800-869-0377/1-888-478-5824 exciting dining experiences. world class mouthwatering fusion cuisine. Fax: 416-519-9677 [email protected] Best kept secret is it’s not just for lovers. Everyone gets this dream.

NO DESTINATION FULFILLS THE PRIMAL CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE desire for happiness like idyllic Saint Lucia. Take an energetic hike up Saint Lucia’s It’s the spectacular backdrop of rolling Grand Piton (2619 ft). green-clad mountains and the world heritage twin peaks towering over the glittering WHAT’S HOT Caribbean Sea and palm-fringed secluded Saint Lucia Jazz Festival and Saint Lucia coves. The sound of lilting Creole or a Carnival. favorite chart-topping artist at Saint Lucia Jazz Festival caresses the ear. HIDDEN GEM Spend languid days reclining in Spend a couple of evenings dining at one of splendor making plans never to go home. the many world-class restaurants on the Banish stress without guzzling your budget island. Take a ferry across the picturesque Size: 238 square miles Currency: East Caribbean dollar in the extreme comfort of myriad luxury secluded lagoon of Marigot Bay to reach the Dialling code: 1 758 resorts, boutique properties, cottages Rainforest Hideaway and experience the featuring French architecture and private Population: 171,000 delights of fine Caribbean cuisine. Main city: Castries villas. The sheer variety of cultural attrac- Local beer: Piton Beer tions is outdone only by the pampering and “WHISPER” Dish of the Day: Green Fig & Salt Fish warm Saint Lucian hospitality. At Pork Valley, enjoy succulent pork coated

48 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Saint Lucia Tourist Board DESTINATIONS ST. EUSTATIUS www.statiatourism.com

St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation Fort Oranje Street, Oranjestad St. Eustatius, Dutch Caribbean Tel: 011-599-318-2433 Fax: 011-599-318-2433 [email protected]

ST. EUSTATIUS, FONDLY CALLED STATIA, is a quiet haven for visitors wanting to explore and experience the Caribbean the way it used to be. Undiscovered and relatively unknown, one will find this fascinating tiny island almost crime free. Upper Town Oranjestad is littered with a unique variety of historical sites and monuments dating back to the 1700s. These include a colourful and charming collection of well preserved typical Statian houses with gingerbread trimmings. A carefully mapped out walking tour covers the Lower Town and Stenapa man made reefs are a diver’s dream Upper Town. This tour features noteworthy come true. DID YOU KNOW? sites such as the St. Eustatius Historical It’s time to come and discover the Thirty Statian blue beads were used Museum, Dutch Reformed Church, Fort many hidden treasures of St. Eustatius, the by the Dutch to purchase New Oranje, Honen Dalim Jewish Synagogue, and Caribbean’s Hidden Treasure. York's Manhattan Island from the cobbled stone streets, all testimony to a period Indians. in the 1700’s when the island was commonly CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE known as “The Golden Rock”. Take a half-day hike to the 2,000 foot Quill, In St. Eustatius, marine life is protected a classically shaped volcano with a forest- and managed by the Statia Marine Park. filled crater. Diving among pristine reefs, wrecks, walls and abundant sea life remains a favourite pass time WHAT’S HOT for most visitors. The Charlie Brown and the Carnival is packed with activities and is celebrated mid-July lasting around 10 days.

HIDDEN GEM St. Eustatius changed hands 22 times between French, Dutch and English. The Caribbean’s Hidden Treasure is the marketing slogan. Take a hiking expedition to the perfectly formed extinct volcano called the Quill. It’s 2000 feet, with a Size: 11.8 square miles descent of 270 metres below sea level into a Currency: US Dollar lush tropical rain forest with well marked Dialling code: 011 599 trails to the Miriam Schmidt Botanical Population: 3800 Garden. Main City: Oranjestad Language: English and Dutch “WHISPER” Local Beer: Heineken, Presidente For a tiny island, we have one of the richest Dish of the day: Stewed goat with histories in the world, where the historical pigeon peas & rice sites are well kept.

Photo Credits: St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation www.CaribbeanTravel.com 49 DESTINATIONS ST. KITTS www.stkittstourism.kn

US OFFICES St. Kitts Tourism Authority 414 East 75th Street, 5th Floor New York, NY 10021 Tel: 212-535-1234 Fax: 212-734-6511 [email protected]

St. Kitts Tourism Authority 3216 New Mexico Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20016 Tel: 202-364-8123 Fax: 202-364-8126 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE St. Kitts Tourism Authority 133 Richmond Street West Suite 311 Toronto, ON M5H 2L3 Tel: 416-368-6707 Fax: 416-368-3934 [email protected]

AGAINST A BACKDROP OF STUNNING private villas. landscapes, the island of St. Kitts embodies the laid back and gracious charm of the CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE undiscovered Caribbean, offering a wealth Test yourself to score a ‘hole in one’ at the of activities and experiences for the visitor. St. Kitts Royal Golf Club with holes History and culture remain two of its bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the greatest assets, which have left a legacy of Caribbean Sea. famous historic sites such as Brimstone Hill Fortress, the only man-made UNESCO WHAT’S HOT World Heritage Site in the Eastern Carib- Carambola Beach Club on South Friar’s Bay bean. offers modern European cuisine with St. Kitts is a fascinating island to Caribbean influences. One of its defining explore, whether trekking through its lush features is its 4,000 bottle wine cellar with rainforest, taking an island safari, touring select vintages from every wine growing DID YOU KNOW? Romney Manor Botanical Gardens, home of region in the world. Masquerade is an art form unique to St. Caribelle Batik, or taking a catamaran cruise Kitts. It is a reflection of our cultural or fishing trip. For the active, there are high HIDDEN GEM evolution with paraders performing in tall quality scuba dive sites with incredible coral Caribelle Batik at Romney Manor where peacock feathered head dresses, masks and fringed colourful aprons decorated reefs and fish, a world-class 18-hole batik artisans provide live demonstrations of with bangles, mirrors and ribbons. championship golf course and the island’s turning soft Sea Island cotton into colorful new zip-line tour. batik wear, wall hangings and other ‘one of There are plenty of traditional holiday a kind’ treasures. Size: 69 square miles pastimes too, such as watersports, shopping, Currency: East Caribbean dollar tennis, gourmet dining, or simply relaxing “WHISPER” Dialling code: 1 869 on one of the island’s sandy beaches. The St. Kitts Scenic Railway, the ‘Sugar Population: 35,000 Train’ is the Caribbean’s only passenger Main city: Basseterre Accommodations to suit every style and Local beer: Carib pocket range from beautifully renovated old railway taking guests on a beautiful ride Dish of the Day: Stewed saltfish with sugar plantation houses, luxury beach around the island on tracks originally used coconut dumplings resorts, mid-range hotels and guesthouses to to transport sugarcane.

50 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: St. Kitts Tourism Authority DESTINATIONS ST. MAARTEN www.vacationstmaarten.com

US OFFICES St. Maarten/St. Martin Tourist Board C/o A + W Resort Marketing 15 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371 Tel: 860-964-0376 Fax: 860-434-7891 [email protected]

Public Relations for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau KTCpr – Kahn Travel Communications 77 N Centre Ave, Suite 215 Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Tel: 516-594-4100 Fax: 516-594-4104 [email protected]

ST. MAARTEN IS THE SMALLEST ISLAND IN the world to be shared by two nations, Kingdom of the Netherlands and France, creating a European-influenced vibe with a entertainment. provide shade and privacy for vacationers Caribbean flair. As “the culinary capital of the Accommodations are varied and seeking to relax on their own personal Caribbean,” St. Maarten offers an eclectic include elegant private villas, family stretch of powdery paradise. array of cuisine fusion for food lovers with oriented resorts, quaint cottages and luxury more than 365 restaurants, one for each day of spa resorts. Air service is available to “WHISPER” the year to satisfy the tastes of every palate and Princess Juliana International Airport from St. Maarten is an island shared by two pocketbook. numerous US and Canadian cities as well as destinations and is home to more than 365 Located at the northern end of the Lesser from Europe, South America and the restaurants, 37 beaches and a plethora of Antilles, the island’s 37 square miles has 37 Caribbean. daytime and night-time diversions creating breath-taking beaches and is home to many a truly unique destination. historical and family-oriented attractions. CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE During the day, water sport enthusiasts can Attend one of several vibrant Caribbean DID YOU KNOW? take full advantage of the island’s scuba diving carnivals, such as the St. Maarten Carnival While St. Maarten offers a wide and snorkelling facilities. The capital of in April. variety of beachfront resorts and the Philipsburg offers duty-free shopping with a Caribbean’s only fully duty-free WHAT’S HOT shopping experience, it is the island’s bustling city atmosphere, while 14 casinos and unique history and culture that truly Maho is the undisputed nightlife capital of numerous nightclubs provide endless sets it apart from the rest of the St. Maarten, an island known for having the Caribbean. St. Maarten is also home best clubs, bars and lounges in the Carib- to more than 365 different restaurants bean. Trendy fixtures such as Tantra and (one for every day of the year), 37 Bliss provide cutting-edge entertainment beaches and an abundance of with a chic but casual ambiance set amidst daytime and nighttime diversions. an elegant tropical backdrop. Size: 37 square miles HIDDEN GEM Currency: Netherlands Antilles Cupecoy Beach is arguably one of the most Guilder; US dollar picturesque of St. Maarten's 37 magnificent Dialling code: St. Maarten – 011 596 beaches with its towering rock formations Population: 77,000 and remarkable sunset views. It's also the Main city: St. Maarten – Philipsburg Language: English, French, Dutch only clothing-optional beach on the Dutch Dish of the Day: Fish/Chicken and side of the island. There are a few natural johnny cake caves etched out of the cliff side, which

Photos Credits: St. Maarten Tourist Bureau www.CaribbeanTravel.com 51 DESTINATIONS ST. MARTIN www.stmartinisland.org

US OFFICES Atout France St. Martin Promotional Bureau 825 Third Avenue, 29th Floor New York, NY 10022 Tel: 212-745-0945 Fax: 212-838-7855 [email protected]

St. Maarten/St. Martin Tourist Board c/o A+W Resort Marketing 15 Ferry Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371 Tel: 860-964-0376 Fax: 860-434-7891 [email protected]

WELCOME TO SAINT-MARTIN, the Friendly Island by excellence! As one of the leading destinations in the Caribbean, the island of Saint-Martin is so rich and contrasted that it suits all tastes. Some will mention the 37 beautiful white sand beaches; others will refer to the island’s highly respected gastronomy, not forgetting those obstacle course for kids, the Ti-Tarzan and who will evoke the festivities, the carnivals, private instructors! The recently opened DID YOU KNOW? the nightlife and the cultural events that take “L’eau lounge cabana club & piscine de The National Nature Reserve at the place all year long. source” promises to be an exceptional North of the island is a true sanctu- Nature lovers will marvel at the Natural swimming experience. With more than 500 ary for fauna and flora, consisting of Reserve, the Loterie Farm and the numerous square meters of free form multi-level more than 3000 acres of protected excursions linked to ecotourism. swimming areas connected by cascades and areas. Numerous species enjoy this And, shopping lovers will not be let down. lush tropical vegetation, the L’eau lounge protected environment, notably sea Saint-Martin is a duty-free destination, so swimming pool is filled with 100% of natural turtles which can be seen in the visitors will benefit from the best prices on spring water originating from the Pic Paradis, turquoise waters in Tintamarre, but many items, from perfumes to jewellry, the highest peak of the island. The 11 chic clothing to electronics. with very stylish cabanas are for rent on a also dolphins, humpback whales Unanimously, visitors will express the daily basis and can accommodate up to 10 and more than 27 species of feeling of unity that they experience on the guests. “L’eau lounge cabana club & piscine shorebirds. island – with 80 different nationalities the de source” creates and offers a bucolic population is naturally warm and welcoming. environment which harmonizes a unique swimming experience with the natural CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE surroundings. Don’t miss the Harmony Nights in Grand Case from January to April: carnival parades, live “WHISPER” music, bands, handicrafts market, sea side Whatever may attract you, whatever your gourmet restaurants, art galleries… choices may be, the chances are that you can find exactly what you need in Saint Martin and WHAT’S HOT even more. The Friendly Island awaits! The Loterie Farm opens its door to a wonderful tropical forest mixing eco-adventure, laid back Currency: Euro; US dollar luxury and a dose of Caribbean cool. Experi- Dialling code: 011 590 590 ence the obstacle course or the extreme fly Population (French side only): 37,461 zone and discover from the canopy some of the Main city: Marigot indigenous trees of Saint-Martin. There is an Languages: French and English

52 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: St. Martin Tourist Office DESTINATIONS ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES www.discoversvg.com

US OFFICE St. Vincent & the Grenadines Tourism Authority 801 Second Avenue, 21st Floor New York, NY 10017 Tel: 212-687-4981 Fax: 212-949-5946 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE St. Vincent & the Grenadines Tourism Authority 333 Wilson Avenue, Suite 601 Toronto, ON M1S 2M8 Tel: 416-630-9292 Fax: 647-438-5312 [email protected]

ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES IS part of the Windward Islands and lies 34km south of Saint Lucia and 70km west of Barbados. St. Vincent is the largest of the 32 islands and cays, which extend southwest down to Grenada. It’s also home to the capital Kingstown, a Caribbean community enclosed in a colonial landscape of cobbled DID YOU KNOW? streets, clashing with colourful markets Pirates of the Caribbean: the Curse selling exotic fruits. of the Black Pearl, was filmed in St. Other notable islands include Bequia, a Vincent & the Grenadines. quiet haven where time stands still and there are plenty of golden sand beaches to choose WHAT’S HOT from. Or you can watch the yachts come in St. Vincent’s first luxury resort, the whilst dining on freshly caught seafood in Buccament Bay Resort. the seaside town of Port Elizabeth. The island of Mustique is mostly HIDDEN GEM renowned for its famous inhabitants, a crew Hidden in a jungled valley on the main of actors, musicians, sports stars and the island of St. Vincent, the hotel Petit plain filthy rich! This small idyll may only Byahaut can only be reached by boat. be five miles long but the price attached to Guests can also enjoy a weekly scheduled its acres of real estate belies its mileage. trip to the Vermont Nature Trail for a Another movie star hideaway is Petit St. rainforest hike and venture into the Byahaut Vincent, home to one of the world’s most Bat Caves for snorkelling. exclusive resorts, so secluded that guests have to raise a flag to signal for room “WHISPER” service. The Botanical Gardens are located on the St. Vincent & the Grenadines offers main island of St. Vincent and is one of the Size: St. Vincent – 133 square miles luxury but it also offers culture, soft oldest gardens of its kind in the Western Currency: East Caribbean dollar adventure and beauty. Hemisphere. They are famous for being the Dialling code: 1 784 Population: 109,022 destination of Captain Bligh’s second visit Main City: Kingstown CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE to the Caribbean in 1798 (his first ended in Local beer: Hairoun Explore this necklace of 32 islands and cays, the infamous mutiny on the Bounty) when Dish of the Day: Callaloo soup only nine of them inhabited. he introduced breadfruit to the island.

Photo Credits: St. Vincent & the Grenadines Tourism Authority www.CaribbeanTravel.com 53 DESTINATIONS TRINIDAD & TOBAGO www.gotrinidadandtobago.com

US OFFICE Cheryl Andrews Marketing Communications 331 Almeria Avenue Coral Gables, FL 33134 Tel: 305-444-4033 Fax: 305-447-0415 [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE AVIAREPS Tourism 606-130 Spadina Avenue Toronto, ON M5V 2L4 Tel: 416-561-8243 Fax: 416-323-9746 [email protected]

TRINIDAD IS HOME TO THE WORLD FAMOUS sometimes to see and do in Trinidad and Carnival and birthplace of the steel pan drum. Tobago. Trinidad is thriving with its bourgeoning CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE performing arts scene, vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining variety and irresistible music. Discover prehistoric artifacts, bountiful bird Tobago, on the other hand, offers the quintes- life and soothing mineral pools at the sential Caribbean island with secluded world’s largest natural Pitch Lake. beaches, quaint villages, charming hotels and WHAT’S HOT award winning eco-attractions. Together they Visit a panyard to listen to the sounds of the provide a unique and intriguing destination steel pan. Invented in Trinidad &Tobago, that combines pulsating excitement and the the steelpan is the only new percussion idyllic beauty of a Caribbean paradise. instrument to be created in the 20th century. In the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and DID YOU KNOW? Tobago, you’ll find more than swaying palms HIDDEN GEM Trinidad & Tobago is the birthplace of and sun-kissed beaches. When you visit these With 450 bird species, 620 types of calypso and chutney music (a mix of historic islands you’ll enjoy a multicultural butterflies, 108 different mammals, 2300 calypso and Indian music) and feast prepared by descendants of settlers from steelpan. flowering plants and 70 reptiles, Trinidad & Europe, Africa, Asia, South America and the Tobago is perfection for eco enthusiasts. Middle East. In Trinidad and Tobago, past and Both islands are also home to the highly Size: Trinidad – 1850 square miles; present forge a future for the world to emulate, Tobago – 182 square miles sought after Trintario cocoa, the world’s Dialling code: 1 868 a culture that not only tolerates diversity but finest. Currency: Trinidad & Tobago dollar celebrates it. Population: 1.5 million There’s always something to celebrate in “WHISPER” Main city: Trinidad – Port-of-Spain; Trinidad and Tobago. Throughout the year, The destination has numerous attractions Tobago – Scarborough this melting-pot nation serves up a generous found nowhere else in Caribbean, such as Local beer: Carib helping of fun, food and festivities. From the largest recorded brain coral, the oldest Dish of the Day: Curry crab and dumplings; doubles, shark and bake Carnival to Tobago Jazz Fest, from dive protected rainforest in the Western Hemi- festivals to culinary festivals, there is always sphere, and the largest tar lake in the world.

54 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: Trinidad & Tobago Tourism Development Company DESTINATIONS TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS www.turksandcaicostourism.com

CANADA OFFICE Turks & Caicos Tourist Board 81 Rumsey Rd Toronto, ON M4G 1P1 Tel: 416-642-9771/866-413-8875 [email protected]

WITH SWEEPING WHITE SAND BEACHES The “Beautiful by Nature” Turks & Caicos Islands are located in the British West Indies, just a 90-minute flight, and 575 miles southeast of Miami. This archipelago of 40 islands with only 10 inhabited, has something for everyone. With a warm, dry climate, friendly people and natural beauty it is not surprising that sixty percent of visitors return again and again, safe, quiet and boasting world class accommodations, spas, and restaurants, the Turks & Caicos Islands are an ideal location for relaxation, romance, diving, snorkelling, can be found on Little Water Cay. And, family holidays and ecotourism. The Islands finally, the endless beaches of Providencia- DID YOU KNOW? boast an unrivalled reef system and 193 The export of Salt was a thriving industry les, the main tourism island and home to a for over 300 years, until the 1960’s. Salt square miles of pristine white sand beaches. modern, upscale infrastructure. ponds and windmill remnants of those Each island has a different charm and days can still be found on South Caicos, character. In the capital of the islands, Grand CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Salt Cay and Grand Turk. The new Salt Turk, visitors will love the pastel-shaded There are 240 miles of coral reef surround- Museum on Grand Turk explains the buildings and cobbled streets of the colonial ing the Turks & Caicos, offering amazing process. town. Donkeys are still part of the traffic and snorkeling and scuba diving. How many you’re never far from a sugar-white beach. dive sites can you experience during your Size: 40 islands - 193 sq miles Cruise passengers will marvel in the historic visit? Dialling code: 1 649 sites and enjoy the modern cruise centre Currency: US dollar facilities. WHAT’S HOT Population: 33,202 Make sure you don’t miss the amazing Experience Special Theme Nights at various Capital Island: Grand Turk Local drink: Bambarra Rum cave system on the island of Middle Caicos, Resorts and Restaurants in the Islands. Dish of the Day: Cracked conch – also home to bats and some fascinating Enjoy Beach BBQ’s, Happy Hours, Sunsets steamed, fried, or in coconut milk historical artifacts. Indigenous rock iguanas and Specialty dinners while being entertained by many talented local musicians. See monthly lists of what’s happening.

HIDDEN GEM Be sure to check out “Da Conch Shack” and savour local cuisine in a relaxed island atmosphere!

“WHISPER” Combo packages can be arranged to split your vacation between our various islands, allowing you to experience the best of the modern world and the historic, natural Turks & Caicos Islands.

Photo Credits: Turks & Caicos Tourist Board www.CaribbeanTravel.com 55 DESTINATIONS US VIRGIN ISLANDS www.visitusvi.com

US SALES OFFICES US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism

CONTACT BY EMAIL [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

CANADA OFFICE [email protected]

THE US VIRGIN ISLANDS IS COMPRISED of three main islands, St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas, each a magnificent tropical environment offering a unique array of experiences. St. Croix, the largest of the three islands known for its cultural diversity, lies entirely within the Caribbean Sea. Pastel buildings and charming shops characterize the historic towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted, celebration for all the senses, and three while the local cafés and restaurants DID YOU KNOW? islands means three times the pleasure! punctuate the island’s culinary landscape. Point Udall on St. Croix is the Eastern- Point Udall, the easternmost point of the St. Croix’s Christmas Festival starts in most point in the United States. United States, is a scenic location to view December with a parade for adults on the island’s most breathtaking ocean vistas. Three Kings Day. St. Thomas’ carnival Two-thirds of St. John, the smallest of culminates in the final week of April. St. the three islands, is a protected US national John’s celebration begins in June and park with hilly green land and an underwater culminates on the Fourth of July. reserve. St. John’s world-renowned beaches include Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay and HIDDEN GEM Maho Bay. Grab a ferry from St. Thomas’ Crown The most cosmopolitan of the US Bay Marina and escape to the secluded Virgin Islands is lively St. Thomas, with tranquility of Water Island, often referred sophisticated dining and tempting duty-free to as the “4th Virgin.” Water Island is a shopping. Charlotte Amalie is a bustling peaceful, quiet retreat that’s ideal for a harbor town full of fine restaurants and quick getaway. The island has a popula- quaint shops while St. Thomas’ picturesque tion of fewer than 200 people. Magens Bay is ideal for a relaxing afternoon retreat. “WHISPER” With no passport required for US Buck Island National Monument is Size: St. Croix – 82 square miles, St. John – Citizens visiting the USVI, and non-stop located off the shores of St. Croix. Buck 20 square miles, St. Thomas – 32 square flights available from many major US cities, Island is one of only two underwater miles the USVI offers great value and hassle-free, national monuments in the U.S., and the Currency: US Dollar city-to-beach access. only one occurring naturally. Water Dialling code: 1 340 enthusiasts can encounter tropical fish Capital: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas Population: 110,000 WHAT’S HOT and coral reefs in a dramatic array of Local spirit: Cruzan Rum Carnival in the US Virgin Islands: Three colors, during an unparalleled snorkelling Dish of the Day: Kallaloo, a spicy stew of Islands…Three Times the Revelry experience through the monument’s 700 okra, meat and seafood Carnival in the US Virgin Islands is truly a acres of protected national park.

56 www.CaribbeanTravel.com Photo Credits: US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism DESTINATIONS VENEZUELA www.mintur.gob.ve

US OFFICE Consulate General of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela 7 East 51st Street New York, NY 10022 Tel: 212-826-1660 Fax: 212-644-7471 [email protected]

Ministerio del Poder Popular para el Turismo Avenida Francisco de Miranda Avenida Principal de La Floresta Mintur piso 3, Miranda, Venezuela Tel: 011-58 212 208 4651 / 4652

VENEZUELA IS CONSIDERED ONE OF the most megadiverse countries in the world. It is located to the north of South America, being part of the Caribbean to the north and part of the Amazon rainforest to capital of the country; it has a diverse the south. national and international cuisine, museums DID YOU KNOW? Venezuela is a country saturated with of art, shopping malls and recreational parks. Angel Falls in Venezuela is 16 times an unequalled abundance of an exotic flora A trip to Venezuela offers an unforget- higher than Niagara and more than two and fauna; 60% of its territory is classified table mix of destinations, culture, nature and and a half times as high as the Empire as environmental protected areas boasting the friendliness of its people; it can be the State building in New York. 19 million acres in 43 national parks, 14 trip of a lifetime definitely a unique experi- reserves and 28 natural monuments, ence to cherish. represented in jungles, lush rainforest, Size: 352,144 square miles mountains, snow-capped peaks, deserts, CARIBBEAN CHALLENGE Currency: Bolivar (Bs) wetlands, plains and more coastline than the Visit Venezuela’s iconic Angel Falls, the Dialling code: 011-58 rest of the Caribbean with over 1,000 miles tallest waterfall in the world, and combine Population: 28.8 million Capital: Caracas of beaches. Venezuela’s biodiversity the trip with one to the islands off the coast Language: Spanish features more than 28 indigenous groups. or the Orinoco Delta, or the Andes Moun- Popular drink: Papelón con limón The country is bordered by the tains among many other destinations. National Dish: Pabellón Criollo Caribbean, Brazil, Guyana and Colombia WHAT’S HOT (shredded beef, white rice, black beans and is in close proximity to Aruba and and fried plantains) Trinidad and Tobago. Caracas is the cultural The archipelago of Los Roques off the coast

of Venezuela and Margarita Island..

HIDDEN GEM Located on the coast in Henri Pittier National Park is La Cienaga a spectacular lagoon surrounded by mountains on three sides and the Caribbean at its entrance.

“WHISPER” Venezuela has the highest and longest cable car in the world: Merida; the oldest rocks on the planet: the Guiana Shield; and the largest lake in South America: the Maracaibo.

Photo Credits: Angel Eco Tours www.CaribbeanTravel.com 57 CTO PREFERRED PARTNERS

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Your story begins here… Caribbean region, over 850 hotel members with approximately 125,500 enjoys key strategic industry partnerships, which facilitates ready access and www.casadecampo.com.do rooms, and more than 600 supplier companies represented as ‘Allied’ broad exposure of students to hotel properties, resort facilities and tourism members. CARIBBEAN-BASED BUSINESS professionals throughout the country and across national and global industry Divi & Tamarijn Aruba www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com Branmarc Ltd. networks. Divi Aruba all-inclusive is a 201 room AAA three diamond beachfront hotel. “How well do you know our twin islands” is an eductaional and fun game www.cob.edu.bs Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive is a 233 room property, all oceanfront. Guests to National Tour Association that provides fun family time. The product is a 280 piece puzzle with 52 each property have exchange privileges to all amenities. The National Tour Association is a trade organization of thousands of tourism attractively illustrative cards depicting sites of Trinidad and Tobago. www.diviaruba.com; www.tamarijnaruba.com professionals involved in the growth and development of the packaged FINANCIAL INSTITUTION [email protected] travel industry. We are committed to providing business opportunities and Banco Popular Jade Mountain professional education in an environment where our members can foster Cave Shepherd & Co. Ltd. Founded in 1893, Popular, Inc. is the No 1 bank by both assets and deposits in Rising majestically above the 600 acre beach front resort of Anse Chastenet, relationships with one another. Over the past century, Cave Shepherd & Co. Ltd has transformed itself from Puerto Rico and ranks 35 largest by assets among US banks. In the US, Jade Mountain Saint Lucia is a cornucopia of organic architecture www.ntaonline.com a traditional local department store into a diversified regional business whose Popular has established a community banking franchise providing a broad celebrating St Lucia’s stunning scenic beauty. The bold architectural design interests encompass its retail heritage as well as financial services, interna- range of financial services and products with branches in New York, – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and AIRLINE tional business, wealth management, property management and tourism. California, Illinois, New Jersey and Florida. rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky – makes Jade www.caveshepherd.com www.popular.com Mountain Saint Lucia one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort American Airlines experiences. American Airlines has served the Caribbean for more than four decades St. John Specialties Caribbean Financial Services Corporation www.jademountain.com and together with its regional partner, American Eagle, serves more than 30 destinations in the Caribbean, the Bahamas and Bermuda in the Atlantic. Premier, full-service DMC with over 29 years experience in the US Virgin Caribbean Financial Services Corporation (CFSC) was founded in 1984 as a Islands. Event planning on the highest level – weddings, incentive group regional financial services company. A collaborative enterprise between The Fairmont Royal Pavilion American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 activities, corporate events and more. Endless possibilities. private companies, international development agencies and multinational Imagine an elegant and secluded 15 acre beachfront hideaway that cities in 50 countries with, on average, more than 3,600 daily flights. www.stjohnspecialties.com and domestic financial institutions, CFSC provides its services throughout the captures the warmth and style of a Barbadian home. The Fairmont Royal www.aa.com English-speaking Caribbean, with a focus on the Windward and Leeward Pavilion, with 72 oceanfront rooms, has built up an enviable position for Islands and Barbados. service and luxury. Caribbean Airlines Ltd. CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION www.cfsc.com.bb www.fairmont.com/RoyalPavilion Step on a Caribbean Airlines flight and you’ll feel like you’re in the The Travel Foundation Caribbean. It’s our job to make sure you experience the warmth, colour An independent UK Charity, funding and managing over 30 projects in 16 VACATION OWNERSHIP and magic of the most beautiful islands in the world. Caribbean Airlines. Air GENERAL destinations around the world. It is the leading resource for the travel industry Jamaica. Two brands. One airline. on sustainable tourism in the UK. Cititech Computer Services, Inc. Interval International www.caribbean-airlines.com www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk Cititech blends creative, strategic planning with expert knowledge to tackle Interval International operates membership programs for vacationers and the toughest challenges for businesses. Our Staff and Management Team provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Spirit Airlines have over 25 years experience in the Technology Industry. Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving The largest Ultra Low Cost Carrier (ULCC) in the United States, Latin America CONSULTANCY www.cititechsolutions.com the vacation ownership market for more than 33 years. and the Caribbean. As the unbundling leader in the industry, Spirit allows Deloitte and Touche - Cayman Islands www.intervalworld.com consumers the option of paying only for the features they value without Deloitte is the brand under which tens of thousands of dedicated profession- subsidizing the choices of others. Its all-Airbus fleet, the youngest in the als in independent firms throughout the world collaborate to provide audit, VILLA RENTAL Americas, flies more than 150 daily flights to 40 destinations. INTERNATIONAL CRUISE LINE consulting, financial advisory, risk management, and tax services to selected www.spiritair.com clients. Princess Cruises West Indies Management Company www.deloitte.com/view/en_KY/ky A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess Cruises offers its WIMCO (the West Indies Management Company) is the leading Caribbean AIRPORT AUTHORITY passengers the opportunity to escape completely to the top destinations luxury villa vacation and boutique hotel reservations specialist. The Hospitality Growth Solutions around the globe on a fleet of 17 modern ships renowned for their innovative company, with its Caribbean partner, Sibarth Villa Rentals, has represented Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority HGS is a hospitality consulting & specialized training company developed to design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all private villas on St. Barts and on 11 other Caribbean islands for over 23 years. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority manages Ronald Reagan turn destinations & companies around with elite team of industry experts. provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. www.wimco.com National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport serving the Greater Washington, DC region including Northern Virginia and suburban www.hospitalitygrowthsolutions.com www.princess.com ADVERTISING AGENCY Maryland. Last year, the Airports Authority welcomed over 17 million passengers to Reagan National Airport and over 23 million passengers to May Hinds Consulting Inc. Royal Caribbean International/Celebrity Cruises Ltd. May Hinds Consulting Inc. is a Barbados-based regional consultancy Royal Caribbean International was founded in 1969 and currently has a fleet Fitzgerald+CO Dulles International Airport. company specializing in people development, training and business of 21 ships. Our guests have an appetite for new experiences and an interest Fitzgerald+CO is one of the leading brand-building agencies in the www.mwaa.com development. Our mission is to assist businesses in optimizing their in activities that take them out of the ordinary, connect them with other Southeast. Part of the Interpublic Group of Companies, the global agency performance through developing their human resources and management people and enable them to explore new places and learn about other specializes in advertising and public relations campaigns geared to ASSOCIATION systems to deliver high quality services. cultures. encouraging travellers to choose Caribbean destinations. www.mayhindsconsulting.com www.royalcaribbean.com www.fitzco.com Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association A not-for-profit trade organization composed of 15 member cruise lines Sixel Consulting Group Green Team Advertising operating more than 100 vessels in Floridian, Caribbean and Latin American LOCAL ORGANIZATION The Sixel Consulting Group team brings a collection of varied backgrounds to Green Team is a New York-based marketing consultancy that specializes in waters, providing a forum for discussion on legislation, tourism development, the field of air service development. We are former airline and airport Barbados Tourism Investment, Inc. sustainability-related issues, products and programs. Our mission is to inform, ports, tour operations, safety, security and other cruise industry issues. executives, airline analysts, data junkies, and even former aviation journalists. The development agency of the Government of Barbados with special inspire and awaken brands so that people, planet and business can all www.f-cca.com We use all these skills to make the best cases for additional service in more responsibility for facilitating investment in the tourism and hospitality sector in thrive. We achieve this by developing sustainability strategies, creative than 50 current client markets around the country. Barbados. campaigns and training programs to enhance business results for our clients. Saint Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association www.sixelconsulting.com www.barbadostourisminvestment.com www.greenteamusa.com A business member organization which functions as the primary intermediary for tourism service providers while influencing issues on tourism development. Terra Forma Developments Ltd. Sustainable Travel International Interspace Airport Advertising West Indies Ltd. www.slhta.org Terra Forma Developments Limited serves as a Developer or as the Prime Sustainable Travel International has been working with Caribbean destina-

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tions since 2002 to generate tangible results and effect systemic change. Our New York Post holistic approach to sustainable tourism engages stake holders through a STR The New York Post is the preeminent daily newspaper in New York. Readers strategic planning process that leads to innovative sustainable tourism STR is the recognized leader in hotel performance data and provides access love the Tuesday travel section, best sports coverage, awards winning The Atrebor Group Inc. initiatives and significant "triple bottom line" impacts. to hotel research with regular and custom reports covering North America, business news, page six and the entertainment. An award winning agency with around-the-clock services, a multilingual staff www.sustainabletravel.com Mexico and the Caribbean. STR offers reports covering daily and monthly www.nypost.com and a true understanding for the art of public relations. With a keen hotel performance, forecasts, annual profitability, pipeline and census understanding of the development process of comprehensive, strategic Tourism Development Corporation information. The New York Times marketing campaigns that succeed in enhancing image and building The Tourism Development Corporation is a private, non-profit organization www.str.com For over 150 years, reading The New York Times has been an important part business, we offer our clients targeted, value-driven services. that functions as an excellent catalyst for tourism development in Barbados of every day for a large audience of influential consumers. And that high www.atreborgroup.com by directing member contributions in support of qualified, sustainable MEDIA level of reader engagement and loyalty continues today, making The Times overseas marketing and on-island product enhancement initiatives. one of the most attractive advertising opportunities anywhere. REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY [email protected] BRANDING/GRAPHIC DESIGN www.nytimes.com Christophe Harbour Development Company Tourism Enhancement Fund Opusseven, Inc. PROGRAMME PRODUCER Undiscovered. Destined to be Unsurpassed. The Tourism Enhancement Fund was established on May 1, 2005 for the sole Branding is our expertise. Using simple, yet effective tools – online, print, and Set on the Eastern Caribbean isle of St. Kitts, Christophe Harbour promises an purpose of implementing the recommendations emanating from the Master visual media – we infuse the art of master story-telling into the latest Gabriela Moennig island life enhanced by exclusive amenities, services guided by expert Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development, 2002. The Tourism Master Plan technology. Your brand is showcased with the charisma, charm, and allure Production of half an hour shows for TV or ‘on demand’, e.g. Africans or hands, experiences made authentic by Kittitian heritage, and rare provides the framework in which the Tourism Enhancement Fund will fulfill its of an engaging story produced with the rich vibrancy of gripping special Asians based in the Caribbean, or Caribbean people living in Germany. Caribbean real estate opportunities umatched in the region. mandate of promoting growth and development in the tourism sector, visuals. Preferably stories that link the Caribbean with the rest of the world. www.christopheharbour.com encouraging better management of environmental resources in the island, www.opusseven.com www.bio-film.com/en enhancing the overall tourist experience, and providing for the sustainable TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY development of the tourism sector. MAGAZINE WEBSITE (INFORMATIONAL) [email protected] AGC Roaming AFAR MarryCaribbean.com The company’s “RoamPal” service permits denied roamers to establish a MARKETING COMPANY Travel is changing. The world has grown smaller, more accessible, yet MarryCaribbean.com is the best single source for all couples planning to prepaid account and use the networks of visited wireless carriers. homogenized and less exotic. Today’s travellers want to get beyond the honeymoon or get married in the Caribbean. MarryCaribbean harnesses a www.roampal.com BarkleyREI superficial, the mass-produced, the mass-consumed, and the unique marketing approach and heightens visibility and brand exposure A full service, interactive marketing agency that specializes in tourism and mass-experienced. They look for the authentic in people, places, and things. through timely editorial and leverage from strategic alliances. We are an TOUR OPERATOR/TRAVEL PACKAGER travel, consumer lifestyle brands, higher education and cultural and Introducing AFAR Media: for a different kind of travel. advocate for all things Caribbean and the voice of authority in the non-profit categories and provides digital branding, creative design, web www.afar.com travel/honeymoon market. Caribbean Travel Network and application development and online marketing. www.MarryCaribbean.com Caribbean Travel Network operates the region’s largest network of travel www.rippleeffectsinteractive.com Bon Appétit websites, offering online bookings for hotel, flights and car rentals across the Bon Appétit focuses on what's current and stylish, while still providing readers PUBLIC RELATIONS AGENCY Caribbean. Blue Group Media with valuable cooking tools and tips. It's 'life through the lens of food'-cooking www.caribbeantravelnetwork.com We are an interactive marketing firm founded in 2004. We have spent the in, dining out culture, travel, entertainment, shopping, and design-and Bon Adams Unlimited last few years creating amazing websites for our clients, and we are pretty Appétit is the only food lifestyle publication out there. Adams Unlimited is a dynamic, boutique marketing communications agency TravelSpan Vacations good at it. We have partnered with organizations to help them increase www.bonappetit.com that provides personalized service to a select group of clients. Based in New TravelSpan is an air travel company with a difference. With over 15 years of sales, maximize marketing efforts, and ultimately grow their brands. York City, the media capital of the world, Adams Unlimited has 24 years experience and thousands of satisfied passengers, TravelSpan is an www.bluemediagroup.com Bridal Guide experience in travel and hospitality public relations and marketing. established tour operator specializing in discounted airfares and vacation Six times a year in print and 24/7 on the web, Bridal Guide and www.adams-pr.com packages to the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago and Burrell Communications Group, LLC bridalguide.com reach millions of brides-to-be with inspiring and practical throughout the Caribbean. Burrell is one of the nation’s leading marketing communications agencies. ways to plan the wedding, honeymoon and new home of their dreams. Argyle Communications www.travelspan.com Founded in 1971, the company offers its clients advertising, public relations, www.bridalguide.com Argyle Communications is an award-winning Canadian public relations, promotions, digital campaigns and event marketing. digital communications and consumer marketing firm. Headquartered in TRAVEL AGENCY www.burrell.com Caribbean Travel & Life Toronto since 1979, Argyle's specialties include travel and tourism, consumer Caribbean Travel & Life provides a broad and deep package of inspiration goods, corporate and financial communications, health and wellness and CruiseOne Development Counsellors International and expert information to readers whose enthusiasm about traveling to the public affairs. CruiseOne is the premiere company for cruise and land vacations. We DCI is the leader in marketing places. Since 1960, we have worked with 400+ Caribbean goes beyond mere vacationing and amounts to an extension of www.argylecommunications.com continually win awards from all major cruise lines and our propriety booking destinations to help them attract both investors and visitors. We specialize in their lifestyles. and reservation system is incomparable. We offer passengers the best price all areas of travel marketing including public relations, destination represen- http://www.bonniercorp.com/brands/Caribbean-Travel-Life.html Cheryl Andrews Marketing Communications guarantee. tation, travel trade marketing and MICE. A leader in travel, hospitality, luxury and real estate PR with over 20 years of www.MyCruiseOnline.com www.aboutdci.com Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine success, CAMC has built a reputation for quality service, not because we say Canada’s premier travel and lifestyle magazine, published 8 times a year so, but because our impact on our clients’ revenues proves it. Dream Vacations Unlimited, LLC ISM. travel, leisure & lifestyle marketing. with an average readership of 265,000. www.cam-pr.com We are a full service travel company, therefore we can provide information We focus on marketing premier travel, leisure and lifestyle brands to the www.dreamscapes.ca on your best air, car, hotel, rail and cruise options. We have preferred affluent consumer. Among the clients that have turned to ISM for our Laura Davidson Public Relations relationships with suppliers and can provide ways to receive value added expertise and problem solving are Abercrombie & Kent, American Express, Essence Communications LDPR is an innovative travel and lifestyle public relations agency based in discounts from them. Barbados, Emirates, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Harley-Davidson and Essence is the voice for Black women. The magazine celebrates Black New York City. We work with prestigious clients from around the globe www.dreamvacationsunlimitedllc.com the United Nations Foundation. women unique style and beauty, drive her cultural conversation and inspire including destinations, tour companies, private islands, hotels and resorts. Our www.ismboston.com her to action and achievement. Essence shows Black women how to live unique culture is defined by our collaborative, strategic and creative Indar Weir Travel Centre without limits. approach to working with clients and the media. Since its opening on October 1st 1997 the IWTC has been providing travel Marketplace Excellence www.essence.com www.ldpr.com services of the highest standards to leisure & corporate travelers. Our Marketplace Excellence Corp. is a full service, integrated marketing firm expertise includes: Destination management, travel agency, group & sports committed to excellence in the fields of public relations, marketing and Robb Report Magazine Lou Hammond & Associates tours, weddings, incentive travel, cruises, meetings & logistic services. media coaching.At Marketplace Excellence, we assemble world class talent Since its 1976 launch as a newsletter for Rolls-Royce owners, Robb Report has Established in 1984, Lou Hammond & Associates (LH&A) has dedicated its www.caribbeanvacationsonline.com into a center of excellence that expedites the delivery of products and set the standard for evoking the passions and products that shape the resources, energies and talents to serving the premium lifestyle industry services to the global marketplace. personal and business lives of the ultra-affluent. Provocative writing and rich worldwide. Through strategic communications programs that emphasize swift Jadd Fong Travel www.marketplaceexcellence.com photography capture the essence of life lived to the fullest by active, vibrant action, creative solutions and a global perspective, LH&A has earned the A professional registered company in the state of New York, providing individuals. respect of the media and its long-term client base for its work in the travel, cruises, vacation packages, car rental, airline bookings, hotel & rail but MMGY Global www.robbreport.com consumer products/design, food and wine, fashion, real estate and specializes in Caribbean Travel. We are America’s leading marketing services company serving travel, leisure hospitality sectors — building a reputation for service, reliability and www.jaddfongtraveldeals.com and entertainment clients. Our Insights group is widely acknowledged as the NEWSPAPER unmatched flair. preeminent source of market intelligence on emerging business and leisure www.louhammond.com TOURISM AGENCY travel trends. The firm surveys leisure travellers annually in the Portrait of Metro US American Travelers (SM), and co-authors the quarterly travelhorizonsTM The #6 largest newspaper in the nation, #1 worldwide, with US editions in Quinn + Company IRT survey with the U.S. Travel Association. over 100 cities. $1 in New York, Boston and Philadelphia. Official partner of Quinn + Co. is an award-winning NYC-based public relations agency that L’île de La Réunion Tourisme (IRT), the agency responsible for tourism in La www.mmgyglobal.com Fodors Travel. specializes in food, wine + spirits, real estate and travel. We rank among the Réunion, is an ‘Association’ in conformity with the French law of 1901, www.metro.us top 10 travel PR firms and among the top 15 professional services (Including benefits from European funding and receives support from private sector real estate) public relations companies in the US. providers as part of partnership agreements. www.quinnandco.com www.reunion.fr ACCOMMODATIONS Marketing concessionaire working exclusively with airports and cruise ports. Consultant for a variety of land development projects throughout the region. The Humane Society International Programs promote Caribbean companies and generate revenues for the As such, we have been responsible for coordinating the services of many HSI works to protect all animals worldwide. In many developing areas with Caribbean Professionals whose regional knowledge and interaction HOTEL CHAIN ports. limited access to infrastructure and markets, communities engage in www.iaateam.com contributes immensely to a successful project activities that are harmful to animals and their habitat-hunting for food, www.terraformadevelopments.com Starwood Caribbean Collection selling animals for the international pet trade, etc. Ecotourism gives local Starwood Caribbean Collection features the best resorts, the best locations; JWT Atlanta communities a non-extractive method for capitalizing on their natural The Edmunds Group International, LLC Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort; Westin Resort, Aruba; Westin St. John, USVI; We are a full-service advertising agency, offering our clients an integrated resources. A multi-disciplinary firm offering specialized consulting services to businesses, Westin Resort & Spa, Cancun; Sheraton Puerto Rico; W Retreat & Spa suite of strategic, creative and engagement services all under one roof. We www.hsi.org governments and organizations worldwide. TEG provides strategic advice Vieques Island, Puerto Rico; and Four Points at Palmas Del Mar, Puerto Rico. deliver results for our clients by discovering authentic insights and bringing to and advocacy to help clients identify new opportunities and address www.starwoodresorts.com/travel-professional life ideas that entertain, inspire, inform and persuade. www.jwt.com/atl CARGO LINE challenges in the global marketplace. www.theedmundsgroup.com CARIBBEAN HOTEL AFFILIATE Tropical Shipping USA, Inc. Tropical Shipping is one of the leading containerized cargo carriers in the Casa de Campo EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION Caribbean region. From its headquarters at the Port of Palm Beach, Tropical Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic is entering a new era with new Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association currently operates 15 vessels, serves 28 ports and 43 offices and receive Culinary & Hospitality Management Institute (CHMI) hotel rooms, main area, restaurant and more. When combined with its CHTA, founded in 1962, represents the entire spectrum of the hospitality locations throughout the US, Canada, Bahamas and the Caribbean. The Culinary and Hospitality Management Institute (CHMI) is a centre of renowned sports and world-class facilities, Casa de Campo indeed reigns as industry’s private sector including 36 national hotel associations across the www.tropical.com excellence for culinary and hospitality management studies. The Institute the Caribbean’s Most Complete Resort. Your story begins here… Caribbean region, over 850 hotel members with approximately 125,500 enjoys key strategic industry partnerships, which facilitates ready access and www.casadecampo.com.do rooms, and more than 600 supplier companies represented as ‘Allied’ broad exposure of students to hotel properties, resort facilities and tourism members. CARIBBEAN-BASED BUSINESS professionals throughout the country and across national and global industry Divi & Tamarijn Aruba www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com Branmarc Ltd. networks. Divi Aruba all-inclusive is a 201 room AAA three diamond beachfront hotel. “How well do you know our twin islands” is an eductaional and fun game www.cob.edu.bs Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive is a 233 room property, all oceanfront. Guests to National Tour Association that provides fun family time. The product is a 280 piece puzzle with 52 each property have exchange privileges to all amenities. The National Tour Association is a trade organization of thousands of tourism attractively illustrative cards depicting sites of Trinidad and Tobago. www.diviaruba.com; www.tamarijnaruba.com professionals involved in the growth and development of the packaged FINANCIAL INSTITUTION [email protected] travel industry. We are committed to providing business opportunities and Banco Popular Jade Mountain professional education in an environment where our members can foster Cave Shepherd & Co. Ltd. Founded in 1893, Popular, Inc. is the No 1 bank by both assets and deposits in Rising majestically above the 600 acre beach front resort of Anse Chastenet, relationships with one another. Over the past century, Cave Shepherd & Co. Ltd has transformed itself from Puerto Rico and ranks 35 largest by assets among US banks. In the US, Jade Mountain Saint Lucia is a cornucopia of organic architecture www.ntaonline.com a traditional local department store into a diversified regional business whose Popular has established a community banking franchise providing a broad celebrating St Lucia’s stunning scenic beauty. The bold architectural design interests encompass its retail heritage as well as financial services, interna- range of financial services and products with branches in New York, – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and AIRLINE tional business, wealth management, property management and tourism. California, Illinois, New Jersey and Florida. rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky – makes Jade www.caveshepherd.com www.popular.com Mountain Saint Lucia one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort American Airlines experiences. American Airlines has served the Caribbean for more than four decades St. John Specialties Caribbean Financial Services Corporation www.jademountain.com and together with its regional partner, American Eagle, serves more than 30 destinations in the Caribbean, the Bahamas and Bermuda in the Atlantic. Premier, full-service DMC with over 29 years experience in the US Virgin Caribbean Financial Services Corporation (CFSC) was founded in 1984 as a Islands. Event planning on the highest level – weddings, incentive group regional financial services company. A collaborative enterprise between The Fairmont Royal Pavilion American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 activities, corporate events and more. Endless possibilities. private companies, international development agencies and multinational Imagine an elegant and secluded 15 acre beachfront hideaway that cities in 50 countries with, on average, more than 3,600 daily flights. www.stjohnspecialties.com and domestic financial institutions, CFSC provides its services throughout the captures the warmth and style of a Barbadian home. The Fairmont Royal www.aa.com English-speaking Caribbean, with a focus on the Windward and Leeward Pavilion, with 72 oceanfront rooms, has built up an enviable position for Islands and Barbados. service and luxury. Caribbean Airlines Ltd. CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION www.cfsc.com.bb www.fairmont.com/RoyalPavilion Step on a Caribbean Airlines flight and you’ll feel like you’re in the The Travel Foundation Caribbean. It’s our job to make sure you experience the warmth, colour An independent UK Charity, funding and managing over 30 projects in 16 VACATION OWNERSHIP and magic of the most beautiful islands in the world. Caribbean Airlines. Air GENERAL destinations around the world. It is the leading resource for the travel industry Jamaica. Two brands. One airline. on sustainable tourism in the UK. Cititech Computer Services, Inc. Interval International www.caribbean-airlines.com www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk Cititech blends creative, strategic planning with expert knowledge to tackle Interval International operates membership programs for vacationers and the toughest challenges for businesses. Our Staff and Management Team provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Spirit Airlines have over 25 years experience in the Technology Industry. Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving The largest Ultra Low Cost Carrier (ULCC) in the United States, Latin America CONSULTANCY www.cititechsolutions.com the vacation ownership market for more than 33 years. and the Caribbean. As the unbundling leader in the industry, Spirit allows Deloitte and Touche - Cayman Islands www.intervalworld.com consumers the option of paying only for the features they value without Deloitte is the brand under which tens of thousands of dedicated profession- subsidizing the choices of others. Its all-Airbus fleet, the youngest in the als in independent firms throughout the world collaborate to provide audit, VILLA RENTAL Americas, flies more than 150 daily flights to 40 destinations. INTERNATIONAL CRUISE LINE consulting, financial advisory, risk management, and tax services to selected www.spiritair.com clients. Princess Cruises West Indies Management Company www.deloitte.com/view/en_KY/ky A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess Cruises offers its WIMCO (the West Indies Management Company) is the leading Caribbean AIRPORT AUTHORITY passengers the opportunity to escape completely to the top destinations luxury villa vacation and boutique hotel reservations specialist. The Hospitality Growth Solutions around the globe on a fleet of 17 modern ships renowned for their innovative company, with its Caribbean partner, Sibarth Villa Rentals, has represented Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority HGS is a hospitality consulting & specialized training company developed to design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all private villas on St. Barts and on 11 other Caribbean islands for over 23 years. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority manages Ronald Reagan turn destinations & companies around with elite team of industry experts. provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. www.wimco.com National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport serving the Greater Washington, DC region including Northern Virginia and suburban www.hospitalitygrowthsolutions.com www.princess.com ADVERTISING AGENCY Maryland. Last year, the Airports Authority welcomed over 17 million passengers to Reagan National Airport and over 23 million passengers to May Hinds Consulting Inc. Royal Caribbean International/Celebrity Cruises Ltd. May Hinds Consulting Inc. is a Barbados-based regional consultancy Royal Caribbean International was founded in 1969 and currently has a fleet Fitzgerald+CO Dulles International Airport. company specializing in people development, training and business of 21 ships. Our guests have an appetite for new experiences and an interest Fitzgerald+CO is one of the leading brand-building agencies in the www.mwaa.com development. Our mission is to assist businesses in optimizing their in activities that take them out of the ordinary, connect them with other Southeast. Part of the Interpublic Group of Companies, the global agency performance through developing their human resources and management people and enable them to explore new places and learn about other specializes in advertising and public relations campaigns geared to ASSOCIATION systems to deliver high quality services. cultures. encouraging travellers to choose Caribbean destinations. www.mayhindsconsulting.com www.royalcaribbean.com www.fitzco.com Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association A not-for-profit trade organization composed of 15 member cruise lines Sixel Consulting Group Green Team Advertising operating more than 100 vessels in Floridian, Caribbean and Latin American LOCAL ORGANIZATION The Sixel Consulting Group team brings a collection of varied backgrounds to Green Team is a New York-based marketing consultancy that specializes in waters, providing a forum for discussion on legislation, tourism development, the field of air service development. We are former airline and airport Barbados Tourism Investment, Inc. sustainability-related issues, products and programs. Our mission is to inform, ports, tour operations, safety, security and other cruise industry issues. executives, airline analysts, data junkies, and even former aviation journalists. The development agency of the Government of Barbados with special inspire and awaken brands so that people, planet and business can all www.f-cca.com We use all these skills to make the best cases for additional service in more responsibility for facilitating investment in the tourism and hospitality sector in thrive. We achieve this by developing sustainability strategies, creative than 50 current client markets around the country. Barbados. campaigns and training programs to enhance business results for our clients. Saint Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association www.sixelconsulting.com www.barbadostourisminvestment.com www.greenteamusa.com A business member organization which functions as the primary intermediary for tourism service providers while influencing issues on tourism development. Terra Forma Developments Ltd. Sustainable Travel International Interspace Airport Advertising West Indies Ltd. www.slhta.org Terra Forma Developments Limited serves as a Developer or as the Prime Sustainable Travel International has been working with Caribbean destina-

CTO PREFERRED PARTNERS

60 www.CaribbeanTravel.com ACCOMMODATIONS Marketing concessionaire working exclusively with airports and cruise ports. Consultant for a variety of land development projects throughout the region. The Humane Society International Programs promote Caribbean companies and generate revenues for the As such, we have been responsible for coordinating the services of many HSI works to protect all animals worldwide. In many developing areas with Caribbean Professionals whose regional knowledge and interaction HOTEL CHAIN ports. limited access to infrastructure and markets, communities engage in www.iaateam.com contributes immensely to a successful project activities that are harmful to animals and their habitat-hunting for food, www.terraformadevelopments.com Starwood Caribbean Collection selling animals for the international pet trade, etc. Ecotourism gives local Starwood Caribbean Collection features the best resorts, the best locations; JWT Atlanta communities a non-extractive method for capitalizing on their natural The Edmunds Group International, LLC Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort; Westin Resort, Aruba; Westin St. John, USVI; We are a full-service advertising agency, offering our clients an integrated resources. 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From its headquarters at the Port of Palm Beach, Tropical Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic is entering a new era with new Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association currently operates 15 vessels, serves 28 ports and 43 offices and receive Culinary & Hospitality Management Institute (CHMI) hotel rooms, main area, restaurant and more. When combined with its CHTA, founded in 1962, represents the entire spectrum of the hospitality locations throughout the US, Canada, Bahamas and the Caribbean. The Culinary and Hospitality Management Institute (CHMI) is a centre of renowned sports and world-class facilities, Casa de Campo indeed reigns as industry’s private sector including 36 national hotel associations across the www.tropical.com excellence for culinary and hospitality management studies. The Institute the Caribbean’s Most Complete Resort. 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www.CaribbeanTravel.com 61 AIR TRAVEL GETTING THERE Getting to the Caribbean from the United States and Canada is relatively easy. Check with individual airlines for current routes and airfares. More information may be obtained at www.CaribbeanTravel.com. The following list was accurate at the time of the printing of this publication and is subject to change without notice.

From the USA:

AMERICAN AIRLINES AIR JAMAICA DELTA AIR LINES ASERCA CAYMAN AIRWAYS JETBLUE AIRWAYS BAHAMASAIR CONVIASA AIRLINES SPIRIT AIRLINES CARIBBEAN AIRLINES COPA AIRLINES TACA AIRLINES

Here is a sampling of airlines that operate intra-Caribbean, and some that have service between Latin America and the Caribbean.

ISLAND CHARTER FLY MONTSERRAT ST. BARTHS COMMUTER ABACO AIR GOL SUN COUNTRY AEROPOSTAL GRENADINES AIRWAYS SURINAME AIRWAYS AIR ANGUILLA INSEL AIR SVG AIR AIR TURKS & CAICOS INTER-ISLAND AIR TIARA AIR AMERICAN EAGLE ISLA NENA TRANSANGUILLA AVIANCA LIAT TROPIC AIR BVI AIRWAYS MAYA ISLAND AIR UNIVERSAL AIRLINES CAPE AIR MIAMI AIR WINAIR CUBANA AIRLINES SEABORNE AIRLINES VENEZOLANA DUTCH ANTILLEAN EXPRESS SKY SERVICES VIEQUES AIR LINK

Service from Canada can either be Charter or scheduled. Charter operators are:

AIR CANADA VACATIONS TRANSAT* SUNQUEST VACATIONS* WESTJET SIGNATURE* SUNWING

Scheduled** service from Canada is provided by:

AIR CANADA JAMAICA UNITED AIRLINES AMERICAN AIRLINES CUBANA AIRLINES US AIRWAYS CARIBBEAN AIRLINES / AIR DELTA AIR LINES WESTJET

* Charters could be SkyService, Transat, Canjet ** Scheduled air via USA, except Air Canada, Cubana, Caribbean Airlines / Air Jamaica and Westjet

Book Your Next Caribbean vacation using a Caribbean Specialist travel agent. Contact us to find one in your area. 212-635-9530 - [email protected]

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