Caribbean

The Caribbean blends turquoise waters and vibrant island culture with historic ports, lush landscapes, and a relaxed pace of travel.

Discover our featured destinations below.

Best For:

Travelers seeking warm-weather escapes, vibrant island culture, and a blend of relaxation and exploration.

Best Months:

December–April for dry season sunshine; May–June and November for fewer crowds and better value.

Travel Style:

Beach days, colorful harbor towns, cruise ports, reef snorkeling, rainforest hikes, and easy island living.

Budget level:

Wide range — from luxury resorts and cruise vacations to boutique stays and value-friendly island escapes.

Eastern Caribbean

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The Eastern Caribbean captivates in all the right ways. Shaped by colonial history and framed by vivid turquoise waters, it blends colorful harbor towns, lush volcanic peaks, and powder-soft beaches with an island rhythm that feels both vibrant and restorative. From UNESCO-listed Bridgetown in Barbados to the dramatic Pitons of St. Lucia and the reef-lined shores of Antigua, the region offers a compelling mix of culture, coastline, and natural beauty. It remains one of the Caribbean’s most rewarding regions for travelers seeking both comfort and discovery.

Explore our in-depth guides below for the destinations and experiences we’ve come to appreciate most.

Dominica

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In a region known for beaches and resorts, Dominica charts its own course.
This is the Caribbean’s “Nature Island,” where volcanic mountains rise above emerald rainforest and waterfalls spill toward rugged coastline. From UNESCO-protected landscapes to the vibrant waterfront of Roseau, Dominica offers an experience that blends adventure with restoration — perfect for travelers seeking something deeper.

Explore our in-depth guides below for the destinations and experiences we’ve come to appreciate most.

Puerto Rico

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Puerto Rico moves to its own rhythm. Salsa spills into historic plazas, Atlantic waves crash beneath centuries-old fort walls, and lush rainforest unfolds just beyond the city. With Old San Juan’s colorful streets, El Yunque’s tropical canopy, and beaches on every coast, the island delivers culture, adventure, and relaxation in equal measure.

Explore our in-depth guides below for the destinations and experiences we’ve come to appreciate most.

caribbean

Caribbean FAQs

Safety varies by island and region, but many Caribbean destinations are well-developed, tourism-focused, and accustomed to welcoming international visitors. Popular islands such as Barbados, Antigua, St. Lucia, Puerto Rico, and Grand Cayman see steady visitor traffic each year. As with any destination, staying in well-reviewed accommodations, being aware of your surroundings, and following local guidance enhances your experience. Most travelers find the Caribbean warm, friendly, and easy to navigate.

The most popular time to visit is during the dry season, typically December through April, when sunshine is abundant and humidity is lower. May and early June often offer excellent value with fewer crowds. Hurricane season runs from June through November, with peak activity generally between August and October, though many islands continue operating normally outside of major storm events.

The Caribbean offers a wide range of travel styles and budgets. Luxury resorts, private villas, and upscale dining are widely available, but so are boutique guesthouses, locally owned inns, and cruise options that bundle accommodations and transportation. Traveling during shoulder season or exploring less-developed islands can provide strong value while still delivering memorable experiences.

Four to seven days works well for a single-island stay or cruise itinerary. Travelers combining multiple islands may prefer 10–14 days to explore at a relaxed pace. Because each island has its own personality, spending enough time to go beyond the beach allows for a deeper appreciation of local culture, cuisine, and natural landscapes.

On some islands, especially larger ones like Puerto Rico or Jamaica, renting a car provides flexibility to explore beyond resort areas. On smaller islands, taxis, guided tours, and cruise excursions make getting around straightforward without driving. Your need for a car depends on the island’s size and how independently you prefer to travel.

English is widely spoken on many islands, including Barbados, Antigua, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. Spanish is the primary language in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba, while French and Dutch are used on several other islands. In most tourism-focused areas, visitors can navigate comfortably in English.