The Caribbean is a special place because it’s loved by everyone. No matter what part of the world you come from, you will find it difficult to disagree that this part of the world is simply paradise. The crystal clear exotic waters that shimmer in the sun, and sand as soft as a newborn baby. Tall palm trees that gently sway in the ocean winds. It’s marvellous in every way.
But getting to the Caribbean Islands is not easy, as they are in between South and North America. They’re also further out toward the Atlantic Ocean than any other piece of major land. Thus for airlines they are a bit of a challenge to get to. However, if you’re heading down to the Caribbean, you will find that going by ship is a lot easier and more fun. Since there are multiple islands to explore on your travels, it’s better to bounce from island to island in a ship than having to board a new plane each time. The Caribbean is far from unfamiliar when it comes to cruise ships these days, so choosing an adventure that uses this mode of transport and accommodation is the best option.
A Cunard special
If you’re British, you’ve probably heard of Cunard by now. They are perhaps the last company to build ocean liners instead of cruise ships. These types of vessels are designed to transport customers in complete luxury and comfort. Cruise ships are heavier, slower and do not handle as well out in the open oceans. Ocean liners, on the other hand, are durable and designed with stability in mind. This way, even a strong wave won’t upset you while you’re enjoying a spot of fine dining.
The Caribbean Celebration by Cunard on the Bolsover Cruise Club website shows the kind of itinerary you can expect. All in all, it will be a 13-day voyage, whereby you’ll set off from the Big Apple i.e. New York City. You’ll travel down to the Caribbean Islands and make 5 different stops. When you’re done shopping and exploring, it will be time to head back up to New York City. Everything is taken care of in your ticket purchase. This includes accommodation, meals and room service if you’ve bought an upper echelon ticket.
Home away from home
The British Virgin Islands are some of the most incredibly beautiful of all the Caribbean. For those of you that are British, this may feel like a home away from home. Here you’ll find around 50 small islands, all close together and acting as pieces to a paradise puzzle. The largest island is Tortola, which is where the administration of the island occurs in Road Town. The population is that of a small town, numbering around 12,000. Plenty of vegetation surrounds the island, so you never feel out of touch with nature on this beautiful rock.
Just eastward, across a small stretch of water is the third-largest island of Virgin Gorda. Here is perhaps where you’ll find the best nightlife. Spanish Town is full of restaurants, bars and lots of places where you can go for late night walks on the beach. Head over to the CoCoMaya restaurant for a bit of Asian fusion cuisine. How could you leave the British Virgin Islands, without trying some of the best seafood in the world.
A dual-nation island
Your third stop will be at St. Kitts and Nevis, a rare dual-island nation. It’s the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere for landmass but also for the population. It’s a Commonwealth nation, with the Royal Anthem of God Save The Queen, and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is the Head of State. The population is around 55,000. Instead of finding lush green vegetation, you’ll see slightly more pale green fields and lots of clouds rolling through the hills. In classic Caribbean style, the capital Basseterre has colourful buildings and lots of amber lamps. This makes the small capital look incredibly beautiful when the sun goes down. But you may never want the sun to go down in the first place because Turtle Beach has a view you would do anything to witness.
Looking further south, you’ll see the second island of Nevis. Off in the distance, that amazing small green island is surrounded by crystal blue waters. And of course, as the name suggests, Caribbean turtles can sometimes be seen swimming by the coastline. It’s worth the trip over to Nevis, just to go to Le Bar. A chilled, relaxing bar, with classic reggae music playing late into the night, is married beautifully with an exotic cocktail. Try out some of the local snacks such as barbecued corn with some herbs and spices.
Dominica
Dominica is your final stop in the Caribbean. Dominica is perhaps the most iconic island because the culture of the island people is so strong. A large population of Dominican people, have established themselves in America. Their Caribbean attitude is known the world over. Glorious waterfalls are littered across the island. Trafalgar Falls is perhaps the most spectacular of them all but it’s further inland. There’s so much vegetation that has been left untouched by the hand of humankind. The mist rolls down the hills every morning, only to be created by the lukewarm ocean waters. While you’re here, you must rent a canoe or kayak and go paddling down one of the gentle rivers that flow throughout the island. The rock chasms are a picturesque paradise, covered in steam and moss. Cruise ships regularly dock at DASPA i.e. Dominica Air & Sea Ports Authority. From here you can easily head into Canefield for some shopping and go to one of the restaurants serving local cuisine.
Crossing the Caribbean should only be done by ship. You’ll have more than enough time to shop and explore each island, but you’ll not have to wait around for a flight to get you to the next location. The incredible weather, the different cultures and the beaches are what makes the Caribbean Islands a pure paradise and well worth the trip.
*Collaborative Post*