Lush and wild, St Lucia’s mountainous interior is covered by a thick rainforest. Strung along the leeward (Caribbean) coastline from Marigot to Rodney Bay are a string of resorts aimed at both couples and families. While the island is one of the Caribbean’s most popular honeymoon destinations, it draws a wide range of holidaymakers who are looking to do more than simply lie at the beach. St Lucia’s iconic Pitons, twin volcanic peaks that frame a picture-perfect bay, also draw divers who want to explore the steep drop-off lined with coral and sponges. While far from picturesque, the capital, Castries, has an exceptionally large market offering locally made crafts and other products. And after dark, who can resist the Gros Islet ‘Jump-Up’, a sometimes raucous street party with pulsing music and delicious (and inexpensive) food and drink.

Who goes there?
The island draws a mix of Americans and British holidaymakers and honeymooners, particularly during the high season from December through April, when the temperatures are comfortably warm but still tolerable. The period from June through November is the Caribbean hurricane season, which can have periods fine, sunny weather, but is also prone to periods of both high heat and humidity.

Where in the world?
St Lucia is one of the Windward Islands in the Caribbean. The primary airport, Hewanorra, is at the southern tip of the island, approximately 65km (40 miles) south of the main resort area; the transfer takes about 90 minutes.

Most of the island’s resorts are strung along the northwest coast of the island, from Marigot Bay to Rodney Bay, a few minutes’ drive north of the capital, Castries. A few resorts are strung along the hilly coast mid-island, near the town of Soufrière.

Beach
The best beach on the northwest coast is golden-sand Reduit (pronounced red-wee) Beach on Rodney Bay. St Lucia is a volcanic island, so the sand tends to be coarse and the water not absolutely clear. Further south, beaches have darker, volcanic sand. The most dramatically beautiful is Anse des Pitons, which is directly between St Lucia’s famous Pitons on Jalousie Bay.

Beyond the beach
St Lucia’s verdant rainforest beckons to be explored, or sailing trips will take you along the leeward coast all the way to the famous Pitons. The twin mountains can even be climbed by the daring and physically fit, though a guide is required. Several working plantations now welcome visitors for tours and a lunch of local foods. And the island’s active ‘drive-in’ volcano can also be visited on regularly scheduled tours.

Family fun
Since all the large holiday resorts are set directly on the beach and offer organised programmes for children, the island is an ideal family destination. Kids especially enjoy a trip aboard the Brig Unicorn, a modern replica of a historic sailing ship that was used in the film Pirates of the Caribbean.

Retail therapy
Castries has a sprawling craft market, where you can buy such locally produced spices as cocoa, nutmeg, and vanilla essence, as well as locally made wood carvings, brooms, and other affordably priced souvenirs. There are also several duty-free shopping malls in the Castries and Rodney Bay areas. Locally made batik and silkscreen fabrics are of good quality; names to look out for include Caribelle Batik and Bagshaw Studios.

A night on the town
The island’s best party is the Friday-night Gros Islet Jump-Up, when the streets of the small town just north of Rodney Bay are turned into a large dance party. Expect to hear loud, reggae-influenced dance music. This is one party that is not just for holidaymakers, as it is equally popular with locals, who come to dance, mingle, and eat and drink from the well-priced stands selling barbecue chicken and fish.

Eating out
While resorts will give you a proper full English breakfast, do take time to check out some of the local specialities such as curried chicken and goat, lambi (conch), and the many fragrant, locally grown tropical fruits. A liquid from a green coconut, chopped off at the end, is a refreshing and cooling beverage.

Getting around
The island’s roads can be tedious and difficult to drive, so most holidaymakers stick with guided tours, particularly for longer trips to the south. It’s possible to rent a car after buying a temporary driving permit (approximately £10/US$20). Mini-buses follow regular routes and provide efficient, safe, and inexpensive public transport, particularly if you are just looking to travel from your resort to the nearest shopping centre; pay with local currency.

Exploring further afield
The 40-minute flight from the Vigie Airport near Castries to Barbados makes it possible to do a day tour and return in time for dinner. St Lucia is well connected to other Caribbean islands by reasonably priced flights for those who wish to spend a few days on more than one island.

Splashing out
Few experiences are more relaxing than sitting on the terrace of Dasheene Restaurant at the Ladera Resort, 3km (2 miles) south of Soufrière, sipping a Piton beer, and watching the view between the twin mountains 500ft below.

Flying in
St Lucia – Hewanorra (UVF)

Picture perfect is how visitors refer to Pinney’s Beach. The rarely crowded shore, with its soft, powdery, white sand and calm waters, caught the eye of tropical vacationers after Four Seasons built a luxury resort there. Pinney’s is on the quiet island of Nevis. Because of the high quality sugar once produced there, the isle was known as the Queen of the Caribbees. Sugar mill ruins still dot the island’s undulating landscape as does a pristine wilderness that green vervet monkeys, orchids and shimmering butterflies call home.

Who goes there?
Certainly not party animals. It is for travellers who like to chill and escape the cold climes as well as honeymooners and those who prefer small quaint inns and lazing in hammocks to huge, glitzy megahotels and casinos. Nevis attracts mainly couples and sometimes families, mostly well off Americans, Canadians and Brits.
Where in the world?
Pinney’s Beach is on the northwestern side of the island of Nevis, West Indies 322km (200 miles) south of Puerto Rico. It is off the Main Road just north of Charleston and about 8km (5 miles) southwest of the airport. Overlooking the Caribbean, the beach backs up to a grove of palm trees and a tropical lagoon.
Beach
On a sunny day, the 6.5km (4-mile) stretch of golden sand is the ideal place to catch rays, walk along the water or stop for some refreshment at the Four Seasons Resort, the beach pavilion of the Golden Rock Plantation Inn or one of the several casual beach bars on its shoreline. After a rain Pinney’s is still beautiful but the water sometimes become murky and full of kelp.
Beyond the beach
Enjoy the scenery. In the shadow of Mount Nevis sits the botanical gardens, Montpelier Estate, a pot pourri of lagoons, waterfalls, birds, rose gardens and greenery. Take a hike or a horseback ride to explore the mountainous rainforests, historic ruins and abandoned sugar plantations. Play a round of golf. Nevis has three sets of links, the Four Seasons’ 18-hole Robert Trent II, a two-hole and a 12-hole course. Stroll through Charlestown. It won’t take long. The town is tiny, but Alexander Hamilton’s birthplace, now the site of the Museum of Nevis History is there. Just outside of Charlestown is the Nelson Museum. It has a fine collection of the admiral’s memorabilia. It was during his tour of duty on Nevis that Lord Horatio Nelson met his wife, Frances Nesbet.
Family fun
Though Four Seasons has a children’s club, this is a place for families to have quality time together. Tots, teens and parents can lounge on the beach, snorkel or take a break from the sand and go hiking.
Retail therapy
Shoppaholics forget about that spree. It is not going to happen here. Nevis is just not known for its shopping. Even though islanders will tell you that the island is known for its honey, it is sometimes tough to find. What you will find are hand-embroidered clothing, colourful postage stamps, batik and a few art galleries.
A night on the town
Except for a couple of beach bars, entertainment in Nevis is low key. A night on the town is pretty tame, mostly live music tied to a themed dinner at a hotel. During the season, steel or string bands or a local calypso singer perform at various venues. Posters pasted to doorways announce ‘jump ups’ (informal street parties). Probably the most happening place is the Wednesday West Indian happy hour at Eddy’s Bar & Restaurant (Main Street, Memorial Square, Charlestown). Dancing and karaoke goes on into the night.
Eating out
Dining ranges from grilled lobster at romantic, restored plantation houses to West Indian cuisine like goat stew. Meals are complemented with local in-season fruits and vegetables. A singular experience is dinner at Miss June’s Cuisine, Jones Bay. It is dinner and drinks in her home, where she treats each diner as a special guest to which such notables as Oprah Winfrey and novelist John Grisham can attest.
Getting around
The Main Road circles the island and runs parallel to Pinney’s Beach along the eastern (Leeward) shore. You turn off the Main Road to drive down Pinney’s Beach Road to get to the beach, Sunshine’s, Four Seasons, and so on. Privately owned mini-buses with names like Postman, Energizer and Marlon Brando across their windshields serve as the island’s public transportation. Stand on the side of the road in the direction you are heading and just flag them down. Car hire is also available.
Exploring further afield
Take the ferry across the narrows and discover St Kitt’s, Nevis’ sister island. It is just 3 km (2 miles) away, but quite different as is evidenced by the mega Marriott Resort and the cruise ship pier. Trinkets and treasures can be found in the palm-shaded capital, Basseterre at Circus, patterned after London’s Piccadilly Circus. Brimstone Hill, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the fortress where the18th-century battles between the British and French took place. The somewhat restored Romney Manor, which is said to have once been owned by Thomas Jefferson, is certainly worth a look.
Splashing out
Pinney’s Beach bars are known for fun and decadent drinks. Double Deuce (very close to Pinney’s Beach Hotel) has its Double Deuce Stinger Punch accompanied by Thursday night karaoke while Sunshine’s Beach Bar & Grill has its Killer Bee and Sunday night beach parties. Anyone who sips more than one of these potent concoctions is likely to find himself the life of the party or passed out on the beach. Or try Mango at Four Seasons, which has live music.
Flying in
Nevis International Airport (NEV)

Despite its strong Spanish heritage, Puerto Rico has been largely Americanized as a United States commonwealth. US and Puerto Rican flags fly side by side. One of the Caribbean’s largest islands, Puerto Rico is a land of distinct contrasts. About 75% mountainous, it contains deserts, high mountains, rich rainforests, an extensive underground cave system and many beautiful beaches. Its crown jewel is tiny seven-block Old San Juan, once completely enclosed by a city wall and guarded by one of the hemisphere’s mightiest fortresses. Today, it is a picturesque residential, commercial and historic district ranking as one of the region’s favourite ports of call.

Who goes there ?
Many Puerto Ricans are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish. Their fluency combined with the island’s numerous natural and man-made attractions brings visitors from North and South America and Europe. San Juan’s large beachfront hotels and casinos draw couples and honeymooners year-round. Puerto Rico is far enough south not to be affected by winter cold fronts, though the active hurricane season from August through November may impact travel.

Where in the world ?

Puerto Rico, 177km (110 miles) long and 56km (35 miles) wide, is east of the Dominican Republic and just north of the US and British Virgin Islands. San Juan’s Luis Marin International Airport, located 14km (9 miles) northeast of San Juan, is the island’s main airport and the Caribbean’s major interconnecting hub.Many of the new mega-resorts are located on the beach at Isla Verde, a short taxi ride from the airport. Although Old San Juan may appear the ideal spot, hotels there are scarce except for El Convento in the heart of the old city. Arguably the country’s most famous hotel, it began in the 1600s as the New World’s first Carmelite convent before becoming one of the world’s more unique resorts.

Beach
In the San Juan area, the beaches at Isla Verde and the more famous Condado merge together; where one ends the other begins. Outside the city, Luquillo Beach 48km (30 miles) to the east is considered the country’s finest. Playa Dorado, just west of San Juan, is actually a series of beaches especially popular with families. More remote areas of the island also boast good strands.

Beyond the beach
The most popular day trip from San Juan is El Yunque, a genuine tropical rainforest only about 45 minutes away. Walks at lower altitudes are easy on paved paths. These popular trails require a hard surface to accommodate both heavy foot traffic and combat possible erosion from sometimes torrential rains. There are true wilderness hiking experiences at higher, less visited altitudes.

Family fun
Many of San Juan’s beachfront resorts offer organised programmes and special themed restaurants for children. Leisurely walks in Old San Juan are always fun. The highlight there is exploring the interior of the mighty El Morro Fortress that rises 19.8m (65ft) above the pounding sea. If it’s windy, bring a kite and join the locals on the fort’s expansive open grounds.

Retail therapy
Thanks to the constant influx of cruise ships, Old San Juan is a shopper’s paradise, especially for jewellery, art works, leather goods and locally-made souvenir items. Designer clothes and shoes are available in the nearby Condado and Isla Verde areas. San Juan has the Caribbean’s largest shopping mall, the three-storey Plazas Las Americas with more than 250 shops containing all the chain stores and brands found in the US.

A night on the town
Many Caribbean islands snooze when the sun goes down. In Old San Juan, dusk signals the opening of lively nightclubs, quaint taverns and outdoor cafés .The locally-produced Bacardi rum is the featured flavour. Only 90 minutes from San Juan is Las Cabezas de San Juan, a natural reserve where a dazzling bioluminescent lagoon sparkles like a million fireflies. You can do more than just admire the glittering water. Jump in, go for a swim, swirl around and create some elfin magic of your own.

Eating out
Genuine Puerto Rican dishes are a blend of African, European, and Amerindian influences. The best way to sample real local flavours is at any of the small cafés. Even if no one speaks English, the menu will probably have English translations. Be adventurous and have some fun.

Getting around
Travelling around San Juan is easy. Buses wind through San Juan and taxis are readily available at hotels and major sites. Outside of the city pủblicas (shared vans), which are recognisable by yellow licence plates containing ‘P’ or ‘PD,’ are most economical. Car hires are readily available at Marin International Airport. Roads are excellent near San Juan and most major nearby attractions. Signage, however, is sometimes lacking. Secure a map and precise directions before setting out. Driving is on the right.

Exploring further afield
Puerto Rico has two very different and appealing offshore islands. Culebra offers gorgeous white sand beaches and many wildlife watching opportunities, including nesting sea turtles between April and July. Uninhabited Mona Island is a miniature Galapagos with iguanas, sea birds and nesting sea turtles. In addition, the US and British Virgin Islands are only a short plane hop away.

Splashing out
The stylish El San Juan Hotel and Casino (6063 Isla Verde Avenue, Isla Verde) is the most popular after-dark gathering place for casino gaming and dancing and the ideal place for people-watching. View it all from a stool in the large lobby bar or from one of the quiet side tables.

Flying in
Luis Marin International Airport (SJU)

Ocho Rios is known as the ‘garden parish’ because of its lush tropical flora and exotic fauna, magnificent waterfalls and winding rivers. The coastal island town also boasts one of Jamaica’s most popular attractions, Dunn’s River Falls. Cruise ships frequently dock here, unloading thousands of passengers into the town’s craft markets, duty-free shopping areas, beaches and restaurants. Like all Jamaican towns, Ocho Rios is alive with reggae music and tourists who meander along the beaches and through the open-air restaurants and markets. Movie buffs know that ‘Goldeneye’, the luxurious former estate of James Bond author Ian Fleming, is just a few miles east of town. It’s been converted into a high-end resort.

Who goes there?
Honeymooners flock to the many couples-only resorts and snap photos in front of the scenic waterfalls and gardens. Ocho Rios is also a favourite destination of American, British and Canadian tourists under the age of 40, who, among other things, appreciate the fact that English is the country’s native language. Tourism is slowest between June and November, which is hurricane season in the Caribbean.
Where in the world?

Ocho Rios is situated on the northern coast of Jamaica, 111km (67 miles) east of Montego Bay and 73km (46 miles) west of Port Antonio. The closest airport is Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, 73km (46 miles) away, a two-hour drive away.The coastal town has the lush Dry Harbour Mountains behind it.
Beach
Expect crowds on the Ocho Rios beaches, especially when cruise ships are in town. The most beautiful spot is Dunn’s River Falls Beach, a small beach at the foot of the town’s famous waterfalls. Turtle Beach is less scenic but equally busy, since it’s used by both residents and tourists. James Bond Beach has scenic mountains behind it and you’re likely to spot turtles swimming in the water at Reggae Vibes Beach.
Beyond the beach
The rivers and waterfalls in and around Ocho Rios make for lovely kayaking, hiking and exploring trips. Dunn’s River Falls’ 183m (600ft) waterfall is a must-see. You can swim near the pounding falls, and if you dare, hike up the slippery rocks. A quieter alternative are the nearby YS Falls. Horseback rides are offered along the beach or through the historic, 600-acre Annandale Plantation, a place the Queen Mother once visited. Non-cowboys can tee off 213m (700ft) above sea level at Sandals Golf & Country Club (on Main Street) or bike ride through the Blue Mountains. A drive through Fern Gully (on Route A3) a natural canopy of vegetation, lets you glimpse at hundreds of different fern species.
Family fun
Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cove (adjacent to Dunn’s River Falls), or float lazily on river rafts on the nearby White River or Black River. For a little more adventure, kids can tube, bungee jump or bounce on a water trampoline at the small beach near Island Village (at Turtle River Road and Main Street). The most memorable and educational experience might be the Jamaica Tourist Board’s ‘Meet the People’ programme, which lets you visit a local school or spend a day with Jamaican families. Arrangements must be made in advance. Many of the all-inclusive resorts are child-friendly, with kid clubs, activities and swimming pools. At the Franklyn D Resort & Spa (on Runaway Bay) each family is even assigned a ‘vacation nanny’ on arrival.
Retail therapy
Shoppers can choose from several malls, but Island Village (at Turtle River Road and Main Street) is an open-air market that sells Jamaican handicrafts and duty-free items. Unique terracotta items are sold at Wassi Art Pottery Works (Bougainvillea Drive, Great Pond) and people drive a few minutes outside of town to purchase hand-carved wooden boxes made by Annabella Proudlock. The locally made Blue Mountain coffee is a popular souvenir and available at most shops.
A night on the town
Reggae music can be heard in most bars and clubs, as this is Bob Marley’s native country. Most clubs are within the many large all-inclusive resorts. Margaritaville Caribbean Bar & Grill (in Island Village) (website: www.margaritavillecaribbean.com) is always filled with wild partying young Americans, and there’s usually a Caribbean revue being performed at Little Pub (on Main Street). For couples, lit torches can guide your way on a slow, romantic nighttime river raft down the White River.
Eating out
Something for every mood and budget can be found. A cheap, tasty sampling of Jamaican jerk chicken can be found at Ocho Rios Village Jerk Centre (DaCosta Drive). Pictures of celebrity guests line the wall at Evita’s Italian Restaurant (Mantalent Inn, Eden Bower Road), where they combine Jamaican and Italian in dishes like fiery jerk spaghetti. The bar’s swinging rope chairs and the tasty fish dishes make Almond Tree (Hibiscus Lodge Hotel, 83 Main Street) one of the town’s most popular spots. Ruins at the Falls (17 DaCosta Drive) is a waterside restaurant offering a mix of international and local cuisine.
Getting around
Tour guides or taxis are the best means of transportation, because you’ll probably get lost if you try to navigate the roads on your own. Also, rental cars are very expensive in Jamaica. If you let your taxi driver serve as your tour guide, be sure to negotiate the price before getting into the car. Walking and public transportation also is discouraged because of crime outside the resort areas.
Exploring further afield
Just west of Ocho Rios is Prospect Plantation (Highway A1), a place full of history and interesting flora, some of which Winston Churchill planted himself. Tours, given on open-air tractors, offer spectacular views of the White River gorge. Just a few kilometres outside town is Shaw Park Gardens (Park Ridge Road) (website: www.shawparkgardens.com), a lovely botanical park. A day-trip to Kingston, the country’s gritty capital, will give you a taste of the real Jamaica. While there, check out the Bob Marley Museum (56 Hope Road), a pilgrimage destination for reggae music fans.
Splashing out
Hire a deep sea fishing boat and try to hook a blue marlin, the area’s prime catch, or spend a day cruising through the Jamaican rainforests on all-terrain vehicles, stopping to zip on ropes from treetop to treetop. Sooth your sore muscles at the clifftop KiYara Ocean Spa at the Jamaica Inn (on Main Street) (website: www.jamaicainn.com), known for its top-quality treatments using native plants. The resort’s gourmet restaurant offers a six-course dinner under the stars, with live music, but formal attire is required.
Flying in
Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Laid-back Negril is known as Jamaica’s ‘capital of casual.’ It is less developed than the island’s other resort towns, although it is still filled with hotels, restaurants and shops ranging from low-end to fancy. Negril became a popular destination in the 1970s, when American hippies flocked there to smoke ganja (marijuana) and jam to the island’s empowering and rebellious reggae music. Since then, the town has evolved into a more upscale tourist destination. It’s best known for its beautiful Seven Mile Beach, frequently ranked among the best beaches in the world.

Who goes there?
Negril’s tourists are predominantly Americans under the age of 40, but many Canadians and British also come to seek refuge from their cold winters. The busiest tourist months are between November and April. In the summer, which is hurricane season in the Caribbean, the number of tourists shrinks and the number of local festivals soars. In recent years, Negril has grown in popularity with American college students, who come for wild, drunken partying during spring break.

Where in the world?

Negril is on the western tip of the island of Jamaica, located in the Caribbean Sea just south of Cuba. It is 89km (55 miles) west of Montego Bay Airport, about a two-hour drive.Negril overlooks Long Bay on the island’s western tip, with mostly flat terrain but mountain ranges to the west.

Beach
The famous Seven Mile Beach (approximately 11km/7 miles) has aqua blue water, white sand, scenic cliffs, little bays and many friendly vendors and open-air restaurants. Big all-inclusive resorts are on the north end, with smaller, family-run hotels on the south end. Besides lounging in the sun with a cold drink, there are dozens of different water activities available, including scuba diving, fishing and tubing. West End Road, just south of Negril, is the area’s best place to snorkel, dive, and if you dare, cliff jump off 12m (40ft) bluffs.

Beyond the beach
Travelling into Negril’s hidden nooks or up into the lush mountains is a pleasurable change-of-pace from the beach. The rushing waterfalls and mineral springs at Mayfield Falls are fun, and a sunset cruise is a must. It can be combined with a late-afternoon snorkelling trip or a stop at a private beach. For the best view of the island, climb to the top of the century-old Lighthouse at West End Road.

Family fun
Let the boys go fishing while girls get their hair braided with beads along the beach. Most restaurants are kid-friendly, and the beaches offer a wide range of watersports suitable for all ages. Explore caves at Roaring River, a natural area just outside Negril, or for equestrian lovers, Rhodes Hall offers two-hour horseback rides through banana and coconut groves, high into the hills and along the beach, with stops for crocodile watching.

Retail therapy
The island’s favourite coffee, Blue Mountain, and its homemade Appleton Rum can be purchased at most shops. Fine handmade cigars are sold at Cigar Kin, in the Time Square Mall (Norman Manley Boulevard). Ja-Ja Originals, a studio and art gallery located at Coco La Palm Resort on Norman Manley Boulevard, features a unique selection of art by local artists.

A night on the town
Margueritaville Negril (on the beach on Norman Manley Boulevard) claims the title of Negril’s hippest party bar and features 52 tropical flavours of margaritas. Live music is always playing at Alfred’s Ocean Palace, on Norman Manley Boulevard. The circular dance floor is always packed at The Jungle and at Hedonism II (both on Norman Manley Boulevard), which hosts toga and pyjama parties.

Eating out
Jamaica is filled with little restaurants serving spicy, tasty jerk-flavoured meat, rice and cold Red Stripe beer. But the culinary offerings in Negril go far beyond that. Hunan Garden Chinese Restaurant at Country (Negril Beach Road) is the island’s only authentic Chinese restaurant and even serves dim sum on Sunday mornings. For a romantic night out, Kuyaba (Norman Manley Road) has fine dining alongside waterfalls, tropical foliage and exotic birds. Another spot for lovebirds is Xtabi’s (Lighthouse Road). The candle-filled restaurant is perched on a cliff overlooking the bay and serves fresh-caught fish.

Getting around
Jamaica is working hard to overcome its reputation for crime, but in the meantime, it’s not wise to roam around the island on foot. Public transportation is only recommended for the intrepid tourist. Motorbike rentals are available, as are numerous guides who can take you wherever you want to go. Using taxis is preferable to renting cars, as prices are high and the roads are tough to navigate.

Exploring further afield
The Negril Yacht Club (Westmoreland) offers day trips to relaxing Little Bay, or the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. Think up your own itinerary and they’ll do a custom tour for you. If you’re a fan of the movie How Stella Got Her Groove Back, you can go past the luxurious house featured in the film, which is just outside Negril, in Hanover.

Splashing out
Crowds gather to watch the beautiful sunset each night at Rick’s Café, the cliffside bar that’s famous for its Planter’s Punch (a combination of rum and fruit juice) and the clear view of cliff divers at West End Road. In the evenings, the bar has some of the island’s best live band performances. During the day, splurge on a private helicopter ride to Port Antonio and Navy Island, where you can have a gourmet picnic on a secluded beach and see the 1930s home of Hollywood star Errol Flynn. The high-end Couples Swept Away Negril contains one of the best sports complexes in the Caribbean.
Flying in
Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Mo Bay, as it’s nicknamed, is the most popular tourist spot in Jamaica. Despite its reputation for crime, tourists flock here for its beautiful beaches, top-rate golf courses, and bustling town near the main airport. The ‘hip strip,’ along Gloucester Avenue, is constantly abuzz with restaurants, nightclubs and shops, and it’s a huge port for American cruise ships. It may be noisy and untidy in some places, but Montego Bay is also lively and colourful. The town is divided into three sections: the hotel area, the city itself, and then the outlying beach and hillside areas.

Who goes there?
Americans, Canadians and Brits in search of an English-speaking, Caribbean party town find Montego Bay to be ‘irie!’ (‘great!’). It’s also popular with golf enthusiasts and reggae music fans, since it is the homeland of reggae legend Bob Marley. World-renowned performers visit for Reggae Sunfest, held in the summer, and the Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival, held each January.

Where in the world?
Montego Bay is on the northwest coast of the island of Jamaica, the Caribbean’s third largest island, located in the western Caribbean just south of Cuba. It’s less than 5km (3 miles) from the Montego Bay Airport. The flat coastal area along Montego Bay has lush mountain areas to the south.

Beach
Low mountains and the sparkling clear aqua sea make Doctor’s Cave Beach the nicest place to relax in the sand with a cold drink or check out open-air restaurants and stores. The water is calmer at Walter Fletcher Beach, where there are watersports ranging from water trampolines to jet-skis. Scuba divers seek out the wall in Airport Reef, in the Montego Bay Marine Park, known for its coral caves, tunnels and steep canyons.

Beyond the beach
Montego Bay has several championship-level golf courses, including Ironshore SuperClubs (Breezes), Tryall (North Coast Highway, Sandy Bay) called ‘one of the meanest golf courses in the world,’ and the White Witch (Ritz-Carlton). The island’s sole casino, Coral Cliff, is located on the hip strip. Ever hour, in the Half Moon Shopping Village (Half Moon Resort, North Coast Highway, 11km/7 miles east of Montego Bay), a video documentary on reggae pioneer Bob Marley is shown. For a little spook, visit Rose Hall (North Coast Highway), the plantation that was once home to the voodoo-using murderess Annie Palmer.

Family fun
Anyone age eight and up can swim with bottlenose dolphins at Dolphins Cove, or let the animals pull them along for a ride. More carnival-styled fun is at Aquasol Theme Park, at Walter Fletcher Beach, and for a little culture lesson, the Jamaican Tourist Board has a free program called ‘Meet the People,’ in which you can spend a day with a Jamaican family, school or gardener. Arrangements must be made in advance.

Retail therapy
Market Street is full of, yes, markets, where you haggle the price of everything from wood carvings to T-shirts. Jamaican rum and High Mountain coffee are popular souvenirs, and can be purchased at most stores. The most upscale shopping is in Half Moon Village, just east of the Half Moon resort.

A night on the town
Most of the lively clubs are within the major resort hotels, most of which offer dinner and disco packages to non-guests. Hurricanes Disco (Breezes Montego Bay Resort) and Walter’s (39 Gloucester Avenue) are among the non-resort favourites.

Eating out
Local specialities, jerk-flavoured meats and Red Stripe beer, are on almost every menu, with the no-frills Port Pit (27 Gloucester Avenue), among the favourites. Local fish dishes, like bammie (a toasted flat wafer eaten with fish), ackee and saltfish are served at Marguerite’s (Gloucester Avenue). For a taste of home, Royal Stocks English Pub & Steakhouse, in Half Moon’s Shopping Village (North Coast Highway, 11km/7 miles east of Montego Bay), is a dark-panelled pub serving shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash and fish and chips. A good ol’ American cheeseburger is available at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville (Gloucester Avenue) or at The Brewery on Miranda Ridge (Shop 4, Gloucester Avenue).

Getting around
Jamaican roads are filled with potholes and unmarked streets, which often get washed out during rain storms. Public transportation (minibuses, buses and route taxis) are only recommended for the courageous tourist. That’s why guided tours and licensed taxis are the recommended way to get around. Walking is not recommended because of potential crime.

Exploring further afield
Just west of Montego Bay is Lucea, a coastal town with a 17th-century fort. Just east of there is Falmouth, a town filled with old churches and interesting architecture. At night, take a boat ride through its Luminous Lagoon and see glow-in-the-dark fish. If you’re a fan of Jamaica’s jerk spice, you can tour the King Pepper factory that produces much of the jerk seasonings.

Splashing out
Massages at KiYara Spa at the Jamaica Inn (Main Street, Ocho Rios, St Ann) are in thatched-roof huts with views of the sea. Guests of The Ritz Carlton Golf & Spa Resort (Ritz-Carlton Road, Rose Hall, St James), can call upon their own bath butler, who will let them choose from a ‘bath menu’ and then draw their bath in a beautiful marble tub. Arrangements can also be made for romantic nights, like a violinist on a private moonlit catamaran ride.

Flying in
Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Measuring only 19km (12 miles) by 34km (21 miles), the Caribbean island of Grenada has long been known as the ‘Spice Basket of the Caribbean,’ an apt name since Grenada supplies about a third of the world’s nutmeg. Grenada claims as many as 45 different beaches, but none compares to 3km (2-mile) long Grand Anse Beach, ideally situated on the sheltered leeward southwest coast. Only a short distance from the capital city of St George’s, Grand Anse is Grenada’s most popular beach and main resort area with accommodations ranging from guest houses and small luxury hotels to 240-room mega-resorts. All the properties are richly landscaped, a preview to what you’ll see in Grenada’s lush mountainous interior, especially the rainforest.

Who goes there?
The lack of direct flights from North America or Europe makes Grenada one of the more challenging islands to reach. Americans and Canadians make up most summer visitors, followed by British holidaymakers who flock there to enjoy the sunny weather when average temperatures range from 24ºC to 30ºC (75ºF to 85ºF), always moderated by the cooling trade winds. The high season also marks the start of the driest period, from January to May.
Where in the world?
Grenada, with its sister islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique, are located at the southern end of the Windward Islands in the eastern Caribbean. Its nearest neighbours include Barbados and Venezuela. Point Salines International Airport (GND) is located just outside the capital city of St George’s, close to the resorts on Grand Anse Beach. The transfer takes between 10 to 15 minutes.

Most resorts are near St George’s on the southwest coast, many less than 8km (5 miles) from the airport. The finest lodging is along Grand Anse Beach, followed by L’Anse aux Epines.
Beach
Lined with large hotels containing more than 200 rooms as well as small locally-owned inns, 3km- (2 mile-) long Grand Anse Beach is Grenada’s waterfront showcase. Located on Grenada’s calm leeward south coast and packed with activities, at Grand Anse you can go water-skiing, parasailing or kayaking, join a snorkel or dive boat tour for fish-filled waters nearby or simply sunbathe. In the evening, Grand Anse is one of the main nightlife centres with its excellent array of hotels bars and restaurants. In the past, beach peddlers were sometimes an annoyance but no longer since a vendors market was built near the Grand Beach Resort. It’s now one of the best places for local souvenirs.
Beyond the beach
The main port city of St George’s and its horseshoe-shaped harbour called the Carenage are quite photogenic. The city’s Saturday morning market is always a lively open-air affair with mounds of papayas, yams, oranges, bananas, plantains, exotic roots and vegetables piled atop display tables. The system of hiking trails in the Grand Etang Forest Reserve includes both casual walks and strenuous day-long hikes.
Family fun
Grenada markets itself largely to couples and honeymooners, so the best place for families to stay is on Grand Anse Beach at a larger hotel with organised programmes for children. Many of the shorter hiking trails in the Grand Etang Forest Reserve are perfect as an introduction to the Caribbean’s rainforest. In summer, join a nighttime excursion to watch nesting sea turtles.
Retail therapy
Most of the duty-free shops are located along St George’s waterfront Carenage or at Point Salines International Airport. The Saturday produce market in St George’s is the perfect place to purchase small souvenir baskets of nutmeg and other local spices. You may also find hand-made dolls and other one-of-a-kind handicrafts. In St George’s retail stores, the best buys are batik and screen-printed textiles, locally made handicrafts, leather craft and wood carvings.
A night on the town
Once the sun sets, experience the wide variety of flavourful dining unless you’re a truly experienced scuba diver feeling especially adventurous. If so, make a deep dive on the wreck of the Italian luxury liner the Bianca-C, one of the Caribbean’s largest ship wrecks, where you could see unforgettable nightlife, such as sleeping fish and sea turtles.
Eating out
With so many savoury spices readily at hand, even basic dishes in the smallest restaurants tend to be ultra-flavourful. Grenada’s specialities include pumpkin and callaloo soups, spicy stuffed crab backs, curried or stewed shrimp and conch, fresh fish and Creole cuisine. The national dish is called Oildown, a stew of salted meat, breadfruit, onion, carrot, celery, dasheen (a root vegetable grown locally) and dumplings, all slowly steamed in coconut milk. Nutmeg is included in everything from ice cream to mashed potatoes.
Getting around
The winding roads with unexpectedly sharp turns through mountainous terrain create more stress than most visitors care for in a hire car. Guided minibus tours are the most popular option for visiting attractions away from St George’s. Buses and taxis also link all parts of the island. Ferry service is another way to visit the sister island of Carriacou and return the same day.
Exploring further afield
The neighbouring island of Carriacou, only a 30-minute flight from Port Salines, is an interesting daytrip that offers a glimpse of how slow-paced Grenada used to be. Carriacou is the most populated island in the Grenadines, and its main attractions are sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving. The island’s finest beach is scenic Anse La Roche.
Splashing out
Grenada’s Nutmeg Restaurant (The Carenage, St George’s), a long-time favourite watering hole with locals and visiting yachtsmen, boasts a superb second-storey view over St George’s colourful harbour both day and night. You don’t need to order a full meal; just dessert and a drink will earn you a scenic table. More upscale is the newer Water’s Edge restaurant and bar, located just up the street for a different harbour view.
Flying in
Grenada, Point Salines International Airport (GND)

Boasting a series of wide white beaches that stretch nearly uninterrupted for 50km (31 miles), Punta Cana was almost completely undeveloped just 40 years ago. Now it’s a busy international holiday destination, with 20,000 rooms scattered among more than 30 large hotels and resorts, almost all offering all-inclusive meal and beverage plans. It has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most affordable destinations in the Caribbean, as well as one of its friendliest, thanks to the Dominican Republic’s lively, Spanish-influenced culture and music. More recent projects, including the in-progress Cap Cana development with its Jack Nicklaus golf courses, are targeting a better-heeled visitor.

Who goes there?
Punta Cana’s resorts were discovered first by Europeans, who still make up the majority of visitors, coming for two-week or longer stretches year-round. It’s especially popular with couples, families with children, and honeymooners. Between December and April, a larger number of visitors are couples aged 25-55 from the United States and Canada.
Where in the world?

Punta Cana is on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with its smaller neighbour Haiti. Depending on the resort, it is 15-65km (10-40 miles) from the airport.What is commonly called Punta Cana is really a string of interconnected beaches, including Bavaro, Macao and Punta Cana. The resorts line the beach, overlooking the part of the Caribbean that meets the Atlantic. Inland, the land is tropical jungle, rising to rolling hills.
Beach
Punta Cana’s sugar white sand beaches, lapped by turquoise waves, are perhaps the prettiest in the Dominican Republic. The beaches attached to hotels are well-populated with tourists, who can enjoy stretching on a sun lounger or take part in watersports such as parasailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing or deep-sea fishing. But farther afield are more isolated stretches, where you may be one of only a few holidaymakers.
Beyond the beach
Golfers can choose from five courses, with green fees surprisingly low. Or experience the famous Dominican hospitality with a 4-wheel drive tour of the countryside; day-long excursions usually include a drive through the jungle, a break for swimming at a deserted stretch of beach, a typical lunch (beans, rice, plantains and chicken) at a Dominican home, and visits to caves and sugar-cane fields.
Family fun
Most stretches of beach around Punta Cana are perfect for kids, with mild surf for splashing. Children will especially enjoy the dolphin, sea lion and parrot shows at Manati Park Bavaro (Carretera Manati) (website: www.manatipark.com), a theme park that also includes a replica of a native Taino village.
Retail therapy
The tiny beach village of El Cortecito, located smack in the middle of the strip of beachside resorts, is set up for tourists, with shops and strolling vendors selling locally-produced rum, cigars, batik sarongs and amber jewellery, plus T-shirts, hats and other touristy souvenirs. Haggling is expected, and part of the fun. The hotel gift shops and shopping arcades sell much the same wares, plus resort wear at slightly higher prices. For a cheap, authentic souvenir, duck into a grocery for aromatic Dominican-grown coffee.
A night on the town
Nightlife in Punta Cana centres on the resorts; most have a nightly show featuring costumed dancers performing to native merengue and bachata music, and almost all have a disco where guests can dance into the early hours. Several casinos, including those at the Barcelo Bavaro complex (Bavaro Beach) and the Riu Palace Macao (Playa Arena Gorda), offer slots, blackjack and craps tables.
Eating out
Punta Cana is not a gourmet’s destination, but there’s plenty of variety. Most guests take meals at their all-inclusive resorts, which typically offer a daily buffet with continental/Dominican cuisine plus speciality restaurants offering Italian, Asian, burgers, pizza and more. Off the resort grounds, popular choices include the beachside Captain Cook’s (Playa El Cortecito) where guests are whisked by water taxi for parillada mixta, which is grilled fish, shrimp, baby lobster and squid, or the hip Jellyfish (Carretera Bavaro), where pasta, crêpes and seafood are served in a two-storey, free-form building somewhat resembling, yes, a jellyfish.
Getting around
Many hotel packages include shuttle transport between hotel and airport. Once deposited at their resort, many visitors rarely leave. It’s easy to walk along the beach from one resort to another; hail a water taxi or regular taxi for the ride home. Hire cars are available from major agencies, but driving can be a risky proposition due to narrow, haphazardly marked roads and reckless drivers. Adventurous travellers can try catching a guagua, the small buses that locals use to get around, or even a motoconcho, a motorcycle pressed into service as a taxi.
Exploring further afield
The small city of Higuey, about 45 minutes inland by car, has few true tourist attractions, other than its starkly modern cathedral, the Basilica, but it’s a great place to sample real Dominican life: view the offerings at a colmado (a small grocery); buy peeled pineapple and mango slices from vendors; swig an icy Presidente beer. On the way there, look for photo ops at La Otra Banda, a tiny village of traditional clapboard houses, painted in vivid tropical colours.
Splashing out
Make the two-hour drive to Altos de Chavon, an artists’ complex built on bluffs overlooking the Chavon River to resemble a 16th-century Italian village. Shops nestled on the cobblestone streets sell fine art, handcrafted jewellery, and stylish clothing; enjoy homemade pasta and imported antipasto at the romantic La Piazzetta, where the chef hails from Northern Italy.
Flying in
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)

The first beach destination developed for tourism in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata, remains one of its most popular, with a long string of affordable beachfront resorts and a reputation as one of the best spots for windsurfing in the world. The city of Puerto Plata, meaning ‘Port of Silver’ in Spanish, dates to 1502, but much of its charm is from its Victorian-era architecture, such as pastel buildings with gingerbread details, and its warm, Dominican-style friendliness. Most of the hotels are all-inclusives catering to package tourists and are built on Playa Dorada, about 10 minutes to the east of the city proper. The resort can also serve as a gateway to the rest of the North Coast resorts, including laid-back Cabarete (famous for kiteboarding) and Sosua, a budget-friendly beach village with low-cost shopping and dining and good snorkelling.

Who goes there?
Younger, budget-oriented, athletic travellers, primarily from Europe, Canada and the United States, are attracted to Puerto Plata, thanks to its array of modestly-priced resorts and its great watersports.
Where in the world?

Puerto Plata is on the north-central coast of the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with its smaller neighbour Haiti. The resort area is 16km (10 miles) from Puerto Plata Airport.Puerto Plata is at the heart of the North Coast, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The city is built at the base of Isabela de Torres; flat beaches rise to green mountains deeper in the interior.
Beach
There are, perhaps, more picturesque sites elsewhere; the beige-sand beaches here are somewhat narrow and the water isn’t as vivid a shade of turquoise as in some other parts of the Caribbean. Still, beaches here are festive, with crowds of locals and tourists enjoying music piped in by loudspeaker, and vendors offering waverunners, parasailing and other watersports.
Beyond the beach
Puerto Plata and its environs are packed with historical and cultural points of interest. Overlooking the harbour is San Felipe Fort, a remnant of the 16th-century colonial architecture and the oldest building in the city. The Taino Art Museum (Arawak Plaza) illustrates the history of the indigenous people, pre-Columbus, and the Amber Museum (Calle Duarte 61) displays a gorgeous collection of amber, including the piece holding a mosquito that was used in Jurassic Park.
Family fun
Older kids and teens may enjoy trying their hand at windsurfing or sailing, but the surf is often too rough for little ones to splash safely. At Ocean World (Cofresi Bay) (website: www.oceanworld.net), a marine animal park just 5km (3 miles) from Puerto Plata, kids can watch a dolphin or sea lion show, pet a sting ray or nurse shark, snorkel with thousands of colourful tropical fish, and even feed a Bengal tiger at the jungle-like Tiger Grotto.
Retail therapy
This area of the Dominican Republic is sometimes also called the Amber Coast, for its large deposits of the semiprecious stone, and silver jewellery featuring amber is a universally popular souvenir. Other popular buys are bold paintings (often done in neighbouring Haiti); cigars, also made locally, and aromatic Dominican-grown coffee.
A night on the town
The larger resorts all have their own discos where guests can dance until the early hours. Hemingway’s Café (Playa Dorada Plaza) is popular for its occasional live bands (merengue, rock or reggae) as well as its karaoke and DJ nights. Three casinos open nightly for table games and slots.
Eating out
Although many guests take most of their meals at their all-inclusive resorts, which typically offer a daily buffet with continental/Dominican cuisine plus speciality international restaurants, the city of Puerto Plata has many other choices. Eat traditional arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) or mangu (buttery mashed plantains) at many tiny, cheap cafés catering to locals. Or for more Western fare, try Sam’s Bar & Grill (Calle José del Carmen Ariza 34), a longtime expat hangout serving good steaks, or Aquacero’s (Malecon 32), where you can dine on reasonably priced seafood on the waterfront promenade in town.
Getting around
Some hotels have shuttle buses that ferry guests to shopping centres and casinos; the casinos will also pay for your taxi ride. The local buses, called guaguas, run frequently and can be hailed from the main road outside the resorts; they are both cheap and a good way to meet locals. Hire cars are available from major agencies, but driving can be a risky proposition due to narrow, haphazardly marked roads and reckless drivers. The very cheapest option? Hop on a motoconcho, a motorcycle that its owner has pressed into service as a taxi.
Exploring further afield
Just an hour south of Puerto Plata is Santiago, a refined city of one million people. Recognised as the birthplace of the national music form, the merengue, the city still has a great nightlife, with clubs full of local fashionistas, and the country’s best Carnival celebration. A city tour should include the central park, Parque Duarte; the cathedral; a museum such as the Tobacco Museum or the Tomas Morel Museum of Folkloric Arts, featuring colourful carnival masks; and the Monument a los Heroes de la Restauracion, built on a hill above the city to honour war heroes and offering sweeping city views.
Splashing out
Book a treatment at posh Bagua Spa, housed in Puerto Plata’s most exclusive resort, Casa Colonial (Playa Dorada) (website: www.casacolonialhotel.com). Named for a principle of feng shui, the sleek spa will wash away stress with a signature treatment, perhaps a full-body scrub with crushed amber and sea salt, or a couples’ massage in an oceanfront suite.
Flying in
La Union International Airport (POP)

Located in the province of Matanzas, Varadero is the most famous beach resort in Cuba, and one of the largest resorts in the Caribbean. Also known as ‘Blue Beach’ because of its clear, calm waters, Varadero was founded back in the 19th century by a group of rich families coming from Matanzas city. But it became famous after the millionaire Irenée du Pont de Nemours built his estate on the so-called Península de Hicacos, although hotels only started to be built later in the 1950s. Since the early 1990s most of the peninsula has been developed for international tourism and the majority of the 50 or so hotels are co-owned by a foreign business. Varadero is fronted by a 20km (12-mile) fine white sandy beach, which is bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream.

Who goes there?
During most of December through to February, Varadero is mostly visited by European and Canadian tourists who come to relax and enjoy the warm sun. Locals visit Varadero during summer time, from June through to August, which means the beaches can be crowded during those months.
Where in the world?
Varadero is in Matanzas Province, Cuba, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, located on the Península de Hicacos, some 150km (93 miles) east of Havana. With a well preserved coastal ecosystem and a very special collection of local fauna, Varadero occupies a flat and narrow peninsula constantly cooled by tropical breezes, with a small population. Matanzas and Cárdenas city lie to the west.
Beach
The beach, Varadero’s main attraction, is the ‘backyard’ of all hotels in Varadero, whose 20km (12 miles) of turquoise water and sandy beach allow tourists to take long walks along the ocean. It presents a necklace of virgin cays easy to reach and a very well preserved natural landscape at the northeastern end of the peninsula. It is possible to dive, and the best place to take diving lessons is the Barracuda International Diving Center (Avenida Primera, esquina 59).
Beyond the beach
Cárdenas City, 12km (8 miles) from Varadero, is a small and colourful city noted for three unusual structures: a replica of a bicycle, a horse-drawn carriage and a big crab cast in concrete representing the abundant crustaceans in the area. There is also a bus stop in the shape of a big nose. Matanzas City, 32km (20 miles) from Varadero, is the capital of the province and has a beautiful harbour. Guamá, 140 km (86 miles) from Varadero, is a UNESCO Reserve of the Biosphere, and boasts the largest crocodile breeding centre in the country. Crocodile meat can be eaten here.
Family fun
Varadero is a family-friendly destination. Its beaches, museums, cafes, restaurants and parks are all accessible to children. The natural pool for dolphins, the Delfinario (Carretera Las Morlas, kilómetro 13), is one of the main attractions offered here.
Retail therapy
Shopping in Varadero is very easy. There are shops in every single hotel offering typical products like cigars, Cuban coffee, rum and T-shirts, souvenirs and CDs of Cuban music. Beach shops also sell usual holiday items such as sunglasses and sun cream. Plaza América (Autopista Sur, kilómetro 11, Varadero) is an international convention centre that incorporates souvenir shops, shopping mall, boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops. Craft markets are open during the whole week in downtown Varadero.
A night on the town
Most of the hotels offer night-time entertainment, but for those looking for other possibilities, Hotel Internacional (Avenida Las Américas), offers a show called Cabaret Continental, a colourful 1950s extravaganza. Hotel Tuxpan (Avenida de las Américas, kilómetro 4), with its disco La Bamba, is a sophisticated nightclub that combines Latin and European rhythms. La Comparsita (Calle 60 y Tercera Avenida) is a pleasant cabaret-style nightclub, with dancing shows and live Cuban music in the heart of Varadero. All beverages are included in the cover charge.
Eating out
Even though every hotel is all-inclusive, there are a lot of restaurants and coffee shops all over Varadero, offering a variety of food for all tastes. Chinese, Cuban, Italian, Mexican, barbecued meat and seafood restaurants can be found in the heart of the peninsula and are open all day. Specialised restaurants in different hotels need to be booked a day in advance. Chez Plaza Restaurant, in Plaza América Convention Center (Carretera Sur, kilómetro 11) specialises in seafood, one of a few restaurants offering diners a selection of live lobsters. La Vicaria Restaurant (Avenida Primera y Calle 38) is a good value fast food place offering Cuban food. Dante Restaurant, in Josone Park (Avenida Primera y Calle 56), is the best Italian in town and boasts panoramic views of the lake.
Getting around
Downtown Varadero is easily navigable on foot; it also has a good panoramic bus service serving all the main hotels. For the hotels located far from the heart of the peninsula, there is a taxi service. Taxis can be found all over Varadero, and there are bicycle and scooter hire offices in most hotels. There are no regular buses.
Exploring further afield
Josone’s Park (Avenida Primera y Calle 56), is an old mansion converted into a restaurant in a lush palm trees grove with a beautiful artificial lake, four restaurants serving international, Italian and Cuban cuisine, and a bar on the shore of the lake. Varadero’s Golf Club (Carretera de las Américas), just beside Villa Xanadú, is a magnificent 18-hole championship course, with an intricate system of lagoons in the ‘British’ link tradition. Its attractions include fairways in the shape of islands, lakes and, because the peninsula is very narrow, natural obstacles such as the wind and sea on both sides of the course.
Splashing out
Villa Xanadú (Carretera de las Américas), the house of the founder of Varadero, has beautiful rooms decorated with precious wood and Italian marble. A panoramic piano bar on the top floor, offers a more intimate setting, where gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed in a peaceful atmosphere.
Flying in
Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport (VRA)