An overview of the Caribbean islands - how to travel cheaply in one of the most expensive regions in the world. Caribs

Does heaven exist on earth? Without a doubt!

You can verify this by visiting the islands of the Caribbean.

Large and small, leeward and windward, inhabited by tourists and uninhabited, many of which are popular destinations for exotic beach destinations.


More than fifty islands harmoniously combine the natural with the man-made: the rich heritage of the colonial past hidden in many museums, and pompous mansions complement the exotic nature, where tropical forests give way to volcanic landscapes and coffee plantations are intertwined with thickets of sugar cane and banana.

Why is the Caribbean popular in the tourism market?

The answer is clear: The nature here is amazingly beautiful, there is a warm sea all year round, a large selection of hotels and a large amount of entertainment - various sports, including water sports, nightclubs, restaurants, discos, interesting excursions.

Let's list the most famous resorts in Central America, loved by tourists from all over the world.

Paradise beaches of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is a country in the West Indies that occupies three islands - Antigua, Barbuda and Redonda. The capital of the country is St. John's. The official language here is English.

Antigua

The main tourist center of the country is the largest of the islands, Antigua, which has about 365 beaches. The island has a developed infrastructure: entertainment complexes, luxury hotels, casinos, night clubs.

Barbuda

The second largest island is Barbuda. It is completely coral, and the wildlife here is preserved in its original form. The beaches on the island have no end and seem to go beyond the horizon.

Barbuda is largely undeveloped, so this place is simply intended for lovers of a relaxing holiday surrounded by pristine nature.

Redonda

Not far from it is the uninhabited island park of Redonda; it covers an area of ​​only 1 sq. km.

Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit this resort.

The climate on the islands is tropical, dry and warm all year round. The wind blows almost all the time. Rains can only be found in September-November.

Driest period: February - April, no more than three rainy days per month. Average water temperature +24..+26°C, air +28..+31°C.

There are no large hotels on the island, all of them have about 200 rooms, most operate on an all-inclusive basis.
The resort offers many entertainments:

  • "Antigua Tour" - a half-hour helicopter flight over the coast of the island.
  • "Dolly Roger Pirate Ship Cruise" - sailing along the coast of Antigua with a break in the bay, where you can swim, sunbathe and snorkel.
  • "Montserrat tour" - 45 minutes helicopter flight over mountainous terrain, around an active volcano, bays and bays of the island.
  • "Tropical Adventures" - jeep safari in hard-to-reach corners of the island. Historical tours, swimming with dolphins in the Marina Bay lagoon, sailing on catamarans to uninhabited islands.

The main attractions include:

  • St. John's - St. John's Anglican Cathedral and Fort James, National Museum.
  • English Harbor and Falmouth Harbor are colonial fortifications and a naval base for the British, built in the south of Antigua in the 17th century.
  • Codrington Lagoon in western Barbuda with interesting caves and seabirds. Devil's Bridge, from which fugitive slaves threw themselves into the ocean, gaining freedom.

Island-state of Aruba

Aruba is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and clear water.

  • The best beaches, Arashi Beach and Hadikurari Beach, are located in the north-west of the island - they are ideal for snorkeling;
  • The pristine Druif Beach is one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

The island has more than 40 sites with excellent snorkeling and diving conditions, and its constant strong winds make it popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.

The climate in Aruba is tropical maritime. The average annual air temperature is +29 °C, water +24..+27°C.

Most precipitation falls from November to December. Trade winds are characteristic, which significantly relieve the heat.

Most hotels in Aruba are modern complexes with their own beaches and small parks. In many, entertainment is free for guests.

Offered various types of meals: from breakfast to all inclusive. There are many cafes and restaurants on the island. The hotels operate SPA centers and casinos.
In the capital, Oranjestad, there are 4 museums:

  • Archaeological.
  • Geological.
  • Historical (Museo Arubano).
  • Numismatic and Cultural Center of Aruba, where various exhibitions are held. There are interesting churches and temples in and near the city.

Also worth a visit:

  • St. Nicholas, its Charlie Bar and many churches and colorful old houses.
  • Arikok National Park.
  • Fontaine Cave.
  • Ruins of gold mines in Miralamar.
  • Dutch colonial settlements in Masiduri.
  • Guadirikiri Caves and Tunnel of Love.
  • Natural bridge.
  • California Lighthouse and Iyo Rock make a huge impression on tourists.

Aruba offers a variety of activities:

  • snorkeling,
  • scuba diving,
  • diving,
  • windsurfing,
  • water skiing,
  • catamarans,
  • submarine travel,
  • all types of fishing,
  • golf,
  • jeep safari,
  • horseback riding,
  • casino.

Luxury Bahamas

The archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean between Cuba and the Florida Peninsula. It includes 2,500 reefs and 700 islands, 30 of which are inhabited.

The second largest island of the Bahamas - Great Abaco - is known to all yachtsmen in the world. The sailing season here lasts from spring to autumn.

The shallow coastal waters are full of fish. All water sports are available here, fishing, duty free shops.

There are practically no tourists on Long Island. But this is the most picturesque island of the Bahamas, with beautiful nature and many places untouched by civilization.

Cape Santa Maria has one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the Western Hemisphere.

This archipelago can be considered a real paradise for yachtsmen because The places here are considered one of the most beautiful in the world: endless ebbs and flows that change the depth of the coastal shallows, which makes the sea unusually beautiful.

You can get great pleasure by diving here.

In the north of the Bahamas the climate is tropical, trade wind, and in the south it is subtropical. In summer the average temperature is +26..+32°C. The southern islands are warmer in summer than the central part of the archipelago.

The average temperature in winter is +18..+22°C, the northwestern islands are coolest. The average water temperature in summer is +27 °C, in winter +23 °C.

It is better to visit the country in the cool season from September to May because rain is rare in winter.

Hotels in the Bahamas are very diverse: from large high-rise complexes to small cozy establishments. The all inclusive system is the best in the Caribbean.

There are 25 protected areas on the islands. Bird watching is best on Great Inagua Island, and many different animals can be seen in Abaco National Park, Man O'War Cay, and Cat Island.

All Bahamian resorts have nightlife restaurants, casinos, bars and cabarets. Everything for water sports and active recreation is provided.

New Providence and Harbor Island

On the islands of New Providence, Grand Bahama and Harbor Island there are most sports centers.

Andros, Bimini, Berry

The islands of Andros, Bimini, and Berry are characterized by fishing.

Abacos and Eleuthera

The best places to go for coral reef diving are the Abacos and Eleuthera islands.

Exuma and Long Island

Exuma and Long Island will give you unforgettable yacht trips.

Inagua

On the island of Inagua you can see pink flamingos, exotic iguanas, swim with dolphins and feed sharks.

Grand Bahama

For those who are interested in fishing and scuba diving, the island of Grand Bahama is suitable.

The fabulous island of Barbados

Barbados, surrounded by coral reefs, is famous for its wonderful beaches, even mild climate and lush tropical nature.

The island is located in the eastern part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago. It is washed from the east by the Atlantic Ocean, and from the west by the Caribbean Sea.

It used to be a British colony British traditions are still preserved here, therefore the island is often called "Little England".

Barbados has protected areas where unique species of tropical animals and plants are preserved.

South coast

South coast - best place for windsurfing.

Along the coast of the island there are small 3 and 4* hotels, restaurants, bars and discos.

The town of St. Lawrence Gap is the center of nightlife.

West Coast

The west coast is washed by the Caribbean Sea, with calm, clear water and golden sandy beaches. This is where they are the best hotels on the island for lovers of a relaxing holiday.
The cozy restaurants and bars here will brighten up your evenings.

East Coast

The east coast of Barbados is the most beautiful part of the island, but little explored by tourists. Here beautiful wild beaches and excellent surfing conditions.

North coast

The least populated area is Northern Barbados. There is a wildlife sanctuary here, where green monkeys, roe deer, otters, turtles, and other exotic animals and birds live.

The climate on the island is tropical trade wind. Air temperature on average +26..+30°C, Trade winds and sea breezes save you from the sweltering heat.

From June to November approximately 75% of precipitation falls, July is considered the wettest month. Hurricanes are possible in September and October.

A great way to see the island's attractions is to buy a special “tourist passport” (Heritage Barbados Passport), which will allow you to visit 16 of the main museums, architectural and natural monuments of the country with a 50% discount.

In addition, there are many bars and discos on the island, including Harbor Lights on the sand in the open air.

Besides everything else, every year in January Barbados hosts the largest jazz festival, which brings together musicians from all over the world.

Video tour of Barbados

Did you like the article?

Subscribe to site updates via RSS, or stay tuned for updates

Pirates and drug lords, tropical forests and dormant volcanoes, comfortable hotels and uninhabited islands - all this is the Caribbean.

Five dozen islands scattered between North and South America are the territory of more than 30 countries.

You need to visit this multinational paradise at least once, especially since after your first visit here you will not want to relax anywhere else.

Well, for those who are already seriously planning a vacation to the Caribbean islands, all that remains is to choose one of the top ten places and go to BiletyPlus.ru in search of the most economical tickets and accommodation options.

Cuba

Holidays in Cuba are not cheap and only very wealthy people can afford them. At the same time, traveling young people are sure that it is enough to save up money for air travel, and on the island of freedom itself you can live without money at all.

Holidays in Cuba are of interest to many people and will appeal to people of all ages. Here you can enjoy the almost advent of communism, try the legendary rum and cigars, dance until the morning on the beaches or explore ancient monuments and museums. And, of course, diving, snorkeling, trips on snow-white yachts and other water activities.

Another advantage is that Russians do not need visas to Cuba.

Haiti

Hidden between Cuba and Puerto Rico is the small state of Haiti. The island of the same name on which it is located is famous for the fact that only on it two capitals exist simultaneously.

The island originated from a cooled volcano, so its topography is very unusual. Rugged rocky shores with hundreds of tiny bays invite you to a secluded holiday, and many fast rivers promise an unforgettable rafting experience.

However, even if you are not a supporter of extreme types of recreation, Haiti can give you a good dose of adrenaline, because earthquakes are not uncommon here.

Jamaica

If you want not only relaxation, but also excursions, visit the Bob Marley house-museum, go to the Duns River waterfalls and raft on a bamboo raft.

Puerto Rico

The small rocky island, surrounded by many uninhabited islets, is also a great place to relax. Puerto Rico is most interesting to those who value privacy, inexpensive hotels and beautiful nature. Boat rental is practiced here, so if you are tired of socializing, rent a boat and go to any of the neighboring islands - 90% of them are uninhabited.

There are no predators here, so the only ones you should be wary of on your voyages are tiny coca frogs. They are so small that it is almost impossible to see them, but the sounds they make can deafen a person.

Barbados

An ideal place for diving and water skiing is Barbados. Snow-white sandy beaches, tropical forests, noisy parties until dawn and quality service will turn your holiday here into a continuous fairy tale.

By the way, nudism and topless recreation are prohibited in conservative Barbados - strict British traditions have an effect. Otherwise, everything is fine here. We can recommend this island to families with children, because unlike most Caribbean islands, Barbados has enough museums, excursions, and “pirate” exotica.

Tortuga

The island, shaped like a giant sea turtle, has been a center of piracy for centuries. It was here that rum flowed like a river, everything that could be obtained on the seas was traded, and three centuries later the legendary “Pirates of the Caribbean” were filmed.

Tortuga is now completely safe, but the Jolly Roger can still be found anywhere on the island. Cafes, hotels, clubs, yachts and even laundries here are decorated in a pirate style to attract the attention of tourists.

Trinidad and Tobago

The tiny state, located on seven islands, is an option for those who dream of untouched nature and are supporters of ecotourism. There is peace and quiet on the islands almost all year round; you can only hear the rustling of the surf and the singing of tropical birds.

However, in March everything changes, because it’s carnival time. Songs, dances, round-the-clock fiery rhythms and a festive atmosphere accompany the carnival days.

But during Easter week it is worth going to the island of Tobago. Unique goat racing takes place here - the process is both exciting and incredibly fun.

Grenada

Grenada is the calmest island in the Caribbean. Endless beaches, hotels for every taste and budget, very reasonable prices and an incredibly low crime rate make it a pleasant place for a quiet vacation.

There is little entertainment here, but there are plenty of excursions through the forests, rafting on fast rivers and secluded beaches with golden sand. If you are not lazy and rent a car, you can see the entire island in a week.

Antigua and Barbuda

This state consists of only three islands, but each one is worth a visit. The largest - Antigua - has 365 beaches, all hotels, restaurants, bars and basic urban infrastructure are concentrated.

Barbuda, an island of coral origin, has all the conditions for diving. Dozens of boats depart in this direction every day, and tourists from all over the world plunge into the vibrant underwater world.

Well, on the uninhabited island of Redonda there is a park. It won’t take a long excursion to see it, because the island’s area is only one square kilometer. However, it is still beautiful and worth admiring.

Dominican Republic

Ancient buildings, luxurious carnivals, beautiful girls and ever-increasing prices - welcome to. The popularity of this destination is also growing day by day, and people start booking tours there six months in advance.

All the attractions here are concentrated in Santo Domingo, and the rest of the territory delights with beaches, tropical forests, bright colors and a million entertainments.

Fans of active recreation can choose from a dozen water sports, hiking and horseback riding and a variety of extreme entertainment. Well, those who came to relax can calmly enjoy the purity of white sand and the quality of beach service.

What you like - secluded bays or bustling beaches - depends only on you. But the Caribbean is good because it can satisfy any request. Well, if this trip seems too expensive to you, go to BiletyPlus.ru and see otherwise.

When you think about the Caribbean islands, thoughts of sun, sea and sand immediately come to mind. The relaxed pace of life allows you to enjoy a glass or two of your favorite cocktail, sitting under a coconut tree and feeling the light breath of the ocean breeze on your face. It is likely that this place is a branch of heaven on earth.And since you are already in paradise, it’s time to enjoy your vacation to the fullest by choosing a chic, first-class resort for this. Naturally, this will cost a pretty penny, but why risk ruining your vacation by staying in a cheap, run-down hotel? Below is a list of the ten most luxurious resorts on the Caribbean coast.

10. Sandy Lane, St. James, Fr. Barbados

Stars and other famous people consider Sandy Lane their safe haven. The resort offers more than a hundred hotel rooms and a five-room villa. Very close to the coast there is a coral reef of wonderful beauty called “Little Sandy Lane”. The main representatives of marine fauna in this part of the Caribbean Sea are barracudas and lobsters.

The hotel owns three golf courses - this is probably what prompted Tiger Woods, the famous American golfer, to rent the entire resort to spend his honeymoon here with Elin Nordegren. Unfortunately, the couple didn't visit this place often enough. But the stylish and romantic atmosphere of Sandy Lane could help save their marriage.

9. Hotel Maroma, Mexico

Vacation in Mexico. Surely, you will immediately think of Acapulco or Cancun. And about the crowds of tourists who scurry through their streets day and night. But just 50 kilometers from here is the quiet and cozy town of Maroma. The hotel of the same name offers 36 rooms, which means it is never too crowded.

8. Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas resort in the Virgin Islands is located on 60.7 thousand square meters. m of superbly landscaped land, and the island of St. Thomas itself offers stunning scenery. Due to the elegance and sophistication of this place, the hotel's 152 rooms are in high demand. Staying in the luxurious surroundings of a superbly appointed hotel will bring you much closer to nature.

7. "Atlantis", o. Paradise, Bahamas

They say that about 11 thousand years ago the majestic city of Atlantis disappeared into the depths of the sea, leaving no trace of its existence. The same name was taken by one of the resorts in the Bahamas, which boasts beautiful sandy beaches and offers all the conditions for practicing any kind of water sports. Here you can also take a “leap into the unknown” - go down an 18-meter-high water slide directly into the resort’s main pool. The resort is located on Paradise Island, which in itself speaks of the wonder of this place.

6. Turks and Caicos Resort, o. Providencials

Turks and Caicos is a string of eight islands in the Caribbean archipelago, located approximately 600 miles off the coast of Miami and surrounded by numerous coral reefs. This place is very popular with celebrities, so don't be surprised if you accidentally bump into someone very famous. Go to o. Providencials and book a room in Turks and Caicos - your vacation is guaranteed to be enjoyable and full of fun.

5. "Caneel Bay", o. Saint John, US Virgin Islands

The elitism of this island is off the charts. It is worth mentioning that even the Rockefellers loved to spend weekends here with the whole family. The island is covered with lush greenery, a real tropical jungle. With Caneel Bay, your stay on the island will be an unforgettable experience. The hotel features 166 charming rooms, a huge relaxation and wellness complex and three restaurants. Tennis fans will be delighted with the modern courts offered by the resort.

4. Parrot Cay Resort on the island of the same name

There are simply resorts, and there are resorts that allow guests to relax in privacy. The Caribbean is home to many outstanding holiday destinations, each offering top-notch amenities and luxury. Sometimes the only way for a hotel to distinguish itself is to provide guests with exclusive service and privacy, as Parrot Cay does. Its exclusivity knows no bounds. A small boat is the only way to reach the luxury five-star resort. Only a few people can visit this place at the same time. Luxurious, secluded, unique - that's what Parrot Cay Resort is all about.

3. "Little Dix Bay", o. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Not far from the coast of Puerto Rico is located the island. Virgin Gorda has an area of ​​just over 20 square meters. km. The island is surrounded by lush greenery, offering stunning views of the bay. At the center of this riot is Little Dix Bay, a huge resort offering the best entertainment of the mountain and underwater worlds. The resort has hiking trails of varying levels of difficulty that are suitable for everyone - from beginners to experienced hikers. If diving is more your thing, there are some wonderful diving spots here.

2. "Hayat Regency", Fr. Aruba, Netherlands Antilles

The island of Aruba is located off the coast of Venezuela (South America). Its peculiarity is a unique combination of Dutch, Spanish and Caribbean culture. The Hyatt Regency Casino Resort will immerse you in a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere with 24-hour entertainment and the courteous service of a knowledgeable staff.

1. Four Seasons Resort, o. Nevis, West Indies

The Caribbean Islands, or simply the Caribbean, are a region of island micro-states whose main source of income is tourism. It is not surprising that much attention is paid to the recreational industry here. The climate and nature of the islands are more than conducive to recreation and tourism, however, due to the geographical remoteness, the Caribbean islands are not yet so popular as a holiday destination among Russian tourists. One of the advantages of a holiday in the Caribbean is the fact that most countries do not require an entry visa, however, there are some nuances here too. Today we will tell you about these and other features of a holiday on the Caribbean islands in our review.

1.Cuba

Holidays in Cuba are most popular among tourists from Russia. Judge for yourself, the largest island in the Caribbean offers its tourists a wonderful climate and beaches, colorful culture and natural attractions, no need to apply for a visa, in addition, the price in Cuba will also pleasantly surprise our compatriots. The coastline of the island is characterized by the presence of a large number of bays and coves; the island is also of interest to divers due to the presence of coral formations near the coast. Cuba is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. On the island there are several mountain ranges, as well as numerous karst caves, where it will be interesting to go on excursions.

The climate of Cuba is typical tropical, so if you do not want to fall into the rainy season, then it is better to come here on vacation from October to April. Varadero is considered the main resort in Cuba. By the way, the beaches of Varadero are among the five cleanest beaches in the world. The resort has a large hotel base and numerous diving centers; tourists have the opportunity to attend various excursions, incl. to caves and tropical forests, as well as experience a water safari, so a holiday in Cuba is more of a mixture of a beach holiday and an exciting excursion, since the nature of Cuba is inexhaustible in this regard.

The advantage for Russian tourists is the opportunity to fly to Cuba without additional transfers from Moscow. In addition, there are various connecting flights through Europe. Perhaps the purchase of tickets will be the largest expense item, because... prices in Cuba are quite reasonable even in tourist areas.

Romtomtom/flickr

2.Dominican Republic

When choosing a resort in the Dominican Republic, you should rely on your own desires. Most Russian tourists go to the famous resort of Punta Cana, and this is not surprising, because there is a gentle white sandy coast, convenient logistics to the main attractions, and Punta Cana hotels are famous for their diversity and hospitality. However, if you come on vacation to the Dominican Republic for the purpose of diving or other water sports, then it is better to go to the south of the country, where there are all the opportunities to explore the coral reefs of the Caribbean Sea. Such resorts include Catalina Island or the towns of Juan Dolio and Boca Chica. You can go windsurfing in Puerto Plata. Among the attractions of the Dominican Republic, the island of Saona will be especially interesting, which is also a nature reserve; its views are truly heavenly, like in a Bounty advertisement. In the vicinity of the city of Jarabocoa there are cascading waterfalls, which in turn are also a popular tourist destination.

Holidays in the Dominican Republic are predominantly beach, fortunately the coastline here is spacious and stretches for many kilometers, but if you, in addition to a beach holiday, are interested in the history of this Caribbean state, then in the capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, there are many cultural, architectural and historical monuments that have stylistic diversity and will be of interest to many. It is here that you can feel the Spanish influence on the culture and life of the islanders.

For Russian tourists, there are direct flights from Moscow to the resort of Punta Cana; in addition, a visa is not needed to enter the Dominican Republic if you do not plan to stay there for more than 30 days.

Antonio Castagna/flickr

3.Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a mixture of mountains and extensive coastal areas, add to this a mild maritime climate, and you have a great holiday destination. The main contingent of vacationers here are Americans, and this is not surprising, because Puerto Rico is a country freely associated with the United States. On the one hand, the island has order and infrastructure, like in the USA, on the other hand, the population has Spanish roots, which can be seen in the culture and medieval architecture, and on the third, tropical flora and fauna reign here, all together this makes the country unique and unique of a kind.

The number of beaches on the island is off the charts, here everyone can choose a beach to suit their interests, for example, surfers are better off going to the western part of the island to beaches such as Punta Higuero and Spanish Wall Beach; for lovers of secluded relaxation, Mar Chiquita or Resaca Beach are perfect; divers and snorkelers usually flock to Blue Beach and Playa Esperanza. Among the attractions of the island, one can note the Rio Camay National Cave Park - this is a whole network of karst caves stretching for many kilometers of the island.

Fans of mountain tourism should definitely go to the Cordillera Central mountain range, the highest on the island. For cultural treasures, it is worth going to the capital of Puerto Rico, the city of San Juan. The city is considered one of the oldest founded by Europeans in America. Among the interesting things about San Juan are the forts of San Felipe del Morre and San Cristobal and many ancient buildings made in the colonial style.

Russian tourists require a visa to enter Puerto Rico, which is issued at US consulates. The flight will most likely also be carried out through one of the US cities, although there is an option - to arrive by ferry from the Dominican Republic (about 14 hours on the way). There are no direct flights from Moscow to Puerto Rico.

Breezy Baldwin/flickr

4.Bahamas

The geography of the Bahamas is extremely interesting - the country consists of more than 700 islands, and only 30 of them are inhabited, and the coastal zone of the Bahamas is rich in coral reefs, which makes the place one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. The best time of year to visit the islands is considered to be November-April, when precipitation (or rather, monsoon showers) is unlikely. The most visited islands of the Bahamas are New Providence, Grand Bahama, Andros, and Eleuthera. They are absolutely tailored to the needs of tourists: hotels, restaurants, night bars and discos, pedestrian promenades, shopping, the opportunity to attend a lot of excursions - all this forms the basis of the economy of the island state, so tourists are always welcome here.

For diving, go to the Abacos and Eleuthera islands, to Inagua island for exotic activities such as swimming with dolphins, to Andros island for fishing, and for quality shopping in New Providence. A real gem of your visit to the Bahamas will be a trip to Harbor Island, where the mysterious pink beach is located. The color of the sand, both on the beach and in the water, is really pink. This is explained simply - the water contains a high presence of pink mollusks, which give such an amazing color to the water.

The Bahamas has several national parks, each famous for its natural conditions. For example, Lucayan Park is a mixture of underwater caves and mangrove swamps. And in the Retreat Park you can admire and explore the unique and diverse flora and fauna of the island, rare species of palm trees and cedars, plants and birds. Russian tourists do not need a visa to enter this piece of paradise, unless you plan to stay here for more than 90 days.

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Moscow, so you will need a transfer in London or one of the US cities (do not forget about the need for a transit visa). If you plan to stay in the Bahamas for more than 90 days, you must contact the British Embassy for paperwork.

Trish Hartmann/flickr

5.Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago are 2 large islands located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Trinidad is continental in origin, while Tobago is volcanic. Both islands have mountain ranges as part of their topography, which are a natural continuation of the mountain ranges of Venezuela. The islands' dry season is considered to be from January to May, but Trinidad and Tobago is located away from tropical cyclones, so there is no heavy rainfall even during the “rainy season”. The islands are covered with evergreen plants and trees; it is not uncommon to find cypress or sandalwood forests here.

The tourism industry is a priority here, so the level of service is quite good, despite the fact that prices, compared to other Caribbean islands, are not bad. Among water sports, literally all, or very many, are popular here. You can go windsurfing, diving, water skiing, paragliding, and fishing. Many tourists choose February and March as the time to visit the islands, because it is at this time of year that the carnival is held in Trinidad and Tobago. The best beaches on the islands are considered to be Tairico Bay and Maracas Bay, which resemble a picture from a Bounty advertisement. To see the rich nature of the islands in all its glory, head to Karoni and Asa Rait national parks, where special viewing platforms are equipped for better observation of the wildlife of the place. For breathtaking natural attractions, also head to the Sombasson Falls and Guanapo Gorge.

Russian citizens do not need a visa to Trinidad and Tobago (if your stay does not exceed 90 days). However, a transit visa is required, because There are no direct flights from Russia. Transfers are possible in Amsterdam and London.

6.Martinique

You will be surprised, but Martinique is part of France, more precisely, its overseas territory. The island itself is of volcanic origin, and there are many coral reefs around it. On the island, in addition to extinct volcanoes, there is one active one - Mont Pele. It is better to come to Martinique from November to June, when precipitation becomes significantly less. During your trip around the island, you should definitely walk along the so-called hiking trail. This is a good opportunity to admire the island's tropical forests, unusual plants, such as giant ferns, mountain and volcanic peaks, a waterfall on the Alma River, and also visit the Jardín Balata botanical garden.

The best place for a beach holiday is the southern tip of the island – the Les Salines region. The beaches here are truly endless. The hotel base is also well developed in Le Salines. Surprisingly, Martinique is the birthplace of the same Josephine who became Napoleon’s wife. Now in the house where she spent her childhood, there is a museum with interesting exhibitions and authentic household items of the French Empress. A visit to the museum is a must.

Martinique is often included in numerous cruise routes, so many tourists explore the island during cruises, but the island is so unique that it undoubtedly deserves more attention. To visit the island, Russian tourists need to apply for a special visa at the French embassy. You can get to Martinique from Moscow with one change in Paris.

Antoine Hubert/flickr

7.Grenada

Another island of volcanic origin, Grenada, covers an area of ​​only 350 square meters. km, most of which are mountains and hills. Valuable features of the island are its numerous bays and secluded beaches; here, without exaggeration, you can feel like you are at the end of the world. Grand Anse is the main tourist destination in Grenada. All the benefits of civilization are concentrated here - hotels, bars, restaurants and other entertainment. For privacy, you should go to the northern part of the island. Grenada is surrounded by coral reefs, so the water here is always calm, and divers have the opportunity to explore the unique ecosystems of the Caribbean Sea, almost untouched by people.

The best diving spots are Beauce Reef, Jenny Island and Grand Anne Beach. The island is home to several national parks that deserve special attention. For example, Etang Park, located near the crater lake of the same name, is interesting for its waterfalls and hot springs. Levera Park is popular for its lagoon, home to rare bird species.

Citizens of the Russian Federation do not need a visa to visit Grenada. You will have to fly from Moscow with a transfer in London or Frankfurt am Main (don’t forget about transit visas).

Lloyd Morgan/flickr

8.Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in the Western Hemisphere (261 sq. km). Both islands are of volcanic origin. Most of the islands are occupied by mountains, an extinct volcano, salt lakes and numerous sandy bays for which St. Kitts and Nevis is famous. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs, which makes a stay here especially interesting for divers. It is better to come to the islands from November to June, because... Quite strong hurricanes are possible in August-October. Visa-free entry is available for Russian citizens. However, the flight is only possible with a transfer in one of the visa countries for Russia, which makes it necessary to obtain a transit visa. The flight is possible with a connection in London, New York or Miami.

tiarescott/flickr

Practical and eventful travels to you!