Browsing Month April, 2010

Cancun, a part of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a comparably new tourist destination in Mexico with many outstanding stretches of white sandy beaches and Caribbean coastline. It is considered as one of the most popular sun destinations in the world. The development of Cancun as a tourist destination is an attempt to replicate the popularity and success of Acapulco and its tourism boom. Cancun grown as a huge tourism success in almost no time, alluring more and more tourists than Acapulco each year and new hotel complexes, beachside villas and other provisions of accommodation are developing to keep up with the ever growing demand. The most famous global hotel chains in Cancun have combined luxury and comfort with hospitality as they offer access to indoor sport activities and relaxing spas. During your trip to Cancun and the Riviera Maya, you will simply be amazed to see the fine white sand beaches, the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea and the extremely friendly locales. This coastal city allows you to escape from the hustle bustle of regular city life and puts you in the lap of Mother Nature. Yet, the place prides all modern amenities you may need to have a complete vacation experience; finest accommodation and dining, world class shopping, serene solitude of the Rivera Maya, motorized and non-motorized water sports and a happening night life.  No wonder, thousands of couple chooses Cancun as their honeymoon spot each year!

The city of Cancun has two prominent main areas: ‘Zona Hotelera’ (Hotel Zone) and Ciudad Cancun (Downtown). Downtown Cancun is of very little tourist interest as it serves like a service centre for the actual resort. The main attractions of Cancun; the historic sites, accommodation facilities, stunning sea beaches, coral reefs, water sport facilities, shopping complexes, all are based around Zona Hotelera. The four-lane Boulevard Kukulcán is a major thoroughfare here that connects Ciudad Cancun.

Best Time to Visit

The weather in Cancun is fantastic all through the year, with daytime temperatures never far away from 30°C / 86°F. This tropical climate makes Cancun a particularly appealing holiday destination, with warm waters topping 28°C / 82°F during the height of the summer, when snorkeling, scuba diving and other water sports are at their most popular and underwater visibility is up to 30 meters / 100 feet. Fine weather and a hot, tropical climate is commonplace in anytime of the year in Cancun which is perfect for tourists who enjoy some sunbathing and beach activities. But in the months of September and October are known as the Hurricane months here and while planning a trip to Cancun, you should avoid these two months to keep things safer.

Cancun Attractions

Beaches

With some stunningly beautiful sandy beaches and superb dive spots, the coastline of Cancun is the main attraction of the city. The coast of Cancun has an “ocean side” and a “lagoon side.” For obvious reasons, most of the hotels face the ocean side. Tourists can swim and sunbathe on the ocean side beaches. But activities like jet-skiing, kayaking and rest are available on the lagoon side. Cruise ships and water taxis depart from the north beach side. Among the north beaches, Playa Las Perlas, Playa Linda, Playa Tortugas, Playa Caracol and Playa Langosta Playa are more popular ones. Gaviota Azul, Playa Marlín, Playa Ballenas, Punta Nizuc and San Miguelito are famous among the East beaches. These east side beaches are not sheltered by Isla Mujeres, so winds and currents are stronger here.

Fishing, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Fishing around Cancun is a leisurely and rewarding pass time. Different fishes are available in different times of the year.  If you’re fishing for Blue Marlin, the best time to visit Cancun is from June to August. Sailfish are best available between March and July. Grouper can be caught from October to December. Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen and the Yucatan offer excellent diving opportunities. These places are just minutes away from the Great Maya Reef, world’s second largest barrier reef. No matter if you are a beginner or advanced diver, you can rent equipments, get certified and book tours from plenty of places here. The three best places for snorkeling in Cancun are Punta Nizuc, Punta Cancun and Playa Tortugas. There are several places to rent snorkeling equipment and locate tours.

Mayan Ruins

Mayan culture is famous for impressive architecture, spectacular art with sophisticated astronomical and mathematical systems. These Mayans lived mainly on the Yucatan Peninsula. You can find many majestic Mayan ruins that speak eloquently of the grandeur of this lost culture. There are several archeological sites right within Cancun’s hotel zone. The most frequently visited Mayan ruin sites are all in Mexico and can be reached by bus or car from Cancun. Chichen Itza, one of the most impressive of all Mayan ruins, is only two and a half hours away from Cancun. Founded in 445 B.C. and inhabited until 1204 A.D., Chichen Itza is the richest and largest archeological remnants of that civilization. Tulum, only 80 miles south to the Cancun, is believed to be one of the most important ceremonial centers of the Mayan people. Three hours south of Cancun is Cobá, an early Mayan site yet to be fully reclaimed from the jungle.

Cancun Underwater Museum

Cancun allows you to submerge yourself in the Mexican Caribbean, one of the most beautiful and clear waters of the world. These crystal clear waters are now home to one of the largest underwater museums on the planet. This museum is a part of the underwater sculptures installed within the protected National Marine Park of the Yucatan Peninsula. Divers and snorkelers here can avail the opportunity to admire more than 400 original sculptures under water that ranges from 9 to 20 feet. The artist Jason deCaires Taylor here tried to showcase a contemporary and cultural view on the Mayan people who were all way ahead of their time.

Havana, the largest city and capital of Cuba, is one of the must-visit tourist destinations of the Caribbean. The city offers a glimpse into the past. In old Havana, the ancient heritage of the city is reflected by the squares and colonnades. Most of the Spanish colonial buildings in the city have undergone restoration. Between 1915 and 1930, tourism was considered as the third most productive industry in Cuba and Havana, where an easy going attitude prevailed in all matters including pleasure, was the most popular destination. But later, Havana experienced a drastic decrease in the flow of tourists to the island caused by the Great Depression, internal political unrest and the Second World War. But the tide was turned when the city again started receiving significant numbers of visitors in the 50’s. But during this time, Organized crime took over the majority of both the tourism and entertainment industries in the country. In fact, this island once was the most secured link in the chain of drugs whose final destination was the United States. For others, the city’s poor and sick reputation of being a destination of sensuality and dolce vita had earned the nickname the “Las Vegas Latino”. In current times, their legacy is carried forward by some splendid hotels where time has stood still since the revolution; the casinos are now transformed into dazzling nightclubs.

But the tourists make a trip to Havana for other reasons. It’s a city of life and entertainment where modern life and nature co exists. A Havana vacation experience is usually full of attractions. You can stroll along the Malecon, the two-mile walkway along the seafront or just make a trip to El Morro, a typical Spanish fort which dates from the 16th century. From the faded charm of Old Havana to the brilliant “Plaza de la Revolucion”, you can hear the Havana Music floating out from every courtyard. In short, Havana has traditions, institutions museums that serve as true bastions for humanity and make it a prioritized destination in Latin America.

Weather in Havana

Havana is the capital of Cuba, a tropical country with two seasons. It is a lively town that offers a lot whole year round.  So anytime is the best time to visit Havana. You will not be bored as you will be able to learn and earn a lot from the visit regardless of when you take your vacation. The average temperature in Havana is 27° Celsius. But there are seasonal fluctuations of 4 to 6 degrees depending on the month. Mild climate in Havana is pleasant any time of the year. Winter months are warm, but easier to handle as average temperatures are in mid 20° Celsius. September and October months are the worst tourist months due to the hurricanes. While the average temperature in Havana makes this an ideal vacation destination, you should carry plenty of drink, lots of water sunscreen, and relax.

Havana Attractions

Malecon

Walking along the Malecon is one of the most popular tourist activities in Havana. Malecon was built in 1900’s. It is a pedestrian walkway that features six lanes of important city roadway. These lanes serve as the major arteries as they connected every corners of the city with each other. Malecon is the most popular meeting place in Havana for a parade, special festivals, social gatherings or watching the sunset. If you don’t have time to walk across entire Malecon, choose to walk through Central Havana as there you can find some astonishing historic buildings.

Old Havana

Locally known as La Habana Vieja, Old Havana is also a popular tourist destination. In fact, government has taken some stern steps recently to protect and renovate the colonial era structure of this place. You can find some old churches and mansions that will take you back to the ancient times. UUNESCO has declared Old Havana as a World Heritage Site. As a tourist, here you can also find some of the finest accommodation options in Havana. While traveling Old Havana, you can either go for a guided tour to know the detailed history of the place or just roam around to discover it by yourself!

Museum of the Revolution

Museum of the Revolution was originally designed to house the Provincial Government of Havana. This amazing work of architecture was designed by Maruri of Cuba and Jean Beleu of Belgium. This eclectic design harmoniously combines French, German and Spanish architectural elements. It was the headquarters of the Cuban government for 40 years. The museum offers exhibits associated to the Cuban Revolution and the Cuban War of Independence. Behind the museum, you can see the yacht known as “Granma”. Castro and his band of some 80 men used this yacht to sail from Mexico to Cuba for their coup.

Bellamar Caves

Discovered in 1800’s, the Bellamar Caves are one of the most prominent tourist hotspots in Havana as well as in Cuba. This amazing underground treasure is located near the city of Matanzas. These Caves are the oldest tourist resort in Cuba and its inauguration took place more than 150 years ago. Bellamar Caves is 23 kilometers long; but the general 45 minute walk package for the tourists can cover only up to 1,500 meters. The 159-step staircase helps the visitors to go down into the cave. There are ornate crystal sculptures, underground rivers and ponds, and indigenous pictographs to be enjoyed. The most impressive sight inside the cavern is a 32-century stalactite known as Columbus’ Cloak.

in Texas offers everything that you may look for in a resort destination! There are miles and miles of sandy beaches, great lodging facilities, wonderful seafood restaurants, superb shopping experience and all these in a semi-tropical climate.  Galveston is located only 50 miles southeast of Houston and is considered as an easy getaway for weekend or a vacation. The island was named after Bernardo de Galvez, the Spanish Colonial governor and general. In the early decades of 19th century, Galveston became a village of pirates. But the modern Galveston is a place of festivals, special events and attractions that are enjoyed both by the islanders and tourists alike.

Galveston is considered as one of the most popular year around coastal destinations in Texas. It is an island in the Gulf of Mexico that is well connected to the main land by a bridge. Galveston is a city with many historical and cultural attractions, water sports and a beautiful resort. The best time to visit Galveston is just before the celebration of ‘Mardi Gras’ or ‘Fat Tuesday’. During this time, people gather on the streets of Galveston for twelve days and celebrate the occasion. The program is full of parades, live music, parties and of course wild costume shows. The accommodation facilities in Galveston are simply superb! You can book hotel rooms in the heart of the city but they may charge your pockets hard. A better option is many of those rental residences with beach access. They allow you to stay connected with nature and never create big holes inside your pocket!

Best Time to Visit Galveston

Galveston weather is something between the temperate and the subtropical. Summer temperatures are persistently around the 90°F or 32°C. The winter temperature in Galveston rarely drops below the 40°F or 10°C. But the winter temperature is not ideal for swimming and beach activities. So, if you are more inclined to enjoy the beach life here, avoid winter season. The best months to visit Galveston are March, August and October. The middle summer months are extremely hot and highly humid which makes daytime activities difficult.

Galveston Attractions

Big Reef Nature Park

Galveston has a lot more to offer the tourists beyond the celebrations of Mardi Gras. During your trip, make sure you make a visit to the Big Reef Nature Park. If you are a bird watcher, you will certainly find this place appealing as you can find more than 500 species of birds fluttering their wings here across the horizon. The list includes egrets, herons, ducks, gulls and terns. If you seek an opportunity to take a stroll or to fish in a natural tidal marsh environment, walk along the East Lagoon Nature Trail to capture a look at the wildlife.

Moody Garden

Moody Garden is another famous Galveston attraction. In fact, most of the tourists consider Moody Garden here in Galveston, Texas is the premiere destination in this island. There are luxury hotels and three gigantic glass pyramids inside Moody Garden. Imagine a space age Egypt and you can get an idea about the atmosphere of the place. Moody Garden is surrounded by white beaches and clear blue lagoons and lush tropical gardens. One of the most spectacular things here is the Rainforest Pyramid. It is actually a ten storied building made of glass that houses waterfalls, caverns, wildlife, cliffs and a tropical forest. If you miss to visit the Moody Garden, you miss half of the attractions in Galveston.

The Strand

After visiting the astonishing Moody Garden, your ideal next stop could be The Strand, the historic downtown district. Being the famous historical district in Galveston, Texas; it encompasses the charm and welcoming feel of the city’s small town ambience. The restaurants, strand shops, museums and galleries here offer some of the Galveston attractions worth checking out in the area. If you visit The Strand in the evening, you can feel the charm of Galveston nightlife over a few drinks. You can simply walk down to visit this amazing place.

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island

With an extensive collection of awesome aquatic adventures, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island is a perfect place to make the kids happy! You can enjoy some amazing attractions and rides that the park offers during the summer season. The fun adventures include a large wave pool, thrilling speed slides, uphill water coasters, whitewater rapids, kid’s water playgrounds, family raft rides, relaxing hot tubs, the Boogie Bahn surf ride and the park’s signature activity: Transportainment River System. If playing around in the water doesn’t attract you, just relax in the steaming warm waters and enjoy the summer! It is the only heated indoor water park in Texas.

Seawolf Park

Seawolf Park was built on an immigration station site. It features a three-story pavilion with a view of Galveston harbor. The place is a perfect playground area, picnic site and a fishing pier. USS Cavalla, a World War II submarine and the USS Stewart, one of the three destroyer escorts in the world are the two key attractions of this place. You can also see some other military hardware here that are open for tours. Seawolf Park is available for school field trips, company picnics and private parties.

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum

Only a block off The Strand and less than an hour’s drive from downtown Houston; you can visit the petroleum capital of the world, OEC or the Offshore Energy Center that operates its facility, the Ocean Star here. It is a completely unique museum with a learning center. You can opt for a leisurely, self guided tour here to see the process of drilling, geological exploration and oil and gas production. You will also find the offshore drilling equipment, along with the exhibits and videos on three levels of this refurbished offshore drilling rig. To enjoy a more complete trip here, you may also buy your copy of the official “Ocean Star Self-Guiding Souvenir Tour Guide Book.” The book has more than 150 photos and brief information about the museum’s displays, models and equipments.

Barbados, the easternmost of the Caribbean islands is surprisingly sophisticated but also retains its natural beauty and charm. It is the land of contrasts, a unique paradise on earth where the old happily co-exists with the new. The brightly painted rum shops standing next to the hi-tech glass and marble offices, donkey carts driving alongside the modern SUVs-the togetherness in spite of the disparity is clearly visible. This paradise on earth is bordered by the tumultuous Atlantic Ocean on the East and by the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea on the West. Moving from one coast to another here will mesmerize you with some breathtaking natural scenery. Affectionately called as the “Little England”, a certain British temperament prevails here; in place names like Dover, Hastings, Lancaster, afternoon tea habit to left hand drive. Barbados is one of the most sought after tourist spots not only in the Caribbean, but in the world. Along with the sandy beaches, exceptional culinary delights and exciting nightlife, the guests fall in love with this island once they experience the charm and friendliness of the people here. The inhabitants of the island, the “Bajans”, have mastered the art of fine living. They pride a vibrant culture passionate in spirit and full of life. Spend a day on the white sandy beaches, try some fly fishing or enjoy a rum punch; Barbados will teach you how to live life to its full. Visit Barbados to celebrate living!

Best Time to Visit

Barbados enjoys a tropical, balmy climate that is cooled by continual trade winds blowing in from the east. The fresh breezes, warm sunshine, and sufficient rainfall are a recipe for year-round terrific weather which makes it just ideal for outdoor activities. The weather is warm and sunny all year round with an average daytime high of 75 – 85° Fahrenheit. The nights are usually slightly cooler. The best time to visit Barbados is between December and May. However, the tourists should be aware of the possibility of short tropical rainstorms and the less frequent hurricane season which is in September and October.

Barbados Attractions

Beaches

Barbados beaches are truly some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. With Mother Nature’s gracious award of 70 miles of palm adorned, sun saturated beaches with crystalline, azure water; the island of Barbados generously provides a tropical respite that matches nothing other in the world. There are 60 beaches in Barbados spread across 70 square miles which offers more than 3000 hours sunshine annually. The west coast offers you dusty white beaches and calm waters where you can sit back and relax with a rum punch in our hand! In the eastern shoreline, the trade winds and thunderous waves have carved some impressive coral structures. The southern part of the island has flawless sands and reef protected waters; just ideal for swimming and snorkeling. In the North, the coral and sandstone cliffs rises straight out of the sea and reaches up to a hundred feet in height. The Crane Beach is recognized as one of the best ten sea beaches in the world.

Natural Attractions

Barbados is an island with great natural treasure. Be it the stunning beauty of the underground caves, or the mesmerizing vistas and the tropical colors of flora found here, Barbados natural beauty will still your breath away. While visiting Barbados, make sure you don’t miss the Harrison’s Cave. Here you can travel deep beneath the earth to explore the calm glassy pools and hear the rushing of the streams. The different shapes and sizes of the stalactites and stalagmites and the delicate flowstone formations here will surely amaze you. Folkestone Marine Park, on the other hand, features an artificial reef. This is an underwater park with exhibits, diving and beach facilities. Folkestone has a good beach that provides many water-related activities along with fresh water showers and shops. There is a museum with marine and coastal environment displays, exhibits of the island’s fishing industry and a salt water aquarium. The Animal Flower Cave is located in the parish of Saint Lucy, the most northerly point of Barbados. The walls of the Cave are full of interesting green and brown formations caused by the oxidation of iron and copper. Errol Barrow Park is posthumously named after late Errol Walton Barrow, former Prime Minister and a national hero of Barbados. Some other attractions in Barbados include Blackmans Gully, Chancery Lane Swamp, Lazaretto Gardens, Welchman Hall Gully, Turners Hall Woods, Barbados Wildlife Reserve, Andromeda Botanical Gardens and more.

Nightlife Attractions

When the sun goes down in Barbados, the nightlife begins. No matter wherever you travel on the island, you’ll surely find a suitable place to celebrate the magical spirit of the island. The wine and sports bars, the reggae, jazz and nightclubs to the opera and live theater; you name it, you’ll get it. A night spent in St. Lawrence Gap, Bay Street or Baxter’s Road beneath the light of the Barbadian moon will be a experience of your lifetime. The clubs and bars here feature live entertainment almost every nights of the week. The bands generally play local music like calypso and reggae. But you can experience the music of several excellent R & B bands as well that play top international music, sometimes with a Caribbean beat! The Whistling Frog’s Party nights with Karaoke, a street party and live bands will entertain you for sure.

The history of Anguilla, the northernmost of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, began around 4000 years ago. It was a lush island covered in dense rain forest. In 1493, Christopher Columbus sailed by the island during his voyage to the New World. Spread approximately over 35 square miles, the island is flat, made of limestone and coral and covered mostly with rock, some trees, scrub oak and small salt ponds.  There is very little farmable land here. But the inhabitants of the island are warm and welcoming. The rich history of this island is embodied in its heritage and culture.  The tourists become overwhelmed by the care and concern of the friendly and welcoming Anguillans and are quickly embraced as friends. Be it a luxury, 5 star resorts or a villa, apartment hotel or condo beach club; the innkeepers value their guests and make sure you have a great vacation experience. Anguilla prides 33 of the finest beaches in the world! The view of the stunningly white, powder-like sand beaches meeting the gentle sea of clear water colored in vibrant and varied hues of turquoise is certainly a feast to your eyes. A trip to Anguilla in your next vacation may turn out to be a great idea.

Best Time to Visit

The weather of Anguilla is best described as tropical with warm temperatures, sunny conditions and light north-easterly winds. The rainfall in Anguilla is also lesser when compared to most other Caribbean islands. The average annual temperature of Anguilla is nearly 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature varies only slightly in warmer and cooler periods. The best time to visit Anguilla is between December and April when tourism is at its peak. Make your bookings in advance to avoid rush.

Anguilla Attractions

Anguilla is a small island of only 35 square miles, but it has a lot of natural wonders to offer the tourists.  Some of the most sought after tourist destinations in Anguilla are:

The Valley

The Valley is located at the very heart of Anguilla. It is not just the major town in the island, but it is also the political and cultural center of Anguilla. While visiting The Valley, you can have our finger in the numerous shops and cafes in the town and experience the way of life of the locales.

Sandy Ground

Located just a couple of miles west of the Valley, the tourists can visit the Sandy Ground, another tourist hotspot in Anguilla. The bay here in the Sandy Ground is the main port of Anguilla, gateway for the yachts and boats. While exploring the area around, you may see a large salt pond here. These ponds produce a high amount of salt that is used by the locales and also carried to the other parts of the Caribbean. The place is also considered as the bird watchers’ paradise; a wide variety of birds including herons and different water birds can be found in this area.

Prickly Pear Cays

Prickly Pear Cays is a top travel destination for tour boats. These islands are located off the shore of Anguilla and offer a number of caverns and ledges to the tourist. These caverns are a must visit spot for any adventure tourist. The ledges, on the other hand, offer some breathtaking views of the surroundings and are considered as jump points for the drivers.

Windsong Villa Garden

Being a traveler, you must take your time out to visit Windsong Villa Garden while travelling the eastern part of Anguilla. Even if you are not interested in nature and biology, the magnificent natural beauty of the garden will simply take your breath away. Here you can learn about a wide variety of the local plant life and vegetation.

Island Harbor

Island Harbor is a small fishing village. The place is not fully developed yet as a resort area. Still, hundreds of nature lovers flock into this place each year to experience the untouched beauty of nature. The key attraction of this place is the Big Spring. It’s an ancient cave that contains an underwater spring. This spring was the key source of water to the villagers for years. You will be amazed to see the number of paintings by the ancient Amerindians here.

Shoal Bay East

This is a popular sea beach in the north-eastern part of Anguilla. The mesmerizing white sand made of coral stone in this beach draws thousands of visitors from across the globe. The Fountain, Anguilla’s top archeological site is located here. Fountain is famous for the underground cavern where you can find numerous ancient stalagmite carvings. But access to the Fountain is only restricted to the people performing archeological studies.

Scilly Cay

Locate just off the shore of the Island harbor is the Scilly Cay, a private island that offers the visitors with a variety of modern day amenities. During your visit to Scilly Cay, you can take a shower in crystal clear water or listen to some local music and relax! There is a fantastic restaurant and bar in this island for the tourists.

Scrub Island

Scrub Island is situated only two and a half miles off the north-eastern coast of Anguilla. The island is deserted; still it has much to offer to the tourists. Scrub Island is a popular snorkeling point for most adventure tourists. The island is also the best place to take a look at the local vegetations and the native wildlife.

The British territory of Anguilla is small compared to many of the world’s resort areas; this long eel shaped island is fast becoming a favorite tropical destination for many travelers worldwide.

Guadeloupe represents the best of France – a completely modern infrastructure and delicious food that amalgamates with the traditional local culture of these islands; something the locales are proud of and are eager to share.  The islands were first discovered by Columbus in 1493 and became a French colony nearly after 150 years, in 1635. In 194, Guadeloupe was provided with the status of French Overseas Department. Their close association with France developed a strong French influence reflected in the local flavors and ingredients, culture and even in the currency. Guadeloupe comprises the butterfly-shaped islands that are joined together by a mangrove swamp. The left “wing” is Grande-Terre, and the right “wing” is Basse-Terre. The nearby smaller islands include La Desirade, Marie-Galante and Les Saintes. When it comes to natural beauty; Guadeloupe, a part of the French West Indies, offers it all. You can enjoy waterfalls, rainforests, sandy beaches and charming villages during your trip to Guadeloupe. The Basse-Terre is mountainous and lush, but the Grande-Terre is mostly flat and dry. Once stepping into the smaller surrounding islands, you’ll realize that over the centuries, society has changed very little here. Terre-de-Haut, home to the families descended from Breton sailors, offers pristine beaches and astonishing natural beauty. Marie-Galante in the southeast is known for spectacular beaches and produces some of the best Caribbean rum. The remnants of colonial sugar mills prove the island’s glorious past as a leading sugar producer.  To the northeast, you can find La Désirade. A day trip here will enable you to experience some untouched landscape and beaches.

Guadeloupe is one of the more developed islands in the Caribbean. In fact, the tourists who are expecting a rural airstrip during their arrival here might be in for a shock to see the thoroughly modern airport here. But modern city life has not snatched its fair share of green and this co-existence of nature and modern amenities is what makes Guadeloupe a tourist hotspot.

Best Time to Visit

Guadeloupe is a warm destination and remains so year-round. So anytime is good time for a trip to Guadeloupe. However, the most popular time to visit here is between December and April when people from the North come to escape cold winters. The months between May and November are considered as the low season. If you can plan a trip in May and June; you can be the ultimate gainer. The weather during this time is pleasant, there’s no threat of hurricanes, and prices tend to be a lot lower.

Guadeloupe Attractions

Grande-Terre

Among the two main islands of Guadeloupe, Grand-Terre is flatter and lower of the two. It is mostly between 40m and 135m high. The island is distinguished by its crumbled limestone composition and many stretches of beach. Most of the land in this island is covered with silver and green sugar cane fields. Grande-Terre forms the eastern wing of the island. It has a string of beach towns that offer the tourists all possible variety you may look for during a holiday trip. Be it the surfing schools, the beach bars or the long stretches of beautiful sand where azure water laps at the toes of French Mademoiselles, it’s all here. Pointe-à-Pitre is the biggest town in this island. It is actually a European-style shopping village that offers quality goods at an estimated discount of 20 to 30 percent. You can find a lot of museums here.  Saint-John Perse and the Schoelcher Museum, two of the finest museums in Guadeloupe, are accommodated in colonial manors. The Edgar Clerc Archaeological Museum enriches the visitors about the Amerindian ancestors of Guadeloupe. The nature lovers can also seek out the orchid garden, the zoological garden along with the coffee and cocoa plantations.

Basse-Terre

Basse-Terre forms the western wing of the island. This part of Guadeloupe is greener and a popular tourist spot among the nature lovers.  An astounding volcano, La Soufrière, lies sleeping at its heart which is the highest point of the Eastern Caribbean at 4,813 feet. Hiking trails and a Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve offer adventure for tourists who prefer move around than just relax in their holidays. You can drive through the nearby rain forests in the 74,100 acre Park National de Guadeloupe, or spend a day on Grand Anse, one of the best beaches in Guadeloupe known for especially soft sand. The wildlife is equally awe-inspiring. If you are a bird lover, you might spot cow herons, sugar birds, moor hens, black woodpeckers or sand brown gannets. However, if relaxing is what you prefer during holidays, Basse-Terre can surely make you happy as well with plenty of places to sit back and recharge your batteries while everyone else tires themselves out.

Smaller Islands

There are a number of small archipelagos in the south of the butterfly-shaped ‘mainland’ of Guadeloupe. A trip to these islands gives you a taste of Guadeloupe’s yesteryear. Ranging from the La Désirade, the cosmopolitan Terre-de-Haut to the largely rural Marie-Galante, each of these smaller islands have their own character and complete the long list of fundamentals that make Guadeloupe.

You can drop in the colorful beaches of Feuillere, Saint-Louis, Capesterre, Vieux- Fort and others. You can choose to swim or take sunbath in these beaches or simply soak your feet in the foaming turquoise waters. It is the quality of these beaches, the splendor of its magnificent rivers and waterfalls that establishes Guadeloupe’s native name, the ‘island of beautiful waters’.

Suriname, formally known as Dutch Guiana, is the smallest independent country in South America. Located on the northern part of the South American continent, with the Atlantic Ocean to its north and Brazil to its south; the majority of Suriname’s population lives along the coast due to the craggy, untamed interior. The country has developed a mixed culture. This multicultural population points at an eventful past as the indigenous Amerindian population was joined by the Dutch and English settlers, Indonesian, Chinese and Indian labors together with the slaves from West Africa in different course of time.  Today it retains a friendly, easygoing way of life that allures to you escape from the tiresome daily life. The principle reason to visit Suriname is its superb collection of nature reserves and parks along with the country’s captivating picaresque beauty that is still almost entirely untouched by tourism.

The country is known as the “beating heart of the Amazon” and you need to visit Suriname to appreciate this title. Be it the Galibi Nature Reserve known as a nesting ground of giant leatherback sea turtles or the tropical rainforests of the interior, you’d be hard pushed to match your experiences elsewhere. Suriname is one of those rare countries in the world that are proud of their eco-system. The government and citizens do their level best power to protect it as well as educate others about its importance.

Best Time to Visit Suriname

Suriname is located near the Equator, thus the climate here is tropical, sticky and hot throughout the year. You can enjoy two rainy seasons in Suriname; a longer rainy season that starts from April and continues up to mid August, and a shorter one that stretches from December to February. Being a tourist, you should avoid the rainy seasons as they inevitably result in flooding and landslides in the interior parts of the country. You should always opt for the dry seasons; that is, from early February to late April and between mid-August and early December. It is the perfect time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the country without any risk.

Suriname Attractions

Paramaribo

Paramaribo is the capital city of the Republic of Suriname. Historians believe that the name ‘Paramaribo’ is perhaps derived from ‘Parmirbo’, an old Amerindian village. Since 2002, Paramaribo has secured its  place on the UNESCO World Heritage List of historical monuments. St. Peter & Paul Cathedral at the Henck Arronstraat is one of the key attractions here. The cathedral is completely constructed of wood and is the largest wooden building in South America.

Colakreek

Colakreek is only an hour drive away from Paramaribo. It’s a creek and one of the most popular places for outing. The place got its name because of the color of the water that runs through the creek. Colakreek provides a quick get away from the city life with leisure such as fishing, swimming, outdoor sports, jungle walks or just relaxing. It’s a perfect entertainment spot both for you and your family. A day’s outing here is fun, but an overnight stay here is a lot more exciting. The parking, first aid and security measures here are sufficient and satisfactory. You can get tables and chairs, umbrellas and tents, huts and camps for rent here. During an overnight stay, a visit to the neighboring destinations like Carolina Kreek, Derde Brug and Zanderij 1 may prove to be a great idea!

Kwamalasamutu

Kwamalasamutu is located deep in the south of Suriname, close to Brazil. The word means bamboo and sand, both characterizes the Sipaliwini River with its many sand beaches and waving bamboo. This village is home to twelve different tribes including the Trio, the Wajana and the Akurios. The tribes are shy but friendly. They live from hunting, fishing and slash and burn agriculture. Kwamalasamutu is famous for the genuine hospitality of the inhabitants, the traditional native culture and mesmerizing natural surroundings. Listen to the ancient old stories, myths, legends and tales told by elderly villagers who master the art of storytelling. You can also enjoy a crash course of traditional ‘Bow & Arrow shooting” in the village. Move your body with the rhythm of the enchanting tribal music created with instruments made of turtle shell and deer bone or just relax after a refreshing dip in the sparkling river water.

Nickerie and Bigi Pan

Nickerie is the second most populated district in Suriname. It is located in the east of Suriname and borders the District of Sipaliwini, Coronie and The People’s Republic of Guyana. The population of Nickerie is about 40.000. The Capital of Nickerie is called ‘Nieuw Nickerie’. In this district you can find the nature reserve Bigi Pan. It is actually a marshland that was later authorized as a domain territory. The entire area is maintained and supervised by the National Forestry Management Department that aims to maintain the eco system of the place and make others aware of it. 122 different species of bird are found so far in the Bigi Pan and the list includes some rare species like the red ibis, fish-hawk, stems and stilt-walkers. Bigi Pan is an ideal holiday destination for birdwatchers.

Suriname is relatively safe to all levels of travelers. If you are visiting Suriname for the first time, sticking to the places like the coastal areas or the colonial capital of Paramaribo is a good idea. But the veteran travelers and eco-tourists can always strike out into the interior. The local cuisine is a combination of East Indian, Chinese and Javanese. Thanks to the tropical nature of this country, fruits are a common and popular item in daily menu. In fact, Suriname prides some of the most delicious fruit juices in the world. Dutch is the official language here, but English is understood almost everywhere. But if you plan to visit Suriname, it is recommended to get yellow fever, tetanus-diphtheria and hepatitis A vaccinations in order keep you trip safe and healthy.

Rediscover your dreams as you travel around and explore the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Be it a romantic getaway, family vacation or sailing charter, British Virgin Islands provide you with an unforgettable experience and adventure. The main islands here are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke. Known as “Nature’s Little Secrets”, the British Virgin Islands has very little desire for mass tourism which makes it an escape from the glittery nightlife and bustling souvenir shops associated with most of the Caribbean islands. These islands enjoy miles of serene beaches and are considered among the best cruising spots in the Caribbean. The pure turquoise water here also provides a perfect setting for unparalleled Diving and snorkeling adventures. Go scuba diving among the spectacular coral reefs with turtles and rays circling around you. Enjoy some of the finest guided saltwater fly fishing in the entire Caribbean or go for an exciting deep sea fishing adventure hooking up Permit, Bonefish, Tarpon, Wahoo, Marlin and Tuna. Explore one of the many shipwrecks that took place around the British Virgin Islands, including the most famous “Wreck of the RMS Rhone.” Here you will find an amalgamation of history, adventure and romance as you explore those coves and anchorages where in the buccaneers and pirates waited for passing vessels and preyed upon their cargo and treasure in the days bygone.

Best Time to Visit

The British Virgin Islands experience warm weather year-round and tropical showers are not frequent but can occur at any time. Seasons in the British Virgin Islands fall into a harmonious balance with nature that, in the past, has always led to an agrarian lifestyle. However, the most popular time to visit is between November and April when most international visitors come to escape colder weather. The summer season, from May to November, is rather less busy since it is the rainy season. The summer months provide the best prices, particularly from July to September.

British Virgin Islands Attractions

Beaches

The beaches here in the British Virgin Islands actually come in all shapes and sizes. No matter if you are relaxing on the beautiful white sands in the sun at Elizabeth Beach, surfing in the Apple Bay or just slipping in your anchor at the well known Deadman’s Bay, every beach in the British Virgin Islands will attract you for their uniqueness.  The best part of a trip to the British Virgin Islands is; with the endless skies and inviting tranquil water, you can plan a new beach adventure every day. Cane Garden Bay, Lambert Bay, Mahoe Bay Beach, Savannah Bay Beach, Trunk Bay, Sandy Cay, Cow Wreck Bay Beach, Loblolly Bay Beach are only some of the fascinating, pristine beaches you can found in the British Virgin Islands.

BVI Historic Sites

The history of the British Virgin Islands tell the enchanting story of pirates, slavery, fishing and agricultural era. You can experience the past history of this place by touring the Forts, Copper Mines, National Parks, Museums, Churches and old Plantation Estates here. The old memory of sugar fields from the days gone are refreshed while visiting the Josiah’s Bay Plantation. With a rich past history and fascinating culture, you can easily realize why the British Virgin Islands have always played an important role in Caribbean history.

Lower Estate Sugar Works in the Tortola Island was the site for sugar production in 1940 and cotton production in the 1900’s. Fort Burt was originally built approximately 20ft above sea level; this site offers breathtaking views of Road Harbour and the surrounding islands. Presently the fort is used as a hotel and restaurant where meals are served during breakfast and dinner. Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society works tirelessly to preserve Jost Van Dyke’s maritime tradition. Mount Healthy Windmill National Park is actually an 18th century windmill located at Mount Healthy. Slaves worked here to harvest and process raw cane into sugar. Here you can see the ruins of the boiling house and remnants of the animal mill round, distillery, hospital and storage shed. Owned by renowned diver Bert Kilbride, Saba Rock Nautical Museum showcases artifacts from the wreck of The Rhone and other shipwrecks. Located on Main Street and very close to The Sir Oliva Georges Plaza, the Virgin Island Folk Museum has some Arawak and Carib pottery and stone tools. This small museum also sells paintings, maps, t-shirts and gifts. Zion Hill Chapel is an early 19th century chapel, built atop Zion Hill, was the site of celebration on the Day of Emancipation in 1834.

National Parks

Most of the natural assets in the British Virgin Islands are safeguarded by The BVI National Parks Trust. Established in 1961, this trust operates one of the region’s most compendious national parks systems. In total, there are twenty national parks, which surrounds a stunning cluster of mundane and marine areas including tropical forests, historic sites, bird sanctuaries and one of the world’s most famous shipwrecks; each a jewel in their own right. The responsibilities include preservation of all flora and fauna within the parks, regular maintenance and constant upgrading of facilities to improve the visitors’ experience and scientific research. Among the most popular ones, Sage Mountain National Park encompasses the highest point of a ridge running east/west along the spine of Tortola. Gorda Peak National Park is the second highest point in the British Virgin Islands and supports some of the best dry forest remaining in the Caribbean.   The Baths National Park strikes the tourists with its numerous giant, granite boulders; some of them are as large as 40 feet in diameter. To the East of The Baths is Spring Bay, the natural beauty of this area is hallmarked with large granite boulders and beach with excellent swimming and snorkel opportunities. Most of these sites are accessible by boat, the rest are accessible easily with car or taxi. However, visiting the national parks here can be the highlight of your trip.

Visiting Melbourne is a given for any traveler in Victoria, so once you have your Melbourne Accommodation choice squared away, it’s time to start taking in the local scenery.  As in all areas of Australia, the spectacular sites of nature in Melbourne should have their due.  Don’t leave without seeing the Melbourne Zoo and the following three gardens.

Melbourne Zoo
From its humble beginnings to its modern grandiosity, the Melbourne Zoo is the oldest in the country and remains an excellent place for a visit.  Planners decided on the location in the early 1860s and moved animals from the Botanic gardens to its current location.  Though the Victorian gardens were chief among its early attributes, the era of Director Albert Le Souef changed that for good.  With lions and bears, Le Souef began to develop a modern zoo and it now houses over 350 species.

As times have changed, the zoo’s focus has shifted to conservation efforts and education.  Many of the rare species living on zoo grounds need special protection as extinction is not out of the realm of possibility.  The zoo continues to move ahead with the births of exotic animals like the Colobus Monkey and Snow Leopard cubs.

Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens are one of the area’s most famous destinations.  Established in the 1940s and nurtured by master botanist Ferdinand von Mueller, the gardens cover over 36 hectares and receive an annual visit of more than 1 million people.  Mueller enhanced the image of the gardens greatly during his time as Director, establishing the general layout and overseeing the famous flowering of a Giant Water Lily.

Mueller was succeeded by William Guilfoyle, who turned the Royal Botanic Gardens into the showpiece of landscape design it is today.  Guilfoyle used all of the species foreign and indigenous at his disposal to pull off this feat.

Visitors should not miss the Fern Gully, the New Zealand Collection or the California collection.

Carlton Gardens
The 26-hectare Carlton Gardens is a park known for the landscape design within as well as the impressive Royal Exhibition Building.  Both of which were established in the 1870s in preparation for the International Exhibitions held in 1880 and 1888.  They are now designated together as a UNESCO protected site.

Queen Victoria Gardens
The picturesque Queen Victoria Gardens were designed as a memorial to the woman whose name honors the entire area.  Visitors will be impressed by the statue of the queen as well as the giant floral clock made of more than 7,000 natural components.

Puerto Rico is a commonwealth where the easygoing life style of the Caribbean associates with the slick and efficient modern American lifestyle, the mesmerizing Latin rhythm and rose-tinted tropical sunsets. The result we get in hand is a diverse, colorful and unique cosmopolitan culture. The co-existence of funky and happening restaurants alongside the 15th century Spanish forts, concrete shopping malls taking over the land of tropical rainforests and glitzy casinos lying next to some of the world’s most stunning beaches, caves and coral reefs; visit and experience all these in Puerto Rio! This Latin island was first discovered by Columbus on his second voyage across the Atlantic in 1493. Though the Spanish invaders apparently annihilated the native population, remnants of their heritage and folklore still persists in the culture of Puerto Rico. Other influences like the African and American, combined along with the Spanish and Taino culture, makes up the modern day culture of this commonwealth.

Best Time to Visit

Weather should not be a concern while planning a trip to Puerto Rico as the temperatures in this place are very consistent. During the winter, the temperature hardly goes below 73°F. The hottest day, in other hand, rarely rises above 86°F. So any time is good time to visit this Puerto Rico. However, the most crowded tourist months starts from mid-December and stays till late-April. During this time, the weather is nice and sunny; free from the threat of hurricanes. But the prices get hiked up this time and crowd also is generally heavier. If you can make it in the months like November and May, you could get lucky with both the weather and cut-price rates.

Puerto Rico Attractions

Old San Juan

If you are visiting Puerto Rico, you must visit the old San Juan. This is a 465-year-old neighborhood originally conceived as a military stronghold. San Juan is also known as “La Ciudad Amurallada” or “the walled city”. Founded in 1521 located in the Northern Coastal Plains region in the Karst zone, it is a seven-block labyrinth of constricted, steep cobblestone streets lined with fountains, monuments, colonial churches and eighteenth-century constructions. Old San Juan has several plazas like Plaza de San José, Plaza del Quinto Centenario, Plaza de Armas and more.

Art Museum of Puerto Rico

Situated in Santurce in Puerto Rico, the Museum of Art is a non-profit organization that aims to make the visual art of Puerto Rico available to the rest of the world. The museum was inaugurated in July 2000. Since then it has managed to develop a considerably large collection of Puerto Rican art from the 16th century to the present. This five-story building is some 130 000 square feet in size with several galleries of permanent collections, including sculpture, native paintings, video art, ceramics, photography and folk art.

El Yunque

El Yunque is just a day-trip away from San Juan. Located in the eastern part of Puerto Rico, it is a 28,000 acres sub tropical mountainous rainforest. It’s nature’s work of art with sun-silvered streams and thunderous cascades. The Forest prides rare wildlife including the Puerto Rican Parrot, one of the ten most endangered species of birds in the world. Picnicking is a popular activity in El Yunque, picnic shelters are provided with parking and restroom facilities, and drinking water. But as it is a rain forest, do expect some shower and come prepared with your rain gear.

Rincón

The town of Rincón is located in the Western Coastal Valley. It is one of those few places in the Caribbean where you can enjoy some surfing. Rincón, therefore, is known as “Pueblo del Surfing” or “the surfing town” and “El Pueblo de los Bellos Atardeceres” or “the town of beautiful sunsets”. Filled with delightful sights, sounds and friendly people; the place has become the winter Mecca for the skilled surfers. The island has more than 60 good breaks, but when it comes to quality and accessibility, the most popular is Domes. Other popular ones include Crashboat, Antonio’s and Jobos. You can also see the endangered humpback whales here in the winter.

Culebra

Along with Rincón, the other island where both the tourist and the locales prefer to flock in is Culebra. Located around nineteen miles east of Puerto Rico, it is a small island; in fact, smallest of the inhabited Spanish Virgin Islands. The beaches of Culebra like Carlos Rosario, Flamenco and Zoni, are calm and serene. The quiet, unspoiled island is a perfect place for a safe walk in the moonlight. Scopes for scuba diving and snorkeling around Culebra are just outstanding. Hard and soft corals overwhelm the shallows and magnificent reefs encompass the island. Tropical fish and other sea life are also abounding.

Wildlife

If you want to take a glimpse of the wildlife in Puerto Rico, the national parks in and around the islands are the places to be. These parks are maintained by the Department of Environmental & Natural Resources. It is a popular destination for migratory birds as well as the home for endangered species. Puerto Rico is an ideal location to observe dozens of remarkable birds in their native habitat. The wonderful variations in topography on the island allow for interesting plant and animal diversity. You may find the Puerto Rican Boa to be particularly interesting; or perhaps the Coqui Frog, the unofficial national symbol of the commonwealth of Puerto Rico which is also delightfully interesting to observe.

Tourists who visit Puerto Rico will experience a unique energy and spice of the place and its people. The delicious ‘Cocina Criolla’ unique will provide the spice at the dinner table while the salsa dance can spices up your nightlife. There are luminous beaches, intriguing art, adventurous eco-tourism and much more waiting for you in Puerto Rico!

Holiday in the Dominican Republic is a wonderful combination of a thrilling Latin party spirit and a laid-back Caribbean beach life. More than half of Hispaniola, the second-largest Caribbean island is occupied by the Dominican Republic. Wherever you go in the Dominican Republic, be sure there is something unique waiting for you to make your holiday trip a special one. A holiday in Santo Domingo, the capital, is vibrant and exciting with plenty to see and do, including the spot where Christopher Columbus founded the first settlement in the Americas. The capital, with all its modern sophistication, old world charm and Latin charisma, is considered a prime holiday destination. Awesome all equipped hotels, exciting water-sports, sparkling Merengue rhythm and astonishing under-sea life and the coral reefs – here you get it all. Wrap all these with fantastic tropical expeditions, whale watching tours, historical colonial sightseeing tours and day trips to idyllic offshore islets; what you get is a fantastic and memorable vacation in the Dominican Republic!

Best Time to Visit

Any time is a good time to visit the Dominican Republic due to its warm and generally sunny climate all year round. In fact, some people call it ‘the endless summer’. The Caribbean Islands normally experience their high season during the winter months; the same is applicable to Dominican Republic as well. Most activities occur here between mid-December and mid-April. The vacationers are also thoroughly entertained when visiting during this time of the year. The summer months, from June to September, are considered as the low season. Hotel prices, cruise packages and airline prices also fall during this time of year.

Things to Do

The spirit and charm of the Dominican Republic is best reflected through its food, music, and popular pastimes. Globally acclaimed for their handcrafted cigars, professional winter baseball and annual music festivals, the culture of the Dominican Republic is never boring. Here you can experience plenty of things to engage yourself!

Beaches

The beaches here in Dominican Republic are popularly considered as being among the world’s finest, and for good reason. You can find sugar-colored sand spread across more than a thousand miles, gently covered with warm waters so blue and clear that you must see in order to believe it! The super fine white sand and the coconut palm trees are lined across the east coast while you can find the golden sand in the beaches of the north coast. Isla Catalina, just six square miles in size and situated close to Bayahibe, features some of the finest coral reefs in Dominican Republic. You can find a mangrove swamp and sand dunes in this beach and the tourists visit this place for scuba diving and relaxation. Punta Cana is another famous beach popularly referred to as the ‘coconut coast’ for the hundreds of swaying coconut palms spread along the 30 miles of beautiful white sand. San Rafael beach is another hot spot both among the locales as well as the tourists due to a natural swimming pool formed by a waterfall descending from the nearby mountains.

Eco Tourism

The Dominican Republic prides a rare bliss from Mother Nature. It is considered as one of the few countries in the Caribbean that has nine life zones or ecological zones. This diversity of the country plays a pivotal role in developing a remarkable and exciting eco tourism activity that is famous across the globe. The country has both the highest and the lowest sea level points in the Caribbean; Pico Duarte that is 10,128 feet above sea level and Lake Enriguillo, 144 feet below sea level. The area in between is the nature’s playground where you can find tropical forests to arid desert. This provides the country with unmatched options of adventures and activities that will guarantee some hearts racing, adrenaline rushing and senses bursting. The country is a heaven for birdwatchers as you can find more than 300 species of brightly colored birds here that are either permanent residents or migratory birds. Canyoning, a blend of swimming, hiking, jumping, rock climbing and repelling, is a relatively new adventure sport in the Dominican Republic and due to the country’s multitude of mountain ranges it provides an excellent arena for this new adventure game. Caving, Hiking, Horseback Riding are only some of the other popular eco and adventure activities in the Dominican Republic.

Golfing

With world class golfing courses located in picaresque landscapes, no wonder the Dominican Republic is a favorite golfing destination of former Presidents like George H. Bush and Bill Clinton. Some of the courses here are designed by the legends like Jack Nicklaus, P.B. Dye, Pete Dye, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones and Nick Faldo. Las Aromas Golf Club, Jarabacoa Golf Club, Playa Dorado Golf Club, Playa Grande Golf Course are only a few of the globally renowned golf courses to name. Each course offers affordable club rentals and internationally recognized golf pros for lessons.

Cigar Factory Tours

Dominican Republic is the largest producer of cigars in the world. In fact, the country is known to the cigar enthusiasts across the globe as “Cigar Country”. Though Cubans are more recognizable, the Dominicans are of far superior variety and quality. Some of the famous traditional cigar factories like Los Maestros, Grupo León Jimenes Tobacco Company, Fabrica Anilo de Oro and some others provide an opportunity to peep inside if you are visiting the Central region of the Dominican Republic.

The Turks & Caicos Islands or the TCI are an astonishing destination for all nature lovers who wish to spend their vacation in the lap of nature. The Turks and Caicos Islands is actually a country formed with 8 major islands and a number of unpopulated cliffs situated around 580 miles south of Miami. The postal code used in TCI is BWI that represents British West Indies; a varied accumulation of Caribbean islands that include British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Montserrat, Cayman Islands and the TCI. These all are considered as dependent areas of the United Kingdom. TCI is known globally for the coral reefs and world’s most beautiful beaches, nature’s most valuable gift to the country. These pristine sandy beaches appropriately compliment the crystal clear turquoise waters. The islands here are protected by the government that makes sure the natural beauty of these islands is well protected. If you are planning your nest vacation, you should come to TCI and discover why the locales call themselves “beautiful by nature”.

Best Time to Visit

The weather of the Turks & Caicos Islands is somewhat different from most of the Caribbean Islands. A very pleasant weather prevails in these islands even outside of its peak tourist season. The high tourist season here in TCI is between December and April.

Things to Do

Salt Cay

Salt Cay was the center of the Bermudan salt industry, the mainstay of the Turks and Caicos economy from the late 1600′s until the early 1960′s. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the island is largely divided into squares controlled by windmills that no longer turn and salinas holding slowly evaporating seawater. Salt Cay also hosts relics of the whaling industry that once existed. The whaling station at Taylor’s Hill has long been lying in ruins, visitors to this land in the winter stare in amazement at the gigantic Humpback Whales. This is old Turks and Caicos, a direct line to a simpler and slower time.

Caicos Conch Farm

Caicos Conch Farm is a must visit place in TCI. This is perhaps the only conch farm in the world where the Caribbean Queen conchs are cultured from veliger to adult. Here you can experience how the process is done. You will find two very friendly and well-trained conches here that put up a show for the tourists. You can see conch pearls and can even buy some fresh conch to enjoy a fantastic conch salad. Conch is gradually gaining a lot of popularity as a delicious food and chefs across the globe prefer the farmed products of TCI Conch Farm. This farm specializes in exporting Ocean Escargot, Pacific Rim and Island Princess Conch.

Cheshire Hall

If history attracts you, do make a visit to the Cheshire Hall. This two hundred year old ruins of a cotton plantation is located in a striking backdrop of Providenciales or the modern day Provo, as called by the locales of the island. This building is well taken care of by the National Trust and the area offers a fantastic view of the island. Thomas Stubbs had built this hall in early 19th century.
Grand Turk Lighthouse

The Grand Turk Lighthouse in TCI has an interesting history. It was constructed and brought from the UK in pieces in 1852. It was restored in TCI and since then, it works to guard the northern tip of Grand Turk, the capital island of TCI. The lighthouse and its keeper’s house is a well known historic site and are preserved by the national Trust. It is used as a picnic area now as well as an excellent whale watching spot, especially in February and March.

Middle Caicos Caves

Middle Caicos or the Grand Caicos is home to a spectacular chain of limestone caves and the breathtaking limestone steep of Mudjidin Beach. The three main settlements on the island are Conch Bar, Banbarra and Lorimers. The coastline around Middle Caicos is more dramatic than that of the other islands. The limestone caves found here are the largest in the Caribbean. Your camera will never stop while visiting these must-see attractions. There is a trail that links Middle Caicos and North Caicos and in the low tide, you can safely walk across it.

Wades Green Plantation

Wades Green Plantation has recently being developed as a tourist destination. Located in North Caicos, the plantation has links with the Cheshire Hall. This site also is preserved by the National Trust. The ruins of this large farm is a must visit spot for the excursionists and visitors. This plantation had a high reputation as Caicos cotton was considered as the best in the world. Like most plantations in the Caribbean, Wades Green Plantation has a tumultuous history of slavery, escape, revolution and freedom.

The Turks & Caicos National Museum

Grand Turk, the capital island of the TCI, is home to the only national museum of the country; the Turks & Caicos National Museum. Situated in Guinep House, one of the oldest stone buildings of the island, the museum chronicles the country’s culture, life along with the legend of the Molasses Reef Wreck. This is the oldest recorded shipwreck discovered in the Western Hemisphere. The museum also has a gallery dedicated to the Lucayans, the original inhabitants of these islands since 700 AD and suddenly disappeared around 1520. There is a 1000 year old Lucayan paddle which is considered as the only wooden artifact of the Lucayans found till date. The Museum shop offers a wide range of books, crafts, postcards and posters that you can collect as a souvenir. The verandah offers a stunning view of the sea. In 2002, the museum opened a new Space Gallery where you can find starry night sky, photos and space toys.