Archive for the Category »Islands «

Want a Romantic Honeymoon? Choose From These Top Destinations in the Bahamas
Tuesday, December 13th, 2011 /

There’s no doubt about it, a wedding and honeymoon in the Bahamas is a dream for many newly engaged couples. What many couples don’t consider is the sheer number of destinations available in the chain of islands. If you are planning a wedding at home and a honeymoon in the tropics, how do you choose the perfect destination? We’ve tried to make the searching easier for you by narrowing down the list! Here are our picks for the top five honeymoon destinations in the Bahamas:

The Abacos
If you’re looking for the perfect romantic setting for your first holiday as a married couple, look no further than the Abacos Islands. Picturesque cottages and luxurious yachts moored to the shore give this destination a storybook feel. Diving along the reefs of the island, couples are privy to shipwrecks and fantastically diverse sea life. Relax on the pristine white beaches by day and allow yourselves to be catered to and pampered by superbly trained hotel staff. When you’re ready to venture out, Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour offer a delicious night scene.

The Abacos

Paradise Island
Paradise Island is known well as the Vegas of the Bahamas. Stunning beaches are complimented by a bustling night life full of gaming, revues and nightclubs. Fine dining can be had at any number of the stunning restaurants on the island and pristine white sands are the perfect locale for soaking up the tropical sun. For an incredibly romantic evening, visit the Cloister and watch the sunset as you surround yourselves with tropical gardens and classically ornate statues.

The Exumas
If you want a locale that is a bit less crowded and a bit more secluded, this is the destination for you. Portions of majestic plantations remain and rolling green hills offer a picturesque setting for any activity. Friendly locals are more than happy to answer questions and guide you in the direction of fabulous activities that include snorkeling and diving in startling clear waters. Seclusion is easily found in this chain of islands that are far less developed but no less accommodating than others in the Bahamas.

The Exumas - Bahamas

Andros
The perfect locale for nature lovers; dense forest cover the island that is Andros. Acres of land have been preserved on the island that is home to over 40 species of wild orchid, flamingos, parrots and whistling ducks. After exploring the stunning scenery on land, head to the crystal clear waters and discover amazingly mysterious blue holes and forests of elkhorn coral. Andros is a true nature lover’s paradise.

Eleuthera
Pineapple plantations, dramatic cliffs and colonial villages dot this small island in the tropics. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time the minute you deplane. Pink tinged white-sand beaches, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing, border turquoise waters. Absolutely free from crowds, you’re sure to begin married life as privately as possible. Though the island is small, visitors are never at a loss for activity should they desire to partake.

Ned Stolmeyer is a travel enthusiast and shares his experiences among many popular travel sites. As a frequent traveler and a father of two children, traveling with ease is of the up most importance. He has found his membership in a vacation club to save him time and money on his many trips worldwide.

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How Colorful is the Caribbean?
Friday, December 09th, 2011 /

We usually see and imagine the Caribbean as a haven with white-sand beaches, endless parties and overflowing tropical drinks. Indeed, it is a very beautiful image of Caribbean but the islands offers a lot more that what is seen.

Once you have arrived, you will see a colorful mix of contradictions. The islands house different interesting cultures with a history found on piracy, plantations, revolutions and colonial invasions. The sands on the beaches have a variety of incredible shades, from powdery white and pinkish to mocha brown and midnight black.

World’s Finest Beaches

Since Caribbean is best known for beaches, there are beaches that are suitable for different kinds of people and the mood that they go with. You can choose isolated beaches, for adventure, for a quiet stroll, for socialization, for sense of history, for picture-perfect moments, and for children-friendly beaches. As a matter of fact, you’ll never run out of sun and fun in Caribbean in terms of the number of beaches that you can visit.

Great Dining

Caribbean can feed you in any way that can make you feel comfortable – from fine dining or beach side burgers and barbeques. It has a very diverse cuisine that comes from different parts of the globe. You can choose to eat in different ambiance, from rain forests to stunning beaches. There are also exotic food, a wide variety of fruits, and glorious seafood that you can even catch on your own.

Fun Diving

Caribbean is not just about splendor on the surface. Dive below and you will see untouched paradise – a playground of exotic sea creatures and colors. It is a tranquil world filled with life and mankind never lords over them. For millions of years, the Caribbean underwater world is created and refined by nature. The reefs aren’t the only attraction. If you are more daring, you can go and explore shipwrecks.

Vibrant History and Culture

Caribbean has become a melting pot for different cultures from Asia, Africa and Europe. Because different kinds of people came and lived together with the natives, Caribbean has developed a peaceful culture where people co-exist peacefully with one another.

Countless Sports, Recreation and Wellness

There are different sports and leisure activities available to visitors. The sea and sand offers innumerable land and water recreation such as golf, horseback riding, tennis, sailing, surf riding, parasailing, cruising and more. Caribbean also offers wellness and spa centers that uses local ingredients that are popularly used in high-end products. Indulge yourself to a relaxing treat that will take away stress from a day’s adventure.

Colorful Music

Music is inseparable to Caribbean, an integral part of its life like the sea and the sun. Festivals and other cultural events are alive whenever talented musicians get together which could happen on the beach, street, resorts or town centers. Its music is a rich combination of native and colonial past – and has produced rhythms that made the world sing and dance together.

Treasured Weddings and Honeymoons

Wedding is the most important day of your life and if you want to make it unforgettable, have it in the Caribbean. Whether you are saying your vows or renewing your commitments, it can be made perfect along the beach while the sun sets, in a historical site, or underwater – however you like it to happen. Caribbean is on of the most romantic places in the world.

Indeed, Caribbean is a paradise. You will surely fall under its spell from the moment you dig your toes into the sand or take the first dip into the azure waters. Getting into a Caribbean trip will make you remember that first interaction with sea turtles or the soaring tropical birds in unscathed tropical forests. Its rhythm will make you dance and sing out loud while you sip on tropical drinks. And yes, those soothing massage and afternoon nap in the hammocks are the best way to relax after feasting on scrumptious seafood and spicy delicacies.

Andy works for Kenwood Travel, they specialize in providing the best holidays to St Lucia and the whole of the Caribbean. Comment below for more advice.

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Unforgettable Honeymoons in Aruba
Friday, August 26th, 2011 /

If you want to experience an unforgettable tropical honeymoon, consider relaxing on the beautiful, romantic beaches of Aruba. This sun-saturated island has a lot to offer honeymooners with its mild temperatures, soft breezes and pristine beaches. When you honeymoon in Aruba, you and your partner will feel as if you have a piece of paradise to yourselves.

Aruba is the premier honeymoon vacation spot because of the variety of sights and activities it has to offer. Whether you are a planner or you enjoy spontaneity, you will be pleasantly overwhelmed with your choices. As a romantic getaway, Aruba is ideal. The island boasts seven miles of soft, white sand beaches that overlook clear turquoise waters. The seas and lagoons of Aruba are said to be the most breathtaking in the world.

To add to the storybook experience, you can enjoy a cozy, beachside meal with your partner. Many resorts such as the Hyatt Regency offer romantic packages that include sunset dining. A number of five star hotels are situated on the beach, which affords you endless romantic opportunities. You can also rent a beautiful catamaran and take a moonlit sail or watch the sunrise together on the crystal water.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure on your honeymoon, you can turn your journeys into romantic escapades. Consider sailing to the Huliba Cave, which is nicknamed the Tunnel of Love for its heart-shaped entryway. In the tunnel of the Huliba, you can do some exploring and view some of the most interesting cave formations. Another great couples-themed location is the island’s natural pool that is hidden between rugged cliffs.

There are also countless sports-related activities on the island that are ideal for couples. You can kayak around the stunning Caribbean waters or go on an afternoon horseback riding journey. You will be able view the expansive sand dunes, impressive rock formations and interesting goldmine ruins. You and your partner can also go on a snorkeling adventure and take in the vivid underwater colors of the sea.

If you want to spend some time socializing as a newly joined couple, you can get your fill in the capital city of Oranjestad. There you can do some shopping, view spectacular architecture, and dine in some of the most remarkable restaurants. At the end of the day, if you are still energized, the nightlife of Aruba is also impressive. You can take a nighttime cruise, try your luck at a casino, or celebrate with some dancing.

One of the best places to experience all Aruba has to offer is in a honeymoon destination resort like the Aruba Marriott Resort. Just a few miles from the capital, this ocean-front high-rise hotel has a relaxed atmosphere and exquisite honeymoon suites. You can spend your days resting by the pool and your nights partying at the hotel casino. There is a vast array of package options to suit any of your vacation needs.

For the best all-inclusive resort, consider staying at the Divi Aruba. This resort offers numerous dining options and activities. You can relax by one of the freshwater pools or enjoy the ocean view from your room. The honeymoon package includes a beachside room, candlelit dinner, champagne, gift and a certificate for a free night to celebrate your first anniversary at the resort.

One of the most romantic resorts on the island is the Bucuti Beach Resort. The low-rise hotel is decorated with modern flair, but it is a quaint haven for couples only. Located on Eagle Beach, the resort offers a honeymoon package that surpasses many others. Amenities include a balcony room, champagne, a candlelit dinner on the beach, sunset cruises, a gift basket, and fresh flowers delivered daily to your room.

You can plan a vacation in Aruba virtually any time of the year. This makes it the ideal choice for honeymooning couples. No matter when you plan your wedding, you will be able to enjoy the natural wonders of this magnificent island. A honeymoon in Aruba will be a vacation to remember for a lifetime. Whether you want to hide away on the white sands, go on an exploration adventure, or party all night, Aruba is the perfect destination.

Finding and staying at romantic resorts in Aruba is one of Paul Chancelly’s favorite things to do, that is, of course, outside of writing articles on romantic resorts all throughout the Caribbean.

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Aruba
Sunday, August 21st, 2011 /

Aruba is a magical island. From informal to elegant, modest to grand, Aruba resorts offer comfort, convenience, pampering and warm hospitality.  Opulent high-rise resorts and casual beachfront low-rise are complemented by the natural beauty of turquoise Caribbean waters, pristine beaches and stunning panoramas.  There are countless reasons why you should travel to Aruba. Below are our top 5:  

1. The many sites and fascinating attractions include art galleries, the Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm, Donkey Sanctuary and Aruba Aloe factory.

You will enjoy exploring natural wonders throughout Arikok National Park, Casibari and Ayo rock formations and Indian caves. Walk through history at the Bushiribana gold mill, Alto Vista Chapel and the museums in downtown Oranjestad.

2. Aruba nightlife adds excitement to the island’s quiet desert island persona. Mingle with locals and tourists at any of the scores of casual beach and pier bars that dot the southwest coast from downtown Oranjestad to the far end of the high-rise strip. Weekly managers’ cocktail parties and daily happy hours are island traditions. The strip comes alive after dark with shops, kiosks, movie theatres, cafés, restaurants and bars. Let loose on a wild and wacky barhopping bus. The high-rise area now rivals downtown Oranjestad for trendy venues and after-hours haunts, from karaoke and martini bars to upscale bistros and casual pubs.

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3. Beaches fring the turquoise Caribbean waters, kissed by the sun and cooled by constant trade winds. The beaches include wide shaded expanses, quiet retreats, and busy sunbathing and water sports meccas. Much of the seven-mile strip along the west coast is lined with resorts and packed with activity. Beachgoers relax on their comfortable lounges, lost in their favorite book or enjoying people-watching. Swimming, snorkeling, kitesurfing, waterskiing, tubing, parasailing, banana-boating, and all kinds of wet ‘n wild adventures are just steps away.

Beaches along the windward coast are in more secluded and undeveloped areas. Here magical coves carved out of limestone and inlets formed by the relentless pounding of waves are overlooked by craggy desert terrain. Because of strong undertow and crashing waves, swimming here is not recommended. But the beaches on Aruba’s wild coast do afford tranquility, privacy and unique natural phenomena.

Both coasts afford spectacular, glittering Caribbean views that will surely take your breath away. All beaches are open to the public.

All inclusive vacation options are affordable and fun, and provide an exhilarating hassle-free one-stop stay featuring around-the-clock fun and all-you-can-eat-and-drink!   The perfect option for vacationing on a budget, Aruba all-inclusive resorts not only offer sumptuous buffets and open bars but also locations right on the beach; a whirlwind of water sports and activities; exciting nightlife including casino gambling, brilliant shows and musical entertainment; and comfortable rooms and suites for singles, couples and families with small children.

4. Shop the enormous selection of international brand name products and prices that are 10 – 35% lower than in the United States. Jewelry store-lined streets and upscale malls with prestigious international brands pepper the downtown area, while gleaming new shopping/entertainment centers front the high-rise resorts.

Author bio: Jennifer Brown loves everything related to Aruba! When she is not visiting the island she can often be found writing about her experiences there.

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Caribbean Holidays: Barbados Holidays Are Family Holidays
Tuesday, August 02nd, 2011 /

Caribbean holidays are memorable holidays. The placid waters, turquoise seas, cooling trade winds, the kaleidoscope of colors in the floral gardens and the sweet smell of ripe fruits in the orchards make them memorable. The Caribbean is also known for fantastic family holidays. One of the hidden Caribbean gems is the island of Barbados. This little island in the eastern Caribbean is known internationally for having some of the most exclusive luxury hotels anywhere. Barbados holidays mean endless hours relaxing on pristine white-sand beaches or playing in the surf with the entire family. Want a holiday you will remember forever? Try family holidays in Barbados.

Barbados

Barbados is a relatively small island. It is part of what is known as the Lesser Antilles. The island itself is 166 square miles of beautiful Caribbean real estate. Called Little England because of the speech patterns and cultural sensibilities of the locals, Barbados is sometimes also called Bimshire in reference to its resemblance to an English village. Barbados is outside the main hurricane belt so the island usually is safe from summer storms. That means any time of year is the right time to visit Barbados. All you need is a bathing suit and a willingness to have fun.

Although the island was once a Portuguese and then a Spanish colony, the culture of the islanders is clearly British. School children wear British-style colorful school uniforms, adults love cricket and European football and everyone stops for afternoon tea. Even when the island was granted independence in 1966, they retained Queen Elizabeth II as their head of state. Today Barbados is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary Democracy. The British Crown is represented in local politics by the governor-general.

There is an amazing amount of natural beauty in Barbados. The island has few hills. The highest point is Mount Hillaby in the center of the island. Most visitors to the island are there to enjoy the beaches. Geologically the island is composed mostly of coral. Just offshore, the island is ringed by a series of coral reefs. It makes Barbados a popular destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. The southern and western coasts of Barbados are favored by tourists because of the calm seas and pinkish white beaches. Barbados’ east coast is on the Atlantic Ocean and has rough waters many use for light surfing. The undercurrents there are very strong so caution is recommended.

Family holidays on Barbados are fairly popular. The gentle surf on most of the island makes it perfect for the very young and the very old. There are a host of points of interest on the island that will keep the entire family pleasantly entertained. Places like Welshman Hall Gully, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve and Farley Hill National Park show off the island’s native flora and fauna. Time your Caribbean holidays right and you could be in Barbados for the island-wide Crop Over festival. This Mardi Gras like festival is held throughout July.

Want the perfect place for family holidays? Try Barbados.

You can trust Travel City Direct to offer affordable quality holidays to Florida and the Caribbean.

For a great deal and offers on Caribbean holidays, Barbados holidays and family holidays, visit www.travelcitydirect.com

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Mauritius – Pure Beaches and Green Interior
Monday, July 18th, 2011 /

For a family holiday in the tropics, Mauritius which lies in the south West of the Indian Ocean is currently the most renowned and excellent vacation spot in the world.

view of Ile aux Cerf in Mauritius

There an ideal number of holiday villas or location villa ile Maurice as the locals favor to say is for sure now probably the most sought after format.

The private villas which are located in the coastal resorts of Mauritius are the best choice to the overpriced and cliched hotels.

The most important airlines all provide excellent prices and fly directly to Mauritius from airports such as London, Paris, Rome, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Bombay, Sydney and many more.

Most of these flights are non stop and direct, enabling passengers to settle into their trip, take it easy and relax entirely when they reach the Island.  
 
Mauritius has splendid and world class beaches and a wonderful green interior with many places of interest and a beautiful combination of cultural and historical spots to visit.  
 
There is low-cost and reliable municipal transportation, car hire or taxi service for getting around on your travels.

There is nothing to be troubled about if English or French isn’t your main language because the locals speak multiple languages and the kind and hard working native population look after the visitors well and it is important for them that guests take the time to relax and enjoy their holiday.

These villas offer excellent beach positions, high-quality and reasonable rates and are available to all eager to have a holiday in Mauritius. 

When selecting a Mauritius villa rental, you will find no ties as regards every day preparation and meals and visitors do definitely receive more for their money.
 
Mauritius is an interesting and absorbing island in the sun plus the locals are so happy and only too pleased to receive visitors and encourage them to enjoy the exotic beauty of the country.

This holiday format is an excellent one for the independent traveller and especially for bigger groups and Mauritius self catering accommodation available is nice and simple to reserve online.

The island is friendly, safe and exquisite and also weather conditions just right for all the family to enjoy.

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Antigua – Embracing The Caribbean Philosophy
Friday, April 22nd, 2011 /

Antigua is an oddly shaped splotch of land that lies in the Northeast Carribean, n island of 365 beaches; one for everyday of the year. Antigua is the perfect holiday destination to escape the stresses of everyday life, the island has the perfect warm climate all year round.

Low-lying and volcanic in origin, Antigua and Barbuda form part of Leeward Islands that typifies the ‘Caribbean way of life’. The island is a tropical paradise, take a dip in the clear blue water, sip exotic fruit juices, sample fresh local food and meet the friendly inhabitants wandering the quaint marketplaces. Surrounded by water, Antigua is essentially governed by its rich maritime heritage that backs to Nelsons era. Holidays to Antigua offers some of the best Caribbean sailing you can experience, annually hosting the famous sailing week. Nelson’s Dockyard in the English Harbour is at the forefront of the Caribbean sailing scene, making it a tailor made travel destination for divers due to the reef and network of islands to explore. There are other activities to embrace other than water based ones luxury holidays gives the opportunity to see a raft of wildlife and idyllic scenery. The island is home to a whole host of tropical wildlife; its National parks give visitors the chance to see wild deer, colourful birds and unusual insects.

Antigua’s rich history makes their holidays interesting as well as relaxing. The Museum of Antigua and Barbados is a must-see, telling the story of the islands from its geological birth through to the present day. The museum houses a selection of interesting objects from a a life-size replica of an Arawak dwelling to the bat of Vic Richards, one of the greatest West Indies’ players ever to play the game. Embrace the Antiguan arts community by visiting the Harmony Hall Art Gallery in Brown’s Bay. The gallery hosts a number of annual exhibitions, the particular highlights being the Craft Fair and the Antigua Artist’s Exhibition.

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