Off
the Beaten Path Escapes in the Caribbean by Jennifer Smith
The Caribbean is full of popular
destinations where tourists flock to spend a few days soaking up the sunshine,
but those looking to escape the crowds may have a slightly different destination
in mind. The Caribbean is often said to have something for everyone, and
in this case the claims are completely true. Vacationers don't need to
stay on popular islands like Jamaica to enjoy a slice of Caribbean life,
they can visit a number of islands that are "off the beaten path."
Major Caribbean destinations
are filled with well-known spots where tourists flock from around the world,
but even these islands can have some out-of-the-way areas. Still, those
seeking to travel to someplace truly unique can find hidden and untouched
Caribbean islands to be a great choice. Islands like tiny Saba or spicy
Grenada offer up their own unique style.
Every island has its own
personality, and even the smaller Caribbean islands can offer more than
just seclusion. St. Martin, for example, is the smallest shared territory
in the world: A little more than half of the island is French (Saint Martin),
while the other portion is Dutch (Sint Maarten). Spend the day enjoying
the shopping on the Dutch portion of the island, but dine in style with
the French that evening. You'll also avoid the crowds you'll find in better-known
islands.
Grenada, the Spice Island,
is known for its fertile soil that has helped it become one of the world's
top producers of nutmeg. Its lushness is certain to delight travelers who
enjoy taking a trip into nature and French history also lends a bit of
culture, though English is the official language of the island. This island
also has beautiful beaches for travelers to enjoy. Another unusual aspect
of Grenada is its true nature: Grenada is really three islands, though
they are usually referred to by just the one name. Petit Martinique and
Carriacou are the two tiny islands off Grenada's coast.
Saba, too, is unique. This
small, rocky island is better known for its snorkeling than its beaches.
In fact, it's said to have no beach at all, though there are a few spots
where vacationers heart-set on sunbathing can find water meeting a small
stretch of sand. And of course, its beautiful scenery both above and below
the waves can certainly be worth a look.
Don't confuse this island
with any other - Dominica is another oft-overlooked isle. Its raw beauty
has earned it the nickname the "Nature Island" of the Caribbean and it
has remained relatively untouched over the years. Adventurous travelers
can certainly find an escape in this Eastern Caribbean island, where mountainous
terrain provides the ideal setting for a variety of activities.
Though these are not your
only travel options for something a little different in the Caribbean,
they are certainly some of the most intriguing choices. Travelers planning
a true escape to the islands can find it on these and other islands, all
you have to do is take a look off the beaten track.
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