Getting ready for your first Caribbean holiday can feel wonderfully exciting, but with so many islands to choose from, getting started can be a little overwhelming. Don’t fret, because this guide will help you understand the basics to plan an unforgettable trip!
Travelling Between Islands
Flying is often the most practical way to travel between Caribbean islands, particularly for longer distances or routes without convenient ferry services. Go with a trusted regional airline like interCaribbean Airways, offering convenient connections to all the top destinations, including St. Kitts, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and more. It can save you almost a whole day of travel and also makes multi-island holidays much easier to plan.
Pro tip: One of the key things to know when flying is that airlines, such as the one mentioned above, have a free-to-join loyalty programme that lets you earn points that can be used for rewards on eligible Caribbean flights.
Planning a Diverse Itinerary
Every island brings something different, so mix up your itinerary rather than sticking to the same experience. Explore colonial sights and cultural attractions, snorkel or relax on beaches, and seek out nature, local cuisine and live music. Spend some time researching each island you plan to visit and see what it has to offer. Of course, remember to leave some unplanned time for “slow travel”… rushing through this paradise rather defeats the point!
Deciding When to Go
The Caribbean enjoys warm weather throughout the year, with December to April offering plenty of sunshine and attracting peak-season visitors; definitely book flights and hotels early during this period. June to November will be hotter and wetter, but sunshine still appears between showers and travel deals can be appealing; when temperatures climb, treat yourself to a spa day! For a useful shoulder-season balance, consider travelling in May or November.
When It’s Time for Packing
Pack thoughtfully for warm, relaxed days, starting with lightweight clothing and two or three swimsuits. Include casual and smarter evening outfits, plus a light sweater or wrap for cooler evenings and a rain jacket for sudden showers. Flip-flops or sandals and comfy trainers are useful, while reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat and sunglasses offer essential protection. For your many outdoor adventures, also bring a reusable water bottle, waterproof phone pouch and small day bag.