Discovering the Hidden Gems of the Caribbean

Caribbean landscapes and a person kite foiling

By Caribbean Blogger.

One of the hidden gems of the Caribbean

The Caribbean is a region filled with hidden gems. Whether it’s the incredibly clear water and white sand beaches of Bonaire or the diverse wildlife of Saint Lucia, many places are worth discovering in this part of the world. This article will explore five islands: Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Lucia, hidden gems of the Caribbean Trinidad & Tobago, and Bonaire. We’ll look at why each one is worth visiting and give tips for getting there and staying there for an unforgettable trip!

A beach in the Caribbean.
Bonaire is the Netherlands’ smallest Caribbean island.

Bonaire

Bonaire is the Netherlands’ smallest Caribbean island, but it packs a lot into its small space. The island has over 40 caves, which you can explore by taking a tour or going alone. You’ll also find salt flats that are perfect for hiking and bird-watching.

If you’re looking for beaches, Bonaire has plenty of options. Playa Kalki is known as one of the best beaches in the world. Sandy Bay Beach is great for snorkeling, and Lac Bay Beach offers excellent surfing conditions year-round.

Kralendijk (the capital) has some great restaurants and shops along its main street and other attractions like Fort Oranje, where you can learn about local history at this historic fort built during World War II by Dutch soldiers stationed on Bonaire.

Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is another hidden gem of the Caribbean that you should visit. Here’s what you need to know about Guadeloupe:

  • The island is a French overseas department located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It’s known for its beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes.
  • The island has a population of 405,000 people living in just over 1,500 square miles (3,885 km2).
  • The island is home to the Guadeloupe National Park – one of the most biodiverse places in the world.

The island is a popular tourist destination, especially for French and German travelers. It has many luxury hotels, resorts, and golf courses. The island also has a thriving culture with festivals like La Fête de la Musique and Le Carnaval de Guadeloupe.

The island has a wide range of cuisine, from French Creole to traditional Caribbean dishes such as coconut rice and seafood. You can also find food from other regions, such as Japan, China, and Italy. The island’s main exports include bananas, rum, sugar, and coffee beans.

Martinique

Martinique is a French island in the Caribbean Sea and one of the Windward Islands. It’s known for its rum, sugar cane, and tobacco production. The island has many beautiful beaches and waterfalls that are popular tourist destinations.

The island is home to many plants and animals, many of which can only be found in the Caribbean. It’s also home to some rare species, such as the Martinique snake eagle and the Martinique giant lizard.

In addition to being an ideal place for nature lovers, Martinique offers various opportunities for adventure seekers who want to explore caves or climb mountains or learn kitesurfing on their vacations here.

Martinique has one of the best kitesurfing and windsurfing spots in the Caribbean. Here’s a fun fact! Did you know that anyone can kitesurf or windsurf. It’s only hard in the beginning. Although they’re categorized as an extreme sport (kitesurfing more so than windsurfing), with a good instructor you’ll be taught everything you need to know with the emphasis on safety. And with some patience it will become like riding a bicycle, but please never try it on your own. Baz Notik is a kitesurfing & windsurfing school located in Trois Ilets.

Kitesurfer foiling.
Kitesufing instructor of Baz Notik in Martinique foiling during his off time.

Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is a tropical island known for its beaches and rainforests. The Pitons are a popular attraction, and they make up one of the world’s most scenic volcanic sites, with their cliffs rising from the sea. The dormant volcano was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 because of its natural beauty and cultural significance – it’s also home to some fantastic hiking trails!

Saint Lucia has a diverse population, with many British-born citizens making their homes here after retiring from active duty in Great Britain’s armed forces.

Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago are two islands that we can consider hidden gems of the Caribbean. They are known for their beaches, water sports, and history. There is plenty to explore here as there are many cultures to experience on these islands.

Light blue ocean water in the Caribbean.
There’s always a gem to explore on the Caribbean sea!

The Carnival celebrations occur on both islands every year during February or March, depending on when Easter falls that year. The locals celebrate with colorful costumes, music, and dance while they parade through Port-of-Spain (Trinidad) or Scarborough (Tobago) streets.

Are you ready to find a new home in the Caribbean?

If you want to explore hidden gems of the Caribbean, you might want to consider discovering one of these on our list! Moreover, you might even decide to move to this beautiful place. If you love the ocean and spending time with local people, this might be a perfect destination for your new home. If you make this decision, consider looking for professional helpers to assist you with the moving process. Experts from City Movers say that the earlier you start planning your relocation, the easier it will be. After all, settling after a long moving day in the Caribbean will feel like a vacation!

The Caribbean is filled with hidden gems that you will want to discover

The Caribbean is a great place to visit. There are so many hidden gems of the Caribbean that you will want to discover. The beaches are beautiful, and there are many things to do, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. You can also go on boat tours or explore the rainforest on foot or horseback! Also, the food in the Caribbean is delicious! There are so many different types of seafood dishes available at restaurants all over this region that it would take years before you could try them all!

A harbor in the Caribbean sea.
Consider looking for a home on one of these islands.

One thing you may not know about the Caribbean is that it has a lot of beautiful islands. Some of them are famous, like Jamaica or Cuba. Others are less known but just as beautiful. You can plan your perfect beach wedding on one of the islands or cruise to discover these hidden gems and enjoy your time away from home with your family!

Conclusion

We hope you found this list of hidden gems of the Caribbean to be helpful. We know there are many more places to visit in the region, but these are some of our favorites! Let us know in the comments below if you have suggestions for other destinations we should add to our next list.

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For more articles on Caribbean islands go to CoolestCarib.com

Photo Credits:

https://unsplash.com/photos/gF7hhMIC3vo
https://unsplash.com/photos/SBOHLtENzEY
https://unsplash.com/photos/rj8fMHNPXbg
https://unsplash.com/photos/9CJTrF-HnlU

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Exploring the Caribbean Charm of Martinique

Exploring the Caribbean Charm of Martinique

By Caribbean Blogger.

A woman getting ready to dive into the vast blue sea during a sunset with a wooden cottage and infinity pool beside her.

You’ve heard of the Caribbean Islands, with their crystal blue waters, blazing sunshine, and lush, green jungles. But have you heard of Martinique, a Caribbean Island that packs a lot of charm into a small package? This French-Caribbean Island is the perfect destination for a relaxing and adventurous getaway. From its stunning beaches to its unique culture and cuisine, Martinique has something to offer everyone. Let’s get started discovering the Caribbean charm of Martinique.

A Quick Overview of Martinique

You are in for a treat if visiting Martinique is on your to-do list! Martinique is an overseas island considered a region of France. It is located in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean Sea. This small island is 435.5 square miles in size, which means it is quite small. However, don’t worry; it’s still the perfect place to explore French-Caribbean culture. This small island is home to about 370,000 people, many of whom are of French and African descent. Therefore, this island is incredibly vibrant, diverse, and unique.

This area is also known for its tropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. You will be able to enjoy your time in the beautiful outside all year long. And with so many places to explore, this will surely come in handy. There are plenty of resources available online that’ll help you learn even more about this unique island. But, for now, let us move on with our exploration of the Caribbean charm of Martinique.

A beautiful high view of an island surrounded by a bright blue sea.
A unique island surely worth exploring is waiting for you.

Things to Know Before visiting Martinique

Before we move on to discover every aspect of Martinique that’ll surely capture your attention, we must know how to get around and where to find accommodation.

There are several transportation options for getting around Martinique. The island has an extensive public transportation system, with buses and ferries that connect the major towns and villages. Taxis are also available, and they can be a convenient way to get around. For those who prefer to explore on their own, there are rental cars and scooters available. Whatever suits your needs, you’ll be able to find.

Martinique is home to a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. For those looking for a more authentic experience, there are plenty of guesthouses and villas to choose from. There are also camping sites for those who prefer to feel closer to nature while saving quite a penny. 

Discover the Island’s Beauty

Martinique is a Caribbean paradise with an abundance of natural beauty. From its lush rainforests to its stunning volcano, the island offers a variety of environments for exploration. The island is home to the Pitons du Carbet, a mountain range that offers spectacular views of the surrounding islands. You can also find trails that lead to the island’s highest peak, Mount Pelée. Martinique is known for its lush natural beauty, and you can explore it all in the Martinique National Park. This park is home to dozens of plant species, including bromeliads and native orchids. We often forget about our connection to nature. However, addiction recovery experts at Archstone Behavioral Health often talk about the importance nature plays in the healing of the soul. Whether you’re into bird-watching, trekking, or simply enjoying the scenery, Martinique is the perfect place to get away from it all and reconnect with nature.

A woman sitting cross-legged on a yoga mat with her toddler in her lap while meditating.
Take the time while exploring the Caribbean charm of Martinique to rest your body and mind.

Enjoy the Beauty of Martinique’s Beaches

Martinique’s beautiful beaches deserve a section of their own! Even though you may have seen other Caribbean beaches, you’ll be amazed by the stunning beaches in Martinique! From the white sand and turquoise waters of Les Salines Beach to the black sand of Anse Noire Beach, you’ll find something to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, take a trip to Anse Mitan Beach – its shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For a more romantic getaway, visit the secluded Anse Dufour Beach, which is surrounded by lush tropical foliage. And don’t forget to check out the iconic Diamond Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful sunsets. No matter what you’re looking for, Martinique’s beaches are sure to provide the perfect backdrop for your Caribbean vacation.

Water Sports

Every Caribbean island has plenty of water activities to engage in for tourists and locals. Martinique has a unique location in the area called Trois-Ilets with a mini peninsula named Pointe du Bout where you will find more hotels, restaurants, boutique shops, but most importantly Baz Notik, a water sports facility that offers kitesurfing and windsurfing lessons. Although all instructors are French speaking they can communicate in English.

Explore Martinique’s Culture

Martinique is known for its vibrant culture and history. The island has been influenced by both French and Caribbean cultures, making it a unique destination. Visitors to the island can explore the capital city of Fort-de-France, which is full of museums and art galleries where you may learn a thing or two. Additionally, the island also has many historical sites to explore, including the Fort-de-France Cathedral and the 18th-century Fort Saint Louis. Visitors can also take a tour of the various sugar cane plantations for a unique experience. And don’t forget, you can participate in traditional events such as its carnival held every year around February.

Taste the Local Cuisine

From traditional Caribbean dishes like Colombo, a fragrant stew with a range of spices, to fresh fish and seafood dishes like Bouillon de Poisson and Crabes Farci, there’s something to satisfy the taste buds of even the most refined foodie. Martinique’s cuisine is also heavily influenced by French cooking, with dishes like French-style chicken with olives and a range of delicious desserts like coconut tart – all made with local ingredients. Locals here take their food seriously, and they are proud to share their culture and traditions through their cooking. So, if you’re looking for something truly unique and exciting, you can’t go wrong with Martinique’s cuisine!

 A hand with a see-through glove pouring some sauce on top of a juicy piece of meat.
Luxurious and unique food can certainly be found in Martinique.

Go Out into Town and Have an Adventure!

If you’re one of those people that simply want to visit a city and take it in at their own pace, you can certainly do that in Martinique! This island has plenty of cities to explore. However, the capital has it all. The colorful capital, Fort-de-France, has an abundance of shops, from the bustling Rue de la Liberte to the chic Rue Victor Hugo. There are also plenty of markets and malls that offer a wide selection of products, ranging from basic necessities to designer clothing.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, there are numerous specialty shops that sell items like handmade jewelry, local art, and crafts. Although many people may think of the Bahamas when it comes to nightlife, Martinique has an active nightlife to satisfy anyone’s needs. There are plenty of bars and clubs to explore. You can enjoy a cocktail at one of the many beach bars or immerse yourself in the local culture at a live music venue. If you are looking for a more extravagant night, you can enjoy a night out at one of the many casinos. Have fun exploring the Caribbean charm of Martinique.

Photos used:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/infinity-pool-near-beach-3155666/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/green-mountains-1001430/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/cheerful-sportswoman-meditating-in-lotus-pose-with-son-4457982/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/pouring-thick-sauce-on-a-dish-11586832/

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