Mention a Caribbean vacation and visions of sun and sand, turquoise water, and relaxing in a hammock with a fruity drink come to mind.
But – what if your ideal trip to an island paradise includes more than lazy days on the beach?
What if you want to do things that have nothing to do with water or land sports?
What if you want to….explore?
As they say in Jamaica, “No worries mon!”. There’s a wealth of interesting things to see and do beyond the gates of your amazing all-inclusive resort. Let’s take a look at a few:
Jamaica: Appleton Estate Historical Rum Tour – At the Appleton Estate – a rum distillery that’s known for creating one of the world’s smoothest and most sought-after rums – visitors are given a live demonstration of the earliest methods of extracting juice from sugarcane, followed by a tour of the unique distillation process that Appleton Estate uses. You’ll also visit one of the barrel houses where the rums age to perfection, followed by a tasting of the finished product as you sample a few of the various rum blends.
St. Lucia: Northern History Tour – This tour takes visitors on a journey of the history of St. Lucia over the past several hundred years, as you’ll go sightseeing through some of the most popular historical hotspots on the island. Guests will see the mix of St. Lucian culture come to life as you explore both British and French ruins, see old military barracks and encounter beautiful panoramas from the top of the Vigie Lighthouse with its wonderful views of Castries harbor. You’ll also take in the views of the island’s lush vegetation as you pass through small communities like Paix Bouch where it is alleged that Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife was born. After visiting an old sugar cane estate and dairy farm, the tour ends with a drive to Pigeon Point, and time to explore Fort Rodney, Signal Hill and to visit the old ruins.
Barbados: St. Nicholas Abbey Great House & Railway Experience – Immerse yourself in a historic experience at the 17th century St. Nicholas Abbey Great House and Railway in Barbados. Guests will be intrigued by the era-specific decorated rooms and the grand hallways of the St. Nicholas Abbey as they learn about this “great house”. Barbados is often referred to as the birthplace of rum, and so visitors are treated to a flavorful sample of their award-winning rum, distilled, and aged on property. Before the day ends, you’ll enjoy the spectacular, panoramic views from Cherry Tree Hill when you board the Heritage Railway for a short train ride.
Curacao: Curacao Chichi Sculpture Painting Experience – Visitors will be inspired by some of the Caribbean’s most beautifully designed buildings, painted murals, and colorful displays of culture found on the Dutch-Caribbean island of Curaçao. The guest experience begins with an inspiring walk through some of the stunning visual art projects in Otrobanda, Curaçao, where you’ll learn about the talented artists that have made these creations in the colorful Kaya Kaya District. Finally, you will drive to visit the home of the world-famous chichis, Serena’s Art Factory, where you will have the opportunity to paint your very own chichi and take home a piece of your experience in tropical paradise.
Culture. History. Art. (And rum!) Your vacation to the Caribbean can provide experiences beyond the balmy breezes on the beach! Each island is fascinating and beautiful in its own right, and for those who are looking to discover something new on their trip to the islands, there’s a lot waiting for you.
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