The Caribbean enchants with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white-sand beaches, and lush tropical landscapes, creating an idyllic paradise for relaxation and adventure. Its vibrant culture, a fusion of African, European, and indigenous influences, offers a rich tapestry of music, cuisine, and festivals that captivate the senses.
The Caribbean Sea is south of the Gulf of Mexico, north of South America, and east of Central America. Travelers often include North Atlantic islands like the Bahamas and Turks & Caicos in the region.
There are 700 islands belonging to 33 political entities, including territories (like Puerto Rico), special municipalities (like Bonaire), commonwealth countries (like Jamaica), and independent republics (like Barbados).
U.S. citizens don’t need passports for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Otherwise, a passport is required (even for British nationals visiting commonwealth countries).
The most-visited islands include the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the Bahamas, but small, exclusive islands like St. Barthelemy and St. Lucia have outsized reputations for hospitality.
“Best” is quite subjective, but Antigua boasts 365 choices: one for every day of the year. Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos tops several lists, as does Canouan in the Grenadines and The Baths in the British Virgin Islands.
Requirements vary from country to country, so check individual countries' visitor bureaus for updated information — or ask one of our knowledgeable villa specialists for help.
Most islanders will understand English, but national languages also include Spanish, French, Dutch, and creoles like Patwa, Papiamentu, and Haitian Creole.