Summer Plans: Caribbean Islands to Travel to that are Outside the Hurricane Belt
With all that is going on in the world, not only now, but always, I think it’s safe to say that we are all in need of a vacation. Preferably, we should all go on a vacation that allows us to be as carefree as possible. There are countless gorgeous places that you can visit, but if you’re looking to avoid the chaos that the Hurricane season can potentially bring, the list of tropical destinations that you can go to gets a little bit shorter.
Aruba
If you know anybody that has been to Aruba, odds are that you’ve heard them rant and rave about how great it is and how they don’t necessarily have any complaints. Trust me when I say that that’s for a reason.
Aruba is home to some of the most popular places to go scuba diving and snorkeling in the world for those with a taste for adventure and there are also multiple historic sites for those who are looking for a more relaxed activity. Home to the divi-divi trees, everywhere you go will be perfect for a photo that is sure to leave you with infinite memories and your friends with infinite jealousy!
Trinidad and Tobago
If what you’re really looking to get out of this vacation is some peace and quiet for a reasonable price, Trinidad and Tobago may just be the place for you. These islands get you nice and far away from the chaotic crowds of tourists that the Caribbean is known for. That being said, you can expect that where you’re staying won’t look quite like the resorts on the islands that are more populated by tourists.
Staying in a charming guesthouse rather than an all-inclusive resort seems worth the “sacrifice” when you take into consideration what these islands have to offer. While there are more populated places for those who need at least a little bit of excitement, such as the art galleries in Trinidad’s town, even the most enticing experience is more secluded. At night, you have the opportunity to take a trip to Pigeon Point where you’ll be able to go on a paddle-board tour to take in your beautiful bioluminescent surroundings.
Barbados
Although Barbados is close to the Hurricane Belt, it sits just outside of its reach, keeping big storms from hitting the island. If you’re looking for a little more security despite the close proximity, allow me to remind you that the last time that Barbados saw a major hurricane was in 1955.
Aside from the aforementioned beaches, Barbados also has incredible resorts that leave you with little to desire, such as The Crane. If that’s not enough to persuade you to add Barbados to the list of destinations that you’re considering, keep in mind that The Food and Rum Festival takes place every year in October. This festival gives you the chance to not only potentially see a famous chef, but also to try foods that are otherwise outside of your comfort zone. Test your limits and try something new while you’re in Barbados!
Bonaire
Bonaire is another island that is unlikely to experience a direct hit from a storm. Considering the beautiful and unique wildlife that you will see while you’re spending time in Bonaire, I’m sure it won’t come as too much of a surprise that snorkeling and scuba diving are two very popular attractions here with approximately 86 different locations to do these activities!
The island may only be 24 miles long, but the beautiful sites that this island offers are likely to be more than enough to last you a lifetime. Another popular activity here is observing the water from a different angle while you’re in a kayak with a glass bottom. There are many sites that people visit purely to see just how clear the water is.
Saint Vincent
If you’re looking to visit Saint Vincent, you can expect to be greeted with a lush and plentiful landscape that is the home to waterfalls, rainforests, and an active volcano. This volcano is called La Soufrière and one of the coolest things about the site is that you’ll have the opportunity to hike the volcano!
There are also historic locations in the capital city, Kingstown, which has cobblestone streets that are full of character. There is also a botanical garden that is considered to be one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to around 1765. You can also observe the beautiful and vibrantly colored fishing villages while you drive down Leeward Highway. If you’re really lucky, you’ll have time to go to Dark View Falls and see the two main waterfalls that fall right into natural pools.
Bequia
Being just a ferry ride away from Saint Vincent, Bequia is sure to make any tourist that is looking to keep away from crowds happy. Thanks to the fact that this isn’t a major tourist island and the lower population when compared to the population of some of the other islands, it promises an authentic look into the life that the natives live.
If you’re looking for a Caribbean experience that is authentic to those that live there, this is the perfect place for you to visit. The local tourist authority of Bequia gives the island the endearing nickname “The tiny island with a big heart”.
Curacao
While this island is just about as (un)likely to experience any major damage from storms, it’s different from the other islands, especially when it comes to popular activities. Rather than just staying down on flat land and spending time in the water, you also have the opportunity to hike on this island.
That being said, this island isn’t solely about what’s way up at the peak of Mount Christoffel or what’s way down in the water. There is also a beautiful village that is chock full of colorful locations ranging from restaurants to museums, all the way to a floating market!
Grenada
As another island that isn’t visited as frequently, Grenada is another island you may find yourself looking into if you’re traveling on a budget. If you’re traveling here, you’ll have the chance to visit rainforests with multiple waterfalls, you’ll see freshwater lakes that now occupy the volcanic craters, and there’s a pretty good chance you’ll get to see some dolphins by the shoreline.
For those who are looking for more, Grenada is also the home of the first underwater sculpture park in the world!
Panama
In Panama, you’ll have the chance to appreciate the natural wonders of the country. There is a lot to take in between the waterfalls, mountainous locations, jungles, and the thrill of active volcanoes! On top of all of the excitement that nature brings, the culture in Panama is full of life and very easy to lose yourself in.
Conclusion
A lot of people think of tropical places in the Caribbean and think only of the beautiful beaches and clear water, and the hurricanes. However, it is possible to leave the hurricanes behind and see just how much these islands have to offer if you’re just willing to look a little further and tap into your adventurous side. Happy traveling!
