Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the global tourism industry and also thwarted the travel plans of several holidaymakers, a few countries that rely on heavy tourist patronage for revenue have, in recent times, begun easing their lockdown restrictions as means of rejuvenating the industry.
In the Caribbean, some popular holiday locations have already opened up their borders, but with several safety precautions for those who may want to visit during this period. Pandemic or no pandemic, however, holidaymakers who usually throng the Caribbean in search of some sun, white sand beaches and crystal blue waters, usually opt for the well-known and most talked-about destinations.
Inasmuch as the likes of Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican Republic, just to mention a few, come in mind when we usually think about visiting the Caribbean, there’re also other lesser known-spots with equally pristine beaches and remarkable landscapes that also offer tons of activities and unforgettable adventure.
To shine some light on these beautiful places, Lonely Planet has compiled a list of five islands they say are the Caribbean’s best kept secret. According to the popular travel guide platform, these ideal destinations are equally rich in culture and also have breathtaking views as well as stunning beaches.
Join Face2Face Africa as we highlight these destinations. And please do well to observe all COVID-19 safety protocols anytime you visit so as not to endanger your life and that of others.
Anguilla
The Eastern Caribbean nation of Anguilla has 33 beaches with some of its popular locations including Little Bay, Shoal Bay East and Meads Bay. Vacationing on the beautiful island, however, comes at a cost, according to Lonely Planet. So they recommend you visit outside the peak season if you’re looking at saving up some cash.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, the twin-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis are famous for their beautiful beaches, mountainous landscapes and tropical rainforest. The two islands were formed as a result of volcanic activity.
Curaçao
Curaçao pronounced ‘cure-ah-souw’ is a colourful island in the Caribbean and it is the C of the ABC islands of which Aruba is the A and Bonaire is the B. These islands and few others are outside the hurricane belt.
The last minor hurricane to hit the island was Felix in 2007 and it experiences hurricanes once in every 28.8 years. However, the last major hurricane to hit the island was well over 60 years ago. Aside being a hurricane-free island, the Dutch Caribbean island is not your average Caribbean island. There are whole lots of reasons why your next vacation should be in Curaçao.
Unlike other Caribbean islands, the people of Curaçao bear European passports and the Island’s main source of income isn’t from tourism but rather ship repairs. When it comes to fine dining and street foods, Curaçao’s cuisine caters to everybody and you don’t have to break bank to live it up on the island. The island is also every divers’ paradise and snorkellers will also enjoy the place just as much. The Blue Room, which is a hidden cave, is one of its famous snorkeling spots.
So just in case you’re looking for an unorthodox place that would still offer you an unforgettable experience, you should most definitely be looking at Curaçao.
Guadeloupe
Known for its mountainous landscapes, breathtaking waterfalls and beaches, Guadeloupe is an archipelago comprising more than twelve islands. Some popular spots worth visiting – besides its beaches – include the Parc National de la Guadeloupe (the only national park in the country) as well as the La Soufrière volcano.
Martinique
The mountainous country is gifted with several natural wonders, making it the perfect spot for ecotourism lovers. Some popular spots include the Route de la Trace trail, the Grande Anse des Salines beach, Le Fromager and Le Vieux Foyal, just to mention a few.
