Caribbean Overview
By Lynne Christen
Picture a Caribbean island getaway where sunlight glitters like diamonds across crystal-clear turquoise waters. Imagine sipping a tall cool rum punch under a colorful umbrella on white sand palm-fringed beaches caressed by the soothing sounds of steel drums and waves lapping the shoreline or snorkeling colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Far from the doldrums of the daily world, far from the chill of winter winds, it must be paradise. Once the playground of swashbuckling pirates and treasure-seekers, the Caribbean is comprised of more than 7,000 islands, islets and cays. Pick a favorite or several favorite islands and stay awhile. Aruba extends a warm “bonbini” (welcome) and Dutch heritage is obvious in Oranjestad’s colorful architecture. Jamaica is all about hedonistic resorts and reggae-infused nightlife. Mother Nature has been especially kind to St. Lucia with dramatic volcanic peaks carpeted with lush foliage and rainforests awash with wild orchids. Get two diverse island experiences on one island in St. Maarten/St. Martin. And, step back in time in Puerto Rico, the most historic port in the Caribbean. Go!
