Collector's Caribbean

Miami, Florida

The party and cruise capital of the word, Miami is a bright,
brash, playground city that 15.5 million tourists flock to every
year. The Roaring Twenties saw this town bloom into a seaside
capital, blessed with a legacy of Art Deco architecture, diverse
cultures, and natural wonders enough to satisfy any
holiday-goer.

Being the gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America, Miami has
a large Cuban presence, evident in the vibrant neighbourhood of
. Art lovers can meander around the art districts like
Wynwood and the Coconut Grove, while others can lounge on the miles
of sandy beaches. For families there are kid-friendly attractions
like the
and Metrozoo. The nightlife is sophisticated and
varied. The city also gives easy access to Florida's popular Gold
Coast resorts and attractions, as well as the natural wonder of the

.

It is no wonder Miami is America's favourite holiday destination
and the hub of a vibrant cruise ship industry, its port constantly
jammed with sleek passenger liners. North of the city, the miles of
beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast are hemmed in by southeast
Florida's major tourist towns: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano
Beach, and Palm Beach.

Charlotte Amalie

St Thomas is the second largest and most
sophisticated of the Virgin Islands, serving as an extremely
popular port for cruise ships. There's a strong Danish influence,
especially evident in the main town and capital of Charlotte
Amalie.

Being the most accessible of the islands
also means it's the most heavily developed, with visitors from
around the world attracted by the town's reputation as an
international shopping and cruise hub.

But it's also beautiful, with numerous
headlands, coves, and forested hills providing stunning vistas over
the Caribbean. St Thomas also has some of the best white-sand
beaches in the region: Magens Bay Beach is acclaimed as one of the
finest in the world, and the sparkling waters and coral reef of
Coki Bay are superb for snorkelling. Fabulous panoramas can be
viewed from Drake's Seat, a high point in the centre of the island
from where Sir Francis Drake used to watch for enemy ships.

Combining natural beauty with first-rate
amenities, St Thomas offers numerous activities on and off the
water, fine international cuisine and a variety of accommodation
including luxury hotels and villas.

Gustavia

The beautiful beaches of St Barthelemy have captivated visitors from around the world for centuries. With its stunning white sand, crystal clear waters and lush tropical scenery, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this charming island paradise. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, romantic getaway or a place to party the night away, St Barthelemy has something for everyone.

Begin your beach vacation with a visit to Grand Cul-de-Sac, an area made up of stunning beaches that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure with snorkeling and jet skiing or just a place to relax with beautiful views and a gentle breeze, Grand Cul-de-Sac is sure to please. Take time to lounge on the beach with your feet in the sand and unwind with the sound of the waves crashing nearby.

Continue down the shoreline and experience the serenity of Anse du Gouverneur Beach. Here, you’ll have plenty of room to soak up the sun and lounge on the sand. Enjoy a nice picnic lunch by the sea and be sure to watch for dolphins swimming in the distance. Bring along your snorkeling gear if you’d like to explore the vibrant underwater world before continuing on your adventure.

For those who are looking for a bit of adventure and fun, head to Grand Fond Beach. Here, the surf is perfect for bodyboarding and surfing and there’s plenty of room to take part in beach games. After a long day at the beach, take a dip in the ocean and enjoy the cool water.

After a full day exploring St Barthelemy’s stunning beaches, be sure to check out the local culture and cuisine. The restaurants here offer a range of delicious dishes from international flavors to traditional Caribbean fare. Spend the evening exploring the area’s vibrant nightlife and enjoy some drinks with friends.

No matter what type of beach vacation you’re looking for, St Barthelemy will provide an unforgettable experience. From stunning views to exciting activities, this Caribbean paradise has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime to St Barthelemy’s stunning beaches!

Saint John's

St. John’s is the vibrant capital of Antigua and Barbuda, and one of the most alluring cities in the Caribbean. Situated on the island of Antigua, St. John’s is a bustling city that is both exciting and picturesque. From the Caribbean-infused cuisine, to the historical landmarks and lively attractions, St. John’s is a place that should be at the top of your travel itinerary.

The city is alive with activity, including plenty of colorful markets and shopping areas, and is known for its diverse population. As you explore, you’ll find yourself surrounded by music, art and culture. Strolling through St. John's Old Town will give you a delightful glimpse into the past, as local craftsmen display their wares in British colonial-style buildings. From there, head to the lively Independence Square and take in the sights and sounds.

Catch a glimpse of local wildlife at the nearby Antigua Recreation Ground, or head to deep sea fishing for fun and adventure. St. John’s also plays host to a few annual festivals, like the April Carnival which features a mix of costume parades, stilt walkers, drum circles, floats and masquerade performers.

For those looking to relax in the sun, the city’s numerous beaches are ideal. The pristine sand and crystal-clear waters make them a prime destination for swimming, snorkeling, and more. If you’re looking for a peaceful time with friends and family, why not have a picnic on an isolated beach? Or try an island tour and explore the waters on a guided boat cruise.

With its combination of sun-soaked beaches, expansive parks and traditional buildings, St. John’s is a place that everyone can enjoy. Its friendly locals will welcome you with open arms, and its diverse selection of restaurants will satisfy any taste buds. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, St. John’s has it all waiting for you in Antigua.

Fort-de-France

The largest of the Windward Islands, Martinique is 4,261 mi (6,817 km) from Paris, but its spirit and language are decidedly French, with more than a soupçon of West Indian spice. Tangible, edible evidence of the fact is the island's cuisine, a superb blend of French and creole. Martinique is lushly landscaped with tropical flowers. Trees bend under the weight of fruits such as mangoes, papayas, lemons, limes, and bright-red West Indian cherries. Acres of banana plantations, pineapple fields, and waving sugarcane stretch to the horizon. The towering mountains and verdant rain forest in the north lure hikers, while underwater sights and sunken treasures attract snorkelers and scuba divers. Martinique is also wonderful if your idea of exercise is turning over every 10 minutes to get an even tan and your taste in adventure runs to duty-free shopping. A popular cruise-ship excursion goes to St-Pierre, which was buried by ash when Mont Pelée erupted in 1902.

Basseterre, Saint Kitts

Basseterre is the capital city of Saint Kitts and Nevis, in the West Indies. It is also the main port and commercial center for the island nation. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the early days of European colonization.

The city was named by the French after Christopher Columbus, who stopped here on his second voyage to the New World in 1493. The city was then known as Basseterre de Guadeloupe, or Basseterre of Guadeloupe. It was one of the first European settlements in the Caribbean and quickly became an important trading port.

In the 17th century, the British took control of the island and renamed it Basseterre. The city remained an important port and commercial center under British rule.

Today, Basseterre is a busy and vibrant city with a population of around 13,000. It is a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and lively nightlife.

Philipsburg

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It's generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander's home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

Tortola

Tortola is the largest and most populated island in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a beautiful group of islands located in the Caribbean Sea. With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and lush green hills, Tortola is a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

One of the main draws of Tortola is its spectacular beaches. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, swim in the warm waters, or try your hand at water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, Tortola has a beach for everyone. Some of the most popular beaches include Cane Garden Bay, Smuggler's Cove, and Brewer's Bay. These beaches offer calm waters, palm-fringed shores, and a relaxed atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of a Caribbean getaway.

Beyond its beaches, Tortola also boasts a diverse and vibrant culture. The island's capital, Road Town, offers a charming mix of British colonial architecture and Caribbean charm. Here, you'll find colorful buildings, bustling markets, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars that cater to both locals and tourists alike. The combination of local cuisine and international flavors creates a culinary experience that is truly unique to Tortola.

For those interested in history and culture, Tortola has a rich heritage to explore. The Virgin Islands Folk Museum in Road Town provides an insight into the island's history, culture, and traditions. The 18th-century Callwood Rum Distillery and the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum offer a glimpse into Tortola's colonial past and the island's once-thriving sugar industry.

Nature enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy on Tortola. Sage Mountain National Park, located at the highest point on the island, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and lush rainforest trails to explore. The park is home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna, including the rare Virgin Islands dwarf gecko. Smaller islands like Norman Island and Jost Van Dyke are great destinations for day trips, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and hiking.

Tortola's warm and welcoming atmosphere extends beyond its natural beauty and cultural offerings. The locals, known as "Belongers," are friendly and hospitable, ensuring that visitors feel welcome and at home during their stay. The island's laid-back vibe and slower pace of life make Tortola the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in a tranquil and serene environment.

In terms of accommodation, Tortola offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Luxurious resorts, cozy guesthouses, and self-catering villas can all be found on the island, providing ample choices for travelers.

Getting to Tortola is relatively easy. The Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport serves as the main gateway, with flights from various international destinations. Alternatively, travelers can also reach Tortola by ferry from neighboring islands such as St. Thomas or St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In conclusion, Tortola is a tropical paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. With its stunning beaches, vibrant local culture, and abundance of outdoor activities, Tortola is an idyllic destination for those in search of a memorable and rejuvenating vacation.

Miami, Florida

The party and cruise capital of the word, Miami is a bright,
brash, playground city that 15.5 million tourists flock to every
year. The Roaring Twenties saw this town bloom into a seaside
capital, blessed with a legacy of Art Deco architecture, diverse
cultures, and natural wonders enough to satisfy any
holiday-goer.

Being the gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America, Miami has
a large Cuban presence, evident in the vibrant neighbourhood of
. Art lovers can meander around the art districts like
Wynwood and the Coconut Grove, while others can lounge on the miles
of sandy beaches. For families there are kid-friendly attractions
like the
and Metrozoo. The nightlife is sophisticated and
varied. The city also gives easy access to Florida's popular Gold
Coast resorts and attractions, as well as the natural wonder of the

.

It is no wonder Miami is America's favourite holiday destination
and the hub of a vibrant cruise ship industry, its port constantly
jammed with sleek passenger liners. North of the city, the miles of
beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast are hemmed in by southeast
Florida's major tourist towns: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano
Beach, and Palm Beach.