Caribbean Breeze: Miami to
Antigua

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.

Bimini Island

Bimini is a beautiful island located in the Bahamas, an archipelago country in the Caribbean. Situated just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, it is one of the closest Bahamian islands to the United States. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life, Bimini is a paradise for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Bimini consists of two main islands - North Bimini and South Bimini - and is surrounded by a number of smaller cays. North Bimini is the more developed and populated of the two, with most of the island's tourist amenities and accommodations. South Bimini, on the other hand, is more secluded and offers a more laid-back atmosphere.

One of the main attractions of Bimini is its incredible underwater world. The island is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with numerous reefs and shipwrecks to explore. The most famous dive site is the SS Sapona, a concrete-hulled shipwreck from the 1920s that is now home to an array of colorful marine life.

Fishing enthusiasts will also find Bimini to be a dream destination. Known as the "Bonefishing Capital of the World," the island offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing, especially for bonefish. The warm and shallow waters surrounding Bimini are teeming with these elusive fish, making it a prime spot for anglers.

Aside from its natural wonders, Bimini also has a rich history and cultural heritage. Ernest Hemingway once called the island his home, and his legacy can still be felt at various spots around Bimini. The Bimini Museum is a great place to learn more about the island's history, including its connections to rum-running during the Prohibition era.

When it comes to dining, Bimini offers a range of options to satisfy every palate. From fresh seafood shacks by the beach to upscale restaurants serving international cuisine, visitors can find a variety of delicious meals to suit their taste buds. Don't miss the opportunity to try some local Bahamian dishes, such as conch fritters and cracked conch.

Accommodations in Bimini range from luxury resorts to cozy beachside cottages, providing something for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly resort, or a budget-friendly option, you'll find suitable choices on the island. Many accommodations also offer amenities such as private beaches, swimming pools, and water sports facilities.

Getting to Bimini is relatively easy, with several options available. The most convenient way is to take a short flight from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, which takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, there are ferry services that operate from Florida to Bimini, taking approximately two hours.

In conclusion, Bimini is a slice of paradise in the Bahamas, offering stunning natural beauty, thrilling water activities, rich history, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to relax on its pristine beaches, explore its underwater wonders, or immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, Bimini has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable tropical getaway in Bimini!

Nassau

Known for its warm breezes, sunny skies, and white beaches,
Nassau's turbulent past is quite different from the serenity its
imagery brings to mind. The capital of the Bahamas and the largest
city, part of Nassau's allure comes from its notorious inhabitants
of old. Once a lair and refuge for pirates, Nassau was home to
famous plunderers such as Blackbeard. However, by 1720 most of the
pirates were ultimately killed or driven out by the British. In the
following years, Nassau would burn to the ground three times at the
hands of the Spanish.

Today, the island's close proximity to the US gives Nassau a
distinctly American flavour. This bustling hub of a city is a
delightful and colourful blend of old world and colonial
architecture juxtaposed with a busy, modern port.

Nassau draws attracts visitors with its beautifully preserved
Victorian buildings, 18th-century fortresses, and the Queen's
Staircase, the 66 steps of which lead to the most breathtaking view
over the whole of Nassau.

Plant enthusiasts should visit the Royal Victorian Garden, which
has more than 300 species of tropical plants and exotic creatures.
Enthusiastic shoppers, on the other hand, would be well advised to
look out for great bargains at the Straw Market on Bay Street.

Alternatively, visitors can relax by spending an idle afternoon
watching a cricket game at one of the many local sports grounds.
After dark, Nassau comes alive with a rowdy bar and club scene, and
the scent of fresh seafood permeates the air in the Fish Fry
district.

This stunning city can also add at least four famous supporting
roles in the movies to its resume, as the setting in three James
Bond pictures, as well as the Beatles film 'Help!'. With the bright
lights of casinos, upmarket resort hotels, and cruise liners,
Nassau is overflowing with variety, colour and entertainment. A
favourite holiday destination for active adventurers and beach bums
alike, Nassau has something to offer everyone.

San Salvador Island

Grand Turk Island

Charming Cockburn Town, capital of the
Turks and Caicos Islands, is the centrepiece of the little
bean-shaped island of Grand Turk. The laid-back capital, with
donkeys and horses casually wandering the streets, sports a
collection of quaint inns, boutiques and colourful colonial
houses.

This 400-year-old town boasts an
interesting cultural history museum recording its discovery and
development. Also in the museum are mementos associated with
astronaut John Glenn, first American to orbit the earth, who spent
time on Grand Turk after his space capsule splashed down offshore.
Cockburn is also a busy financial centre, acting as a tax haven for
offshore investors.

Whether visiting for business or pleasure,
few of those who stay on Grand Turk can resist the call of the
crystal clear sea on their doorsteps. The island's quiet beaches
give on to magnificent coral reefs offering some of the world's
best wall diving opportunities, particularly on the western shore.
Other activities enjoyed on Grand Turk include bird watching,
beachcombing, horseback riding, whale watching, hiking or
excursions to surrounding islands or cays.

San Juan (Puerto Rico)

The capital city of Puerto Rico, San Juan
is one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean and home to a third of
all Puerto Ricans. Nearly every visitor to the island arrives at
San Juan, many on cruise liners. It's one of the largest home-based
cruise ports in the world, hosting many vessels with more being
added each year.

San Juan is divided into three distinct
districts: Old San Juan, the historic walled city; the beach and
resort area; and the outlying suburbs. Tourists mainly visit Old
San Juan, the site of most restaurants, shops, entertainment venues
and some exquisite beaches.

The old city is linked to the new by the
largely residential barrio of Puerta de Tierra and a series of
modern highways leading to the Condado beachfront, which is
reminiscent of Florida's Miami Beach with its high-rise hotels and
apartment blocks.

It is not only tourism that keeps the
financial mills grinding in San Juan. The city is an important
centre for petroleum and sugar refining, brewing and distilling,
and the manufacturing of cement, pharmaceuticals, metal products
and tobacco products.

In the midst of all the hustle and bustle,
there are numerous attractions in San Juan to amuse, entertain and
interest many tourists, and the city is a perfect base for
exploring the rest of what this small Caribbean island has to
offer.

Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda, the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), is a stunning tropical paradise that offers visitors an enticing combination of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure. The island spans approximately 8.5 square miles and has a population of around 4,000 inhabitants, creating a friendly and laid-back atmosphere that makes tourists feel welcome. It is accessible by ferry, private boat, or a small airport that caters to chartered flights.

Geographically, Virgin Gorda is known for its remarkably diverse landscapes, ranging from the white sandy beaches to the rugged mountains, leaving nature enthusiasts and beachgoers equally enchanted. The island's name, which translates to "Fat Virgin," was coined by Christopher Columbus in 1493, allegedly because the island’s profile on the horizon resembles a plump woman lying on her side.

The jewel in Virgin Gorda's crown is "The Baths," a geological wonder consisting of gigantic granite boulders that form scenic grottoes and pools on the island’s southwest shore. These natural formations are believed to be the result of volcanic activity, and their incredible shapes are filled with sea water and coral sand beaches. The Baths is a national park and offers a unique experience for snorkeling, exploring through the caves, and swimming in the natural tidal pools. It's a must-visit location that attracts people from around the world for its sheer beauty and tranquil turquoise waters.

Virgin Gorda also features some of the most luxurious resorts, villas, and restaurants in the Caribbean. Its exclusive North Sound is a well-known hideaway for yachts and offers several marinas and high-end accommodations. Here, visitors can take part in sailing, fishing, and water sports in one of the BVI's most sheltered harbors. Wellness-focused travelers can also indulge in spa services that incorporate the serenity and resources of the tropical environment.

The island’s economy thrives on tourism, but there is a sense of unspoiled charm as development is kept to ecologically sensitive levels. The community is dedicated to preserving the outstanding beauty of their environment, resulting in careful management of tourism activities.

For those looking to take a step back from water-based activities, Virgin Gorda does not disappoint. The island's hilly terrain is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to the highest point, Gorda Peak, which stands at 1,370 feet. The Gorda Peak National Park provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and cays, and on a clear day, even the distant Anegada can be seen. The mountain is also home to unique flora and fauna, such as the Virgin Gorda gecko, found nowhere else in the world.

Visitors to Virgin Gorda will savor the local cuisine, which is a blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences. Seafood is, unsurprisingly, a staple, and you’ll find it prepared in myriad delicious ways, from grilled lobster to conch fritters, often served with the island's staple side dishes like rice and peas.

Yet, what truly endears visitors to Virgin Gorda is the warmth of its people. From luxury resort staff to the vendors selling crafts at the local markets, everyone seems to have a story to share about the island. The cultural events and festivals, particularly during the Easter Festival, provide a lively display of local music, dance, and traditions.

In conclusion, Virgin Gorda is a small slice of heaven offering an authentic Caribbean experience. It's a place where luxury meshes with the simplicity of island life, where natural beauty is preserved, and where every traveler finds a tranquil escape. Whether it's for a honeymoon, family vacation, or a solo retreat, this island epitomizes the Caribbean's allure.

Norman Island

Norman Island is a well-known destination for cruisers and other tourists because of three water-level caves at the base of cliffs just outside the western edge of the Bight. The caves are ideal for snorkeling, and, if one goes deeply enough into the cliffs, darkness makes the experience like a night dive.

The island has no permanent inhabitants (other than wild goats), but there are two restaurants on the island, Pirates Bight and The Club.

Anguilla

Tranquility reigns supreme on the Caribbean island of Anguilla, where unspoilt beaches lie between discreet resorts and the crystal-clear sea. Small and covered in scrubby vegetation, the main island is surrounded by a collection of low islets and coral cays.

This British Overseas Territory boasts over 30 amazing beaches that many rate as the best in the world, and most certainly in the Caribbean. Each is special in its own way, from Shoal Bay East with its mile of soft sand, to the serene Little Harbor and the seclusion of Captain's Bay, which is only reachable by a narrow gravel track.

Some of the most popular beaches include Cove Bay, which offers waterside horseback rides and weekend barbecues with live bands; and Maundays Bay, home to some of Anguilla's premier resort hotels. The beaches, together with a set of stylish villas, resort hotels, and delicious cuisine served up in a large number of top-class restaurants, have made Anguilla a favourite hideaway for celebrities, particularly movie stars, as witnessed by the private jets often parked on the airport runway.

Anguilla is the perfect retreat for an indulgent, exclusive getaway for the discerning traveller dedicated to the simple pleasures of basking in the sun, taking sunset strolls, sailing on the azure waters, and snorkelling in the world-class coral reefs. It is also a popular venue for weddings and honeymoons.

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.