8-Day Exploring The Isles
Of The Lesser Antilles

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is the provincial capital of Nova
Scotia, and serves as the centre of commerce for Atlantic Canada.
It sits on one of the largest natural harbours in the world and has
long been an important maritime centre.

Founded in 1749 by the British who sought
to strengthen their presence in the North Atlantic, the city
retains its British military air. Many historic stone and wood
buildings have been preserved, particularly in the restored
waterfront area, which has become a major tourist attraction. The
metro offers shopping, exciting nightlife, eclectic restaurants and
a diversity of entertainment, and it boasts North America's oldest
yacht club, Northwest Arm.

Halifax is also the cultural hub of Nova
Scotia and the Atlantic provinces as a whole. It has a number of
art galleries, museums, theatres and other charming cultural
attractions. It's also home to the Nova Scotia Symphony, and also
hosts many cultural festivals such as the Nova Scotia International
Tattoo, Shakespeare by the Sea, the Halifax International Busker
Festival and the Atlantic Film Festival.

Visitors can find out more about the city's
culture from reading The Coast, its free alternative arts weekly
magazine which can be found online. The city also offers a range of
lovely recreational sites, such as parks, beaches, walking trails
and some living-history experiences such as the firing of the noon
day gun at the Halifax Citadel and the working locks of the
Shubenacadie Canal.

Halifax offers visitors a fascinating
glimpse into life in Canada's Atlantic provinces, and there's so
much to see and do here that tourists will hardly ever experience a
dull moment.

South Friars Bay

South Friar's Bay is a bay in Saint George Basseterre Parish, Saint Kitts and Nevis. It is one of the two bays that stretch along the coast of the isthmus connecting the Southeast Peninsula, with the rest of the island of Saint Kitts. It is longer than its northern neighbour (North Friar's Bay). At their closest, the two coasts are less than one kilometre apart.

Montserrat

Montserrat, often referred to as "The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean," is a British Overseas Territory located in the Leeward Islands, in the Caribbean Sea. It is a small island with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a deep-rooted history that makes it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.

One of the most distinctive features of Montserrat is its dormant volcano, Soufrière Hills. Although the volcano erupted in 1995 and caused significant damage to the island, it has since become a major attraction for visitors. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory offers tours and educational programs, providing an opportunity to learn about the volcano's impact on the island and witness the awe-inspiring landscape it created.

Beyond its volcanic terrain, Montserrat boasts breathtaking natural scenery that spans from lush rainforests to idyllic beaches. The island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and snorkeling or diving in its crystal-clear waters. You can explore trails like the Oriole Walkway, which takes you through the rainforest and offers a chance to spot the Montserrat Oriole, a rare bird species endemic to the island.

For history buffs, Montserrat has a fascinating past intertwined with its indigenous inhabitants, African slaves, and European colonizers. The Montserrat National Trust Visitor Centre in Salem provides insights into the island's history, culture, and traditions. You can also discover the remnants of the island's colonial heritage in Plymouth, the former capital now buried beneath volcanic ash and accessible only on guided tours.

The cultural vibrancy of Montserrat is palpable as you immerse yourself in its music, art, and festivals. The island is hailed as the birthplace of modern calypso music, and the Montserrat Cultural Centre in Little Bay hosts various cultural events, including music festivals and art exhibitions. One of the most notable celebrations is the annual St. Patrick's Festival, which showcases Montserrat's Irish heritage and features lively parades, traditional music, and dance performances.

While Montserrat offers a relaxing and serene atmosphere, it is also dotted with charming local establishments where you can savor delicious Caribbean cuisine. From roadside food stands offering mouthwatering jerk chicken to waterfront restaurants with panoramic ocean views, the island's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences.

When it comes to accommodations, Montserrat offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. You can choose from cozy guesthouses, boutique hotels, and luxury villas scattered around the island. Many of these accommodations provide stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and Soufrière Hills, ensuring a memorable stay in paradise.

In conclusion, Montserrat is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Whether you are seeking adventure in the great outdoors, a glimpse into the island's volcanic past, or an immersive cultural experience, Montserrat has something to offer. So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore this enchanting island that will leave you spellbound with its charm and beauty.

Rodney Bay

Rodney Bay in St Lucia is horseshoe-shaped and features one of the islands premier beaches with white sand and clear water. It is also known as St.Lucia’s entertainment and recreation centre.

Bridgetown

Bridgetown originally called 'Indian Bridge' is the capital and commercial centre of Barbados with about 80 000 inhabitants. It is a busy port with a natural harbour inlet known as the Careenage and is well utilised by pleasure craft and fishing boats.Bridgetown has a long and colourful history as a British settlement from the 17th century. A bustling city with many attractions for travellers its mix of modern and historic buildings are interspersed with markets monuments and a number of lush gardens.The main street Broad Street is where one finds banks department stores and duty-free shops. At the top of Broad Street is the Parliament Building (the Barbados Parliament is the third oldest in the Commonwealth dating from 1639) facing National Heroes Square. Bridgetown is home to a number of historical buildings that will interest visitors including the Garrison Historic Area which is a must-visit for military history buffs.Another attraction in Bridgetown is a massive Baobab tree (said to have been brought to the island from Guinea Africa around 1738). It takes 15 adults with outstretched arms to encircle the trunk.Tourists in Bridgetown will find much to see and do: cricket games at Kensington Oval which hosted the 2007 Cricket World Cup; the Barbados Derby at the racetrack in the Garrison area; and many other events and activities. A range of duty-free shops near the harbour sell staples like Mount Gay Rum while more colourful shopping options include the Cheapside Market and the Swan Street pedestrian mall. Local restaurants in the Careenage serve up fresh lobster and fish with Caribbean flair.