8 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2019

For reasons pertaining to health, religion or lifestyle prefSweeping vistas of blue seas, white sand and endless cocktails are what a dream vacation in the Caribbean islands is made of. The Caribbean sea off the Gulf of Mexico in North America is a series of islands whose beauty is hard to capture in a narrative. With so many places to choose from in the majestic Caribbean, we're counting down the top 9 places that you cannot afford to miss. If you wish to cover multiple Carribean destinations in one visit, consider a Caribbean Cruise or go island hopping on your own time. Here are our top recommendations.

1.Dominica

Dominica is the lesser-known paradise for thrill seekers who love diving and hiking. If you love diving, the champagne reef will enamour you. But if you are a hiker the diverse beauty of Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site spread across 17,000 acres will give you your money’s worth. Set in the mountainous interior of Dominica, the park is a rainforest full of giant ferns, wild orchids and beautiful waterfalls. The main attractions of the park (nearly all of which need to be hiked to) include Middleham Falls, Victoria Waterfall; Trafalgar Falls, Boiling Lake, Boeri Lake, Titou Gorge, Emerald Pool, and the Valley of Desolation (famous for steaming mud pools). Divers can try their hand at scuba diving and snorkelling in the Boiling Lake.

2.Cayman Islands

Sail along the Seven Mile Beach towards Stingray City to experience the wildlife and shallow waters that are home to beautiful prehistoric-looking creatures. Although the beach measures only 5.5 miles now, it still lures visitors from around the world with its crystal-clear water and coral sands. The Cayman Islands are also the top Caribbean destination for scuba divers who love to explore the colourful sea life around Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef and Eden Rock & Devil's Grotto, and even the Bloody Bay Marine Park in Little Cayman.

3. Bahamas

With amenities such as dive shops, restaurants, pubs and boutiques, the Bahamas are like a fun cheat sheet at your fingertips. If you're travelling in late December or early January, you can experience the celebrations of their national festival, Junkanoo. However, if beaches are more your thing, you can escape the mass tourism of Freeport or Nassau and visit Eleuthera Island or its little sister the pretty Harbour Island, both of which offer pink sand beaches unlike anywhere in the world. If you are in for a quirky experience, do not miss the pig beach in Exuma. Secluded beaches rimmed with vibrant coral colonies, makes the Bahamas the ideal Caribbean destination for beach bums.

4.Jamaica

Rafting through a picturesque stretch of The Martha Brae River is a great way to soak up some of the tropical scenery that Jamaica has to offer. The Dunn river falls are another attraction that you cannot miss even if it can get a little crowded. If seclusion is your thing then head out to Frenchman’s Cove or Winnifred Beach, both of which are framed by lush greenery. If you'd like to explore the history and wildlife attractions, pay a visit to the Cockpit Country. And while you are at it, don’t miss the Bob Marley Museum.

5.Aruba

Aruba’s weather is less humid than a majority of the other Caribbean islands, making it the preferred destination for those seeking pleasant weather with the sun and surf. Aruba also boasts of beautiful resorts, casinos and gorgeous beaches. Arikok National Park, Baby Beach, SS Antilla Shipwreck, Fort Zoutman and California Lighthouse are some of the popular attractions of Aruba. You can also take a look at "Conchi" Natural Pool, which is the hidden gem of National Park Arikok. Make sure you enjoy the nightlife this place offers by travelling on the Kukoo Kunuku Party Bus. And don’t forget to visit the Flamingo beach and chill with its pink inhabitants.

6.Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is full of quaint towns, sleepy villages, stunning islands, enigmatic caves, and a rugged mountainous interior. The capital city of San Juan presents an eclectic mix of Spanish Caribbean and American cultures with colonial buildings and cute cafes. Go spelunking in the Rio Camuy Caves of San Juan or enjoy the full moon zip lining in Mucaro and fly over treetops in the still of the night. You can also go diving in Las Cuevas of Desecheo and witness the undersea canyons, caves and arches. There is something for every kind of traveller in Puerto Rico.

7.Cuba

Cuba abounds in natural beauty - from dazzling beaches to the lush countryside. The old world charm of its cities where vintage cars still cruise the streets lined with colonial-era buildings, evoke a nostalgia for days gone by. The turbulent history and captivating culture add to the mystique of this country. Whether it's dancing on the streets of Callejon de Hamel or taking in the historical essence of preserved old palaces in Trinidad, Cuba has something for everyone. Soak up some glorious sunshine at Playa Ancon or sip on mojitos in the evening at Casilda Bay to unwind.

8.St. Lucia

Among St. Lucia’s many attractions are pristine beaches, fishing villages, dense rainforests, dazzling reefs, cascading waterfalls, geothermal pools, and lush mountains. With the twin volcanic peaks of the Pitons tower in the background, you can explore this beautiful island or laze on the golden sand beaches all day. Spend your day sightseeing at Pigeon Island National Park or escape to Ladera Resort, perched on a volcanic ridge 1,000 feet above the sea. To relax, take a walk along Marigot Beach, which is fringed with mangroves and surrounded by lush, steep hills. You can also shop to your heart's content at the Castries Flea Market to pack a diverse potpourri of food.

A holiday at these exotic places requires zero disturbance but lots of planning. So make sure you take care of the finer things by investing in travel insurance plans! The Caribbean is for you to explore!