Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
S P E C I A L I S T
Caribbean
including the Atlantic
Part 1
Introduction and the Atlantic
Bermuda, Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos Islands
Northern Caribbean
Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic,
Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and British Virgin Islands
Sponsored by
AmericanAirlines
Something special in the air.
TM
and
The Travel Institute Fund
Front Cover
Beach scene, photo St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourist Office
Diving in the waters off St. Lucia, photo St. Lucia Tourist Board
The Travel Institute is not responsible for the results of actions taken
on the basis of opinions, recommendations, or advice offered in this
book. All rates are published for illustrative purposes only. The Travel
Institute is not responsible for the accuracy of rates or descriptions of
the properties and services of suppliers reproduced in this book.
Board of Trustees of The Travel Institute, 2000, 2003, 2004
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of The Travel Institute.
Robert H. Troni
Managing Director International Sales and Marketing
Caribbean and Latin America
Contents
Preface
vii
Contents of Part 2
Alphabetical Destinations
xi
Introduction
Eastern Caribbean
The Leeward Islands
Anguilla
St-Martin/Sint Maarten
St-Barthlemy
(St. Barts)
Saba
St. Eustatius (Statia)
St. Kitts and Nevis
Antigua and Barbuda
Montserrat
10
Local Transportation
15
Accommodations
17
Practical Information
20
27
40
41
42
44
55
56
The Atlantic
63
Bermuda
65
Bahamas
77
95
Northern Caribbean
103
Cayman Islands
105
Jamaica
115
Haiti
129
Dominican Republic
139
Puerto Rico
151
1
3
11
21
29
37
45
57
67
Eastern CaribbeanThe
Windward Islands
73
Guadeloupe
75
Dominica
87
Martinique
99
St. Lucia
109
Barbados
121
St. Vincent and the
Grenadines
131
Grenada
141
Contents of Part 3
Southern Caribbean
Trinidad and Tobago
The ABC Islands
Aruba
Bonaire
Curaao
1
3
15
19
27
35
Western Caribbean
and the Coast
of Latin America
43
Cuba
45
Mexico (Yucatn)
49
Central America
55
Belize
55
HondurasThe Bay
Islands
60
continued on next page
Contents
Part 3 continued
PanamaThe San Blas
Islands
62
South America
65
Colombia
65
Venezuela
67
Guyana
70
Suriname
73
Index
vi
167
179
77
Preface
Course Organization
Course Booklets
The course booklets are your guides to the Caribbean. There is an
extensive introduction to the Caribbean. The destinations featured in
the course and Study Guide are presented geographically for ease of
learning. Most destinations offer the following information:
Map, Profile, and Fast Facts
Historical Background
Cruise Call
Local Transportation
Island Secrets
Study Guide
The Study Guide includes useful information about how to study
Destination Specialist Caribbean and how to prepare for the test. Map
skills and study questions are also included to help you in the learning
process. The Destination Specialist Caribbean Test Request Form can
be found near the end of the Study Guide, or you can request the test
online at www.thetravelinstitute.com/testreq.htm.
Job Aid
A laminated desktop quick-reference Job Aid puts sales-related
information at your fingertips. It is designed to enhance your selling
potential and includes a map of the Caribbean and highlights of each
destination.
Preface
vii
North America
Alaska
East Asia
European Culture and Heritage
France
Hawaii
South Pacific
Spain
St. Lucia
Mexico
For more information about The Travel Institutes programs visit our
Web site at www.thetravelinstitute.com.
Acknowledgements
The Travel Institute would like to thank Bruno Ociepka, CTC, for
researching and writing the materials for this course. He has extensive
retail travel agency, and travel and tourism teaching experience. He has
traveled to more than half the destinations covered in this course.
Bruno co-authored The Travel Institutes Travel Career Development
textbook, sixth edition, and wrote Destination Specialist North
America. He also wrote the following: Bahamas Tourism Institutes
The Islands of the Bahamas Self-Study Guide, the Tourist Office of
Spains Spain Specialist Program, and British Tourist Authoritys Brit
Agent Program.
Thanks are also extended to Carolyn Viles, CTC, at The Travel
Institute, project manager for the development of this course. The
Travel Institute would also like to acknowledge Linda McLatchie for
her thorough copy editing and Sybil Norwood for her graphic design
prowess.
viii
Preface
ix
Alphabetical
Destinations
T
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
1,
1,
1,
2,
2,
3,
83
86
182
3
57
19
Bahamas, The
Barbados
Barbuda
Bay Islands, The
Belize
Bequia
Bermuda
Berry Islands
Bimini Islands
Bonaire
British Virgin Islands
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
1,
2,
2,
3,
3,
2,
1,
1,
1,
3,
1,
77
121
57
60
55
135
65
87
86
27
179
Caicos Islands
Cancn
Canouan
Caracas
Carriacou
Cartagena
Cat Island
Cayman Islands
Cozumel
Cuba
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
1,
3,
2,
3,
2,
3,
1,
1,
3,
3,
95
49
135
67
145
65
87
105
51
45
Alphabetical Destinations
xi
xii
Curaao
Part 3, 35
Dominica
Dominican Republic (Dominicana)
Part 2, 87
Part 1, 139
Elbow Cay
Eleuthera
Exumas, The
Part 1, 84
Part 1, 84
Part 1, 85
Freeport
Part 1, 80
Georgetown, Guyana
Grand Bahama Island
Green Turtle Cay
Grenada
Grenadines
Guadeloupe
Guyana
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
3,
1,
1,
2,
2,
2,
3,
70
80
84
141
131
75
70
Haiti
Hamilton
Havana
Harbour Island
Part
Part
Part
Part
1,
1,
3,
1,
129
69
46
85
Inagua
Part 1, 87
Jamaica
Jost Van Dyke
Part 1, 115
Part 1, 182
Kingston
Part 1, 121
La Guaira
Long Island
Part 3, 67
Part 1, 87
Margarita Island
Marie-Galante
Martinique
Mayreau
Montego Bay
Montserrat
Mustique
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
3,
2,
2,
2,
1,
2,
2,
68
80
99
136
118
67
135
Nassau
Negril
Nevis
New Providence Island
Part
Part
Part
Part
1,
1,
2,
1,
81
117
45
81
Ocho Rios
Part 1, 119
Palm Island
Paradise Island
Paramaribo
Peter Island
Petit St. Vincent
Puerto Plata
Puerto Rico
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Roatn
Part 3, 60
Saba
St-Barthlemy (St. Barts)
St. Croix
St. Eustatius (Statia)
St. John
St. Kitts
St. Lucia
St-Martin/Sint Maarten
St. Thomas
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
San Andrs Island
San Blas Islands, The
San Juan
San Salvador
Santo Domingo
Statia (See St. Eustatius)
Suriname
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
2,
2,
1,
2,
1,
2,
2,
2,
1,
2,
3,
3,
1,
1,
1,
2,
3,
Tobago
Tortola
Treasure Cay
Trinidad
Turks Islands
Part
Part
Part
Part
Part
3, 3
1, 180
1, 83
3, 3
1, 95
Union Island
U.S. Virgin Islands
Part 2, 136
Part 1, 167
Vieques
Virgin Gorda
Part 1, 158
Part 1, 181
Walkers Cay
Part 1, 84
2,
1,
3,
1,
2,
1,
1,
136
81
74
182
136
144
151
29
21
171
37
170
45
109
11
169
131
66
62
154
87
141
37
73
Alphabetical Destinations
xiii
o f
G u l f
El Salvador
T A
A
E
Costa
Rica
Nicaragua
Bay Islands
Cozumel
Cancn
a r
Panama
Colombia
Haiti
Cartagena
The Bahamas
Jamaica
Panama
Cuba
Cayman Islands
A
A
T
N
Aruba
I
L
LE
EW
C E A N
Caracas
Brazil
St. Lucia
Venezuela
La Guaira
Bermuda
Guyana
Trinidad
Tobago
Barbados
Martinique
A
R
D
British Virgin
Islands
U.S. Virgin
St-Martin/
Anguilla Sint Maarten
Islands
St-Barthlemy
Barbuda
Puerto Saba
St. Kitts
Rico
Antigua
Nevis
St. Eustatius Montserrat
Guadeloupe
E
S
Dominica
L E
S S E
R
Bonaire
Curaao
Dominican
Republic
Turks and
Caicos Islands
DS
C
Guatemala E
Belize
M e x i c o
Honduras
YUCATN
PENINSULA
T E
Mexico
L L
E
xiv
S
IS
N
LA
Suriname
W I N D W A R D I S L AN D
S
French
Guiana
Introduction
T
he Caribbean Sea is by far North Americas number-one warmweather international destination. Annually millions of visitors
enjoy its abundance of sun, sea, and sand.
The Caribbean is one of the first destinations that a leisure travel counselor
should learn well, along with Las Vegas,
Florida, Hawaii, and a few key U.S.
cities. This text also covers the Atlantic
islands often associated with the
Caribbean, as well as the coastal
resorts in Latin America that lie on
the perimeter of the Caribbean Sea.
Only the Mediterranean surpasses
the Caribbean in its variety of
destinations and absolute numbers
of international visitors (primarily
Europeans) at warm-weather
Arubas
Courtesy of
Palm B
Aruba Tour
resorts. But the Mediterranean is
ism Author
each
ity
a long overnight trip from the
United States, and its fall, winter, and spring
climates appeal to a smaller number of Americans. While millions
of Europeans take their chances on Mediterranean beaches with 55degree temperatures in January, millions more join North American
sun-worshippers for the steady 80-degree temperatures in the West
Indies. For sheer beauty and diversity, only the islands of the South
Pacific rival the Caribbean. But for most North Americans, the South
Pacific is halfway around the world.
The explosion of popularity in cruise vacations brings millions of additional visitors to the region. This relatively tiny sprinkle of islands in the
Caribbean Sea is by far the worlds foremost cruise destination.
The key to learning about the Caribbean is to keep in mind that there is
no one Caribbean. Most islands have an abundance of beach, sun,
resorts, and sports activities, but this does not mean that they are interchangeable. Each island has a distinctive topography, history, and culture.
Island terrains vary from deserts to lush green mountains traversed by
sparkling streams. Local culture reflects a blending of indigenous
Introduction
Cuba
Haiti
Dominican
Republic
Hispaniola
Jamaica
Puerto Rico
Andros
Population
Six islands or countries in the Caribbean have a population exceeding 1 million.
Country
Cuba
Dominican
Republic
Haiti
Puerto Rico
Jamaica
Trinidad and
Tobago
Population 0
in millions
10
12
Barbados, with 268,000 people on 166 square miles, has the highest population
density.
Caribbean Terms
A few geographical terms have been used for centuries in reference to the
Caribbean islands:
West Indies: The islands of the Caribbean became known as the West Indies
after Columbus realized that he had not arrived at islands on the east coast of
Asia or India (the East Indies) as he had planned. Coincidentally, he is
believed to have claimed them in Gods name (in el nombre del Dios), whereas the term Indies was adopted later.
The Antilles is another name for the West Indies (excluding the Bahamas).
The term derives from an ancient word referring to the area that people
believed lay west of Europe.
The Greater Antilles includes the larger islands of Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola
(Haiti and the Dominican Republic), and Puerto Rico.
The Lesser Antilles is the curve of smaller islands from the Virgin Islands to
the South American coast.
The Leeward Islands is the northern half of the Lesser Antilles.
The Windward Islands is the southern half of the Lesser Antilles.
The name of the European country that finally conquered and settled an island
often precedes the terms West Indies and Antilles. Thus the British West
Indies refers to islands that were once or are still affiliated with Great Britain.
The same is true of the French West Indies and Spanish West Indies. The
islands owned by or affiliated with the Netherlands are alternately referred to as
the Netherlands Antilles, the Dutch Antilles, or the Dutch West Indies. In the
Caribbean Culture section of this Introduction, islands are listed according to
their European affiliations.
Introduction
the altitude, the cooler the climate. At these levels, clouds condense
and rain falls almost every day, creating lush rain forests. The beaches a
few miles away are often sunny at the same time.
Bermuda, which lies much farther north in the Atlantic, is cool from
December to March, with highs in the upper 60s during the day and
lows in the upper 40s at night.
The hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30. In
some years, storms have been very few, but in the late 1990s worldwide
climatic conditions spawned numerous storms. Experts expected this
situation to continue for the first five years of the 21st century, but the
hurricane season in 2000 was exceptionally mild. More than 90 percent
of the time, travelers will encounter little threat from such storms. Fall
weather can be ideal, often with a daily thunderstorm lasting less than
an hour. However, travel counselors and visitors should check the news
daily and keep abreast of brewing tropical depressions. In recent years,
Caribbean governments have worked closely with the U.S. National
Hurricane Center and the Weather Channel and have developed
communications to protect their own residents as well as tourists.
Visitors should heed any warnings and follow all instructions given. Still,
predicting the direction and speed of storms once they have formed is
not always an exact science.
Cruises are rarely canceled because of a hurricane, but the captain may
decide to change the ships route. As a result, the cruise might miss a
port without another being substituted in its place.
Summers are generally more rainy and humid than winters, but no islands
climate is so wet that it should be avoided. There is little comparison
between what is called the rainy season (summer and fall) in the Caribbean and the monsoons and heavy rains that occur in Asia, Africa, or
other places. In the Caribbean, rain comes in squalls that usually last a few
minutes to a couple of hours. Soon, the sun is shining again.
The Caribbean peak season runs approximately from mid-December to
mid-April. During this period, the weather is almost perfect (a bit cooler
than the summer and with a bit less rain), while the northern United
States, Canada, and Northern Europe are often cold and snowy. The
peak season is the most heavily booked and also the most expensive.
Reservations generally must be made about three months in advance.
Trips during the Christmas holidays, February, and Easter vacations
should be booked even further in advance.
The rest of the year can be considered low season, off-season, or value
season, though variations occur. Some islands are almost as busy in
July and August as they are during February and March. Generally,
Physical Features
Beaches. Some are seven miles long; some are in tiny, primevallooking coves; others are lined with palms that reach into the
sea; and still others sit at the base of waterfalls cascading from
mountains. Some beaches are for snorkeling and diving; other
beaches are for sunning and relaxing. Beaches and ocean or
sea water are the key physical features of the Caribbean; they
draw millions of visitors in search of the perfect vacation.
Though beaches have a slightly different character at each
Courtesy of
Al
St. Jea
destination, the differences can be subtle if you have not
n Beac lyn Magrino
h
o
n
St-Bart
been to that particular destination. The more you know
hlemy
about them, the better. But luckily, beach-loving travelers
will be satisfied with most Caribbean beaches if they are satisfied with
the rest of their island experience. Just make sure you do not send a
beach lover to one of the few destinations with scarcely any beaches,
such as Saba or Dominica.
Beaches are primary, but they are not the only important physical feature of the islands. Most islands in the Caribbean were formed in one
of two ways. Many of the low, flat islands in the north (for example,
Introduction
the Bahamas) are coral islands that grew over eons from the remains of
these tiny sea organisms. Other islands may have beautiful beaches,
some with unsurpassed mountain backdrops, but the beaches on coral
islands are perhaps the most perfect.
The other major type of Caribbean island was formed by volcanic activity.
The southern Windwards, in particular, are the tops of volcanoes that
erupted from the ocean floor and deposited ash and lava for millions of
years until they broke the surface. Most of the volcanic islands are still
actively growingwitness the cataclysmic eruption on Martinique a century ago, and Montserrats volcano, which is still active today.
The mountains that dominate many islands do not match the altitude
of the continental ranges in North and South America. But measured
from their base at sea level, on what is a relatively small landmass, they
are as impressive as any. For example, Jamaicas Blue Mountains are
over 7,000 feet high; the Pitons of St. Lucia rise 3,000 to 4,000 feet
directly from the sea. Measured from the ocean floor, some of the
Caribbeans mountains surpass Mt. Everest in altitude. Around these
mountains are lush valleys, waterfalls, and cliffs that provide
opportunities for fascinating hikes.
Some islands are desert-like, receiving little rainfall and having barren
outcrops of stone and small hills. The mountainous islands have
volcanic soil, while the coral islands are porous limestone, which easily
dissolves to form caves, weird landscapes of rock and cliff, and
blowholes where the sea jets up through fissures in the rock.
The only other feature that can really rival the beaches is the water
itself. Calm, warm waters (sometimes the temperature of bathwater)
are protected by the curve of sand and reef, volcano and islands of the
Antilles. The sea glistens in hues of turquoise, blue, aquamarine,
green, and azure. Fish and coral share the waterscape that continues to
attract visitors.
We have grouped the islands of the Caribbean and the Atlantic into five
different regions. As you read about each island, keep in mind its
accessibility. Sometimes farther islands are more accessible (take less
time to get to) than islands that are much closer to your city, especially
when you consider factors such as flight connections, ferry rides, and
other transfers.
Courtesy of
Puerto
Rico Touris
m Company
El Mo
Old Sa rro Fortress,
n Juan,
Puerto
Rico
Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are considered part of the
United States, each in its own way. Puerto Rico is a self-governing
commonwealth of the United States. Puerto Ricans are American
Introduction
Courtesy of
St. Vincent
and the Gr
enadines To
urist Office
An artis
an in th
e
Grenad
ines
Introduction
10
Location
Description
Anse du Gouverneur
St-Barthlemy
Cable Beach
Grand Anse
Grenada
Antigua
Le Diamant
Martinique
Luquillo Beach
Puerto Rico
Magens Bay
Negril Beach
Jamaica
Palm Beach
Aruba
Playa Grande
Dominican Republic
Grand Cayman
Shoal Bay
Anguilla
Trunk Bay
Introduction
11
Air Charters
Charter flights to the Caribbean generally operate from larger U.S.
cities. They operate under rules different from those governing
scheduled air flights. Charters may use airlines that also have scheduled
flights or airlines that offer only charters but are little known to the
general public. Charter airlines must follow the same safety rules, prescribed by the Federal Aviation Administration, as scheduled carriers.
12
Jet Lag
Depending on the point of departure, actual flying time between North America
and the various islands ranges from one hour to five or more hours (considerably
more from the West Coast). Travelers coming from the Central (CST) or Eastern
Standard (EST) Time zones will experience little imbalance of their body clock,
because most of the Caribbean is on Eastern Standard Time or Atlantic
Standard Time (AST) (one hour later than Eastern Standard Time). However, the
fatigue factor of rising very early, driving to the airport, checking in about an hour
and a half before flight time, coupled with the flight itself and transportation from
the airport to the hotel, should be taken into account when planning a clients
schedule. These factors, along with possible time changes (depending on point
of departure) and flight delays, can fatigue travelers. A prepared client is much
more likely to be a happy client.
Those flying from the West Coast to the Caribbean will usually incur a time
change, entailing some jet lag in addition to the usual fatigue of long hours of
travel. Before departure, travelers can begin to minimize any effects by adjusting
their eating and sleeping schedules to Eastern Standard or Atlantic Standard
Time and by arriving at the airport in plenty of time.
Sitting on a plane for five hours can be quite tiring as well. The combination of
high ozone content, low humidity, and constant pressurization of the cabin has a
draining effect. Passengers will feel worse if they consume alcohol, carbonated
beverages, or excessive amounts of caffeine. Suggest that they drink plenty of
water or juice instead. If passengers are flying during hours when they would
normally be sleeping, they should try to sleep on the plane. Sleeping pills, travelsickness medicines, and other medications may work for the moment but often
aggravate jet lag over the following days.
A travel counselor can help travelers overcome jet lag by ensuring that they are
not immediately rushed into hectic schedules. Passengers may be too excited on
arrival to go to sleep, but a short nap helps diminish fatigue. On the first day at a
resort or on a cruise ship, vacationers should do little except relax and soak up a
bit of sun. On subsequent days, they can begin sightseeing, sport activities, and
nighttime entertainment.
Introduction
13
14
Awaitin
g
Courtesy of
St. Maarten
Tourist Offic
e
takeoff
on St. M
aarten
Local Transportation
Public Transportation
On some islands, public transportation is just as convenient for
vacationers as it is for local residents. More often than not, however,
traveling on public buses, vans, or jitneys (ones that serve dedicated
routes) is quite time-consuming. Although vacationers who use public
transportation will find themselves immersed in the local culture, most
visitors prefer to use taxis, car rentals, or tours for transportation and
travel around the islands.
Introduction
15
Taxis
The vast majority of islands have some sort of fixed schedule of taxi
fares from one point to another. These are set either by the government or by local taxi operators. They are sometimes posted in hotels or
at taxi stands, but usually it is up to the rider to find out the fare from
the driver before the trip starts. Meters are seldom used, and even
when they are, add-ons (surcharges for going to and from the airport
or the cruise port, for extra people or bags, or for nighttime travel)
make the final fare hard to determine anyway.
If possible, clients should first ask the hotel or tourist office about taxi
fares. They should then always reconfirm or agree on the fare with the
driver before getting into the vehicle. Before hiring a taxi, prudent
passengers may also wish to check the condition of the vehicle and the
drivers command of English and his knowledge of the islands sights
and history. The latter is particularly important when hiring a taxi for
an island tour.
Visitors who depend on taxis should make arrangements ahead of
time if they plan to stay out late. Taxis can be hard to come by or
prices can escalate. Even so, clients need to be flexible, in keeping
with island ambiance.
Car Rentals
Car rental companies run the gamut from the major ones familiar to
most Americans to local people meeting the boat with their private
cars. This course does not rate companies or recommend them for specific islands. Some strictly local companies may be better than the local
affiliates of the major companies. If you want some idea of reliability,
check with the tourist office or find out which rental companies tour
operators tend to book on their fly/drive packages.
Whether clients should rent a car depends on the answers to a few
questions: How isolated is the resort? Do the clients want to see a
number of sights outside the resort? How large is the island? How well
do the clients handle new driving situations? What is their budget?
When you advise clients on driving itineraries, be as conservative as
possible. The larger islands can be as big as a U.S. state, while the
smaller ones may be the size of a county. Nonetheless, even on small
islands there may be a lot to see. Almost all roads on Caribbean islands
are two lanes, so you should budget two to three times as much driving
time as for comparable distances on U.S. highways. If roads are poor,
increase the driving time estimate even more: many islands are
mountainous, or at least hilly; animals and people often get in the way;
16
and drivers will be in new terrain, possibly driving on the left side of
the road.
Driving can be a good way to find romantic beaches in hidden coves or
visit authentic Creole restaurants in small villages where few tourists
venture. However, drivers can also find themselves negotiating narrow,
mountainous roads under a blazing sun with a broken or no airconditioner; getting lost on a bumpy path in the middle of a sugarcane
field; and arriving back at their resort in a state of exhaustion. Be sure
you know how adventuresome your clients are before you suggest a
rental car for them.
A one- or two-day rental to see the island sights might be the ideal
solution for many clients. Still, they might do just as well taking a taxi
tour and leaving the driving to someone else. However, you must plan
ahead during the winter season; companies on some islands may have a
three-day minimum for rentals, and cars may sell out.
Accommodations
Surveys have found that for 75 percent of travelers the choice of
accommodation can make or break a trip. This text is devoted to
helping you choose the right destination for your clients, but choosing
the right accommodation at that destination can be just as important.
It is not within the scope of this text to cover every choice of
accommodation. Even if it were, changes occur frequently. Hotels
close, reopen, undergo renovation, change ownership, and are
occasionally damaged by storms.
However, we do describe what type of accommodations predominate
on each island. We sometimes mention well-known hotels, chains, allinclusive resorts, or historic inns to give a flavor of what is available,
although that does not necessarily mean that they are more suitable for
a specific client than those that are not mentioned. Some accommodations are listed because they stand out for a special reason; others are
listed because they are representative of a group of similar hotels. The
brief list of accommodations will give you a starting point to help you
gain familiarity with Caribbean lodgings.
You should consult sources such as the Official Hotel Guide
(www.ohgonline.com), the Caribbean Hotel Association Gold Book
(www.caribbeantravel.com), the AAA Caribbean Travelbook
(www.aaa.com/news12/Diamonds/travelbook2.html), tourist office
references, updates in special sections of the trade press, your offices
preferred trade manuals, and the hotel itself. For further hotel guidance, you should read consumer guidebooks such as the Caribbean
Introduction
17
18
Small enclave resorts can exist in all categories from budget to deluxe,
but certain islands are known for their smaller, more secluded luxury
resorts that are among the best in the world. They do not try to be all
things to all people and often are sedate and aimed at travelers who
want to escape the bustle of everyday life. Such resorts are ready to
arrange for any type of activity or to suggest where more varied
entertainment can be found.
All-inclusives have become one of the most successful hotel types in the
Caribbean. Club Med, the innovator of this concept, has a number of
resorts in the area. It originated in France and has a special Continental
ambiance. Jamaica has no Club Meds but nonetheless is the king of the
all-inclusives. Most of Jamaicas larger all-inclusives are members of the
SuperClubs or Sandals groups. Today many of the all-inclusives are
geared toward singles, couples, or families. Some are restricted solely to
these clients. Others are spas or have cutting-edge health club facilities,
or specialize in certain sports such as scuba-diving and tennis. See
Specialty Niches on page 44 for more information on spas.
Condominiums, villas, suites, apartments, and efficiencies are generally larger than hotel rooms. Such accommodations provide cooking
facilities and refrigerators. They are found on most islands, and their
numbers are growing. Some are offered on major-supplier packages,
but others must be sought out through condominium referral services
or through the tourist boards.
City hotels are the exception in the Caribbean. San Juan, Puerto Rico,
is the only large city that has a major beach resort area right in the city,
similar to cities such as Honolulu, Hawaii, or Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Other large cities, such as Kingston, Jamaica, Santo Domingo,
Dominican Republic, and Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, have major hotels
with many amenities, but guests must take a long taxi or bus ride to
reach the beaches. Otherwise, city hotels on most islands tend to be
moderate to budget choices in the middle of the noise of traffic and
people. However, in smaller cities, these hotels may be a few steps or a
short bike ride away from the beach.
Guesthouses and inns can be found throughout the Caribbean. They
appeal especially to people who enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts
(B&Bs) and other types of cozy lodgings. Many islands boast elegant
plantation houses. In a few cases, on smaller satellite islands, a guesthouse may be the only accommodation available.
Camping is discouraged or forbidden on most Caribbean islands.
Notable exceptions are St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands and the
French islands, particularly Martinique and Guadeloupe. Most of St.
Introduction
19
Practical Information
Immigration and Customs
When traveling abroad, all travelers are required to have some form of
identification that proves their citizenship. For Americans traveling to
the Caribbean, proof of citizenship is usually all that is required. The
exceptions are the countries of Latin America and their island possessions and the island of Cuba.
There are three major forms of citizenship documents:
A birth certificate. Travelers must have the original or an official,
certified copy with an embossed government seal. If they only have a
photocopy, they will be sent home from the airport, most likely
without a refund for their trip.
Naturalization papers, showing that the person is a naturalized
American citizen.
A passport. This is the best form of identification; it proves
citizenship and constitutes permission by ones home country to
travel abroad.
If they are carrying a birth certificate or naturalization papers, travelers
should also have a picture form of identification (in any case, they will
need it to board any plane or cruise ship). Technically, a voters registration card along with a separate picture ID is also proof of citizenship, but many islands may not recognize them as such. Clients should
carry one of the three major forms of citizenship documents.
Despite the foregoing, the travel counselor must keep up with current
events and regulations in the region. Situations could change. For
example, in the 1980s France instituted more stringent regulations in
order to monitor possible terrorism in France. For a number of years,
travelers to the French islands in the Caribbean were required to have
both a passport and a visa.
A few islands and the country of Mexico require a tourist card, which is
issued to travelers at the airport or upon arrival. Travelers must keep the
tourist card with them during the trip, as they will be asked to surrender
it upon departure. Failure to do so usually results in delay or problems,
or worse; they might not be allowed to leave the country at that time.
20
The foregoing applies to American citizens. U.S. residents who are not
American citizens should carry their residency card (green card) and
whatever documentation is required relative to their country of citizenship. In 99 percent of the cases, the U.S. residency card and separate
picture ID are sufficient. Nevertheless, the travel counselor should
either double-check that such clients have the correct documentation
or have them sign a waiver that they, and not the travel counselor, are
responsible for having the correct documentation.
Americans may bring home imports up to the following amounts without paying tax or duty on them:
$1,200 per person from the U.S. Virgin Islands
$600 per person from most Caribbean destinations
$400 per person from the French islands of Guadeloupe and
Martinique
Thus, a family of four is permitted $4,800 of exemptions when returning from the U.S. Virgin Islands or $2,400 from most other locations.
Tax on anything over the limit is 5 percent from the U.S. Virgin
Islands and 10 percent from other islands.
Puerto Rico, which is an American commonwealth, is considered the
same as a U.S. state as regards customs and duties. People traveling
between Puerto Rico and the United States do not go through customs at all. Upon return to the United States, they may import an
unlimited amount of goods from the island. All travelers entering
Puerto Rico from other islands will be subject to customs, just as they
would upon entering the United States.
On the flight or cruise back to the United States, passengers complete a
customs declaration that is examined and collected by customs on
arrival. All items acquired abroad over the applicable limit must be itemized. Receipts for purchases should be kept with the declaration form.
In addition to the duty-free exemption, passengers of any age may each
bring in up to 100 cigars and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Passengers 21
years of age or older may also bring in up to one liter of alcohol (one
gallon from the U.S. Virgin Islands). Some states have laws that prohibit the importation of alcohol or tobacco products regardless of federal regulations. State regulations and enforcement vary widely.
The process of going through customs upon entering the United States
has been substantially streamlined in recent years. But travelers who
might be tempted to cheat should realize that everyone entering the
Introduction
21
Lee
uilla
on Ang
s
t
a
e
r
t
Food
22
however, they do not realize the power of the tropical sun, which
shines at a more direct angle. Here the travel counselor can be helpful
in pointing out the adverse effects of sun-poisoning (a good term to
use with the uninitiated). For example, during a daylong booze
cruise, clients should keep in the shade much of the time, use
protective clothing and a high-PF sunscreen, and drink in moderation.
Too much sun and alcohol can lead to fever or chills, headaches,
nausea, or dizziness, in addition to the pain of the sunburn.
Even those who are not normally bothered by strong sun should use
sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a coverup for the beach, especially
between 11 A.M. and 2 P.M. Exposure to the sun should be limited on
the first day and be gradual thereafter. Long-sleeved shirts and long
pants are also essential for a day on a boat where reflections from the
water increase the likelihood of sunburn. Travelers should drink plenty
of nonalcoholic and noncaffeinated liquids. When applying sunscreen,
they should not forget sensitive areas such as the face, hands, and feet.
If they do get a sunburn, they should stay out of the sun until the
condition subsides.
As with any travel abroad, the number-one risk travelers face is from
vehicular accidents. Those renting cars should know how to drive
defensively. Those on bicycles, motorbikes, or scooters should be
particularly wary.
However, for first-time visitors to the Caribbean, personal safety is
often more of a concern. Caribbean family, social, and moral codes are
strong, and violent crime is rare. But crime has been rising on some
islands where the social structure has begun to weaken as the people
confront sudden changes brought on by many factors, including
burgeoning tourism.
On some islands where there is a great disparity in income between
vacationers and residents, petty thievery can be a problem. It is best not
to invite temptation. Visitors should keep valuables in the hotel or
cruise ship safe and should always lock their room doors. They should
avoid leaving valuables, such as cameras, purses, or money, lying unattended on the beach while swimming. You might want to advise your
clients to wear a moneybelt, and if they carry travelers checks to keep
the check numbers in a separate place.
In general, it is a good idea to stay alert and be aware of ones immediate surroundings when traveling in any unfamiliar country. This is especially true of the larger cities on the larger islands. Exercising caution
minimizes the possibility of becoming a victim of crime. Every society
has its criminals, and it is the individuals responsibility to stay aware of
potential danger.
Introduction
23
You can obtain further information regarding safety and other issues
from the U.S. State Departments Web site at www.travel.state.gov. You
should carefully read the State Department report about any island to
which you regularly send clients. The State Department issues three
types of travel information declarations:
1. Travel warnings recommend that Americans avoid travel to certain
countries and explain why.
2. Public service announcements describe short-term terrorist threats
or specific conditions that create risk for American travelers. These
are generally related to specific countries but can include worldwide
or regional conditions or threats.
3. Consular information sheets present facts and situations about
every country in the world. Safety and security issues are detailed
when appropriate, and travelers can make up their own minds about
what precautions to take or if they wish to travel.
Money Matters
The U.S. dollar is the legal currency of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin
Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
On other islands, hotel bills are often presented in U.S. dollars, even
though the islands legal currency may be different.
French islands use Euros, and Dutch islands use the Netherlands
guilder, generally referred to as the florin. These islands began using
the Euro in the year 2002. Eight islands in the Eastern Caribbean use
the Eastern Caribbean dollar (ECD). All other islands and countries
have their own currencies, but the U.S. dollar is recognized and accepted in most places.
Those visiting the islands off cruise ships will seldom need to convert
their money into the local currency, though they can usually do so
aboard ship. However, they should be aware of exchange rates and
prices for transportation and goods if they plan to tour on their own.
The French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe are exceptions,
where most transactions are conducted in Euros and where local
vendors may not always know the current exchange rate. On all
islands, buses, telephones, vending machines, and small tips require
local currency.
Clients staying on one island for any length of time should become
familiar with the local currency. They may want to purchase small
amounts of foreign currency before arrival, even though exchange rates
24
The Fast Facts section of each island does not include currency
exchange rates because most rates fluctuate, in some cases substantially.
A number of Web sites provide conversion charts for foreign currencies
(such as www.xe.net/ucc). Many other leading travel sites also have
currency converters.
Credit cards are widely accepted in the Caribbean, and clients should
be encouraged to use them. Exchange rates are generally better than
those offered at local banks after service charges and/or fees are added.
ATM machines are available in most places. Before they travel, clients
should make sure their ATM cards are tied into an international network. Bringing travelers checks (rather than carrying cash) is recommended. Travelers checks either can be exchanged for local currency
or can be used directly in the many places that accept U.S. dollars.
Most islands impose international air departure taxes of up to $30;
most commonly these taxes are $10 or $20. A schedule of the latest
departure taxes may be found in the annual edition of the Caribbean
Tourism Organizations (CTO) Caribbean Vacation Planner. Air departures to local islands may also incur a tax of a few dollars (likewise for
boat departures). Martinique and Guadeloupe have no departure taxes
as of the year 2000.
Insurance
Before clients purchase any type of travel insurance, they should review
the insurance coverage they already have to make sure they are not
buying duplicate coverage. (Consult the insurance information in The
Travel Institutes Selling Travel Insurance elective module of the
Certified Travel Agent program for further information and Web sites
for the major companies.) Travelers need to consider several types of
insurance:
Once visitors are on the island, they will find the best exchange rates at
banks and government-approved exchange houses. Hotels and some
restaurants and vendors will exchange currency, but generally at lower
rates. Visitors to the Caribbean should never conduct private currency
transactions with hustlers in the street. There are some countries in the
world where this is a common medium of exchange. But this is rarely true
in the Caribbean, where the doubtful benefit of a tiny percentage gain in
an exchange rate on the street is greatly outweighed by the possibility of
counterfeit currency or a quick switch when the money is exchanged.
at home are not as good as those abroad. By doing so, travelers will be
able to avoid long lines at airport currency exchange booths or the
inconvenience of banks being closed upon arrival.
Tipping is a general
practice in the
Caribbean, and visitors
should have dollars or
some local currency to
tip for services. Hotels
and restaurants add a
service charge to the
bill, but it is customary
to tip waiters, chambermaids, porters, elevator
operators, bellhops, and
others who offer small
personal services.
Though most
restaurants will add a
service charge (usually
15 percent), it is
customary to round up
the bill or increase the
tip to 20 percent if
service was good. Other
service people who
should be tipped are
taxi drivers, guides at
tourist sights, hair
stylists, and auto
mechanics.
Introduction
25
Packing
The first bit of advice for packing is to travel light. Baggage carts are
scarce at airports in the Caribbean, especially smaller ones, and luggage
restrictions are tight. Clients on package tours to major islands with
nonstop flights may get away with taking the maximum amount of
luggage if transfers are included. If travelers connecting to small carriers
take too much luggage, it will often be delivered late. Small planes have
strict weight requirements, and excess luggage may be shipped on
subsequent flights.
Dress is generally casual and comfortable in the Caribbean. Light-
26
Sightseeing at higher elevations may require long pants and a longsleeved shirt. These will also provide protection from the sun during
the first days of a trip. It is a good idea to bring film and sunscreen
from home, since they are much more expensive on the islands.
Travelers might want to bring insect repellent as well. And lastly, as on
any vacation, comfortable shoes are a must.
weight cotton and loose-fitting clothing are best in the heat and
humidity. A coverup for the beach is important, as is a hat in the
tropical sun. Sun hats are a fun purchase after arrival. Air-conditioning
in some restaurants is quite cool, so patrons might be more comfortable with a light jacket or wrap. Men may want a jacket for more formal dining. Evening wear is generally casual, but some islands are a bit
more chic than others.
History
Almost all travelers will benefit from knowing something of an islands
history and background, even if their only motivation is sun and fun.
The language, architecture, ancestry, political affiliation, and local attitudes toward tourism all stem from the areas history. Though each
islands history is a bit different, the broadest patterns are the same on
most of them:
Introduction
27
28
riches of the New World back to Spain. They built forts on these
islands to protect their ownership and to allow ships carrying booty to
sail home safely. Today these forts are among the top tourist sights in
Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.
The Spanish largely bypassed the smaller islandsthe Bahamas, the
Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, and the southern islands
which were of little interest to them as they set about to secure the
mainland. Even their first foothold in the Bahamas, on October 12,
1492, was soon abandoned. This is why the vast majority of countries
in Latin America are Spanish-speaking today, while most of the
Caribbean islands are not.
The Caribs continued their hold on many of the smaller islands for the
next 100 to 200 years. When Spains dominance on the world stage
began to decline (especially after the defeat of the Spanish Armada in
1588), the Dutch, British, French, Danish, and others began exploring,
colonizing, and gaining control of most of these smaller islands. Spain
lost control of parts of the Greater Antilles as well. Jamaica was taken
over by the British in the late 1600s; today little can be seen of Spains
legacy there, except in the names of two of its most important cities,
Spanish Town and Ocho Rios. The western third of Hispaniola (now
Haiti) was heavily settled by the French, who took advantage of Spains
neglect of the island. In 1804 Haiti became the first independent
Caribbean country.
Islands often changed hands frequently. For example, the Spanish held
Trinidad until 1797, when it was finally captured by the British. Its
sister island, Tobago, changed hands more than twenty times, among
the Spanish, French, British, Dutch, and pirate groups. It was
even colonized by Latvians at one point. If you look at the
location of Dominica, St. Lucia, and Grenada (situated near
the French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe), you
wont be surprised that the language spoken today by the
islanders among themselves is a French patois, even though
they eventually became English-controlled islands.
During most of the Spanish rule, many of the islands were
barely inhabited. The Amerindian population had been
decimated or annihilated. The introduction of sugarcane
Courtesy of
and an organized means of producing it in large quantities
Ministry of
Tourism of
Haitis
Haiti
U
n
k
n
o
would totally change these islands. This hugely profitable
w
before
n
S
la
ve
the Nat
ional P
crop needed a large labor supply. Some indentured seralace
vants were brought in, but more laborers were needed. Beginning
in the late 1600s, the British, French, and Dutch solved this labor
shortage by instituting the slave trade. The Spanish and Portuguese
Introduction
29
Caribbean Culture
One of the Caribbeans endless fascinations is the variety of peoples
that have melded to create new and different cultures. Each island was
settled and fought over by different groups of Europeans, who brought
30
SWEDEN
DENMARK
GREAT
BRITAIN
NETHERLANDS
GERMANY
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
FRANCE
Caribbean
Europe
SPAIN
Lesbos
Introduction
31
32
sive. They are integral departments of France. Four major destinations make up the French Caribbean: the two major islands,
Guadeloupe and Martinique; St-Barthlemy (called St.
Barts); and half of the island of St-Martin. St-Martin is
much smaller than the two major islands, but it is much closer to the United States and receives more American visitors
than the other three islands. However, many stay on the
Dutch side of the island. St-Martin is also an extremely
popular port of call for cruises.
A lot of the resort staff on the French islands speak
English, but if visitors want to enjoy their vacation, they
should have some familiarity with French. The food is
outstanding, and topless bathing is accepted at beaches and
swimming pools. The overall style is very French and very chic.
Bastille
Courtesy of
St-Martin
Tourist Offic
e
Day in
St-Mart
in
Introduction
33
Local Language
On all the islands, most residents speak their own version of the main
language. Sometimes its just a variation of accent interspersed with special
words in that islands dialect; in other instances, its almost an entirely separate
language. These dialects usually fall into three categories:
A patois (pronounced pa TWA) is usually a version of English or one of the
other three dominant languages (French, Spanish, or Dutch). It can range
from little more than a strong accent to a very different dialect. An English
patois varies depending on what part of Great Britain colonists originally
came from (Ireland or Scotland, for instance). The same is true with a
French patois; for example, colonists from Normandy brought their own
French dialect.
Creole is often French-based, but it can be a mixture of any of the four
major language groups (French, English, Spanish, or Dutch) with large
measures of African languages and smaller doses of other languages
(Portuguese, Danish, Carib-Indian) mixed in. The Africans who were enslaved
and brought to the Caribbean came from many different African nations and
spoke many different languages.
Papiamentu is the Dutch version of the Creole polyglot and is spoken
mostly on the Dutch islands.
34
The Arts
Music
For many people, Caribbean music is reason enough to visit the islands.
Added to the tropical atmosphere, beaches, and resort life, it creates an
Introduction
35
36
Introduction
37
dishes. The Dutch islands also have many Chinese restaurants, and
Dutch cheeses and other Continental fare are widely available.
The Spanish-speaking islands have their own distinctive cuisine,
although they have borrowed from Spain and Latin America. In the
Dominican Republic, sancocho (a thick stew) is the national dish; in
Puerto Rico, its lechon asado (roast pork); in Cuba, rice with black
beans and pork are major food staples.
The Caribbeans alcoholic beverages can be summed up in two words
rum and beer. Rum is made from sugarcane, which is grown on
almost every island. The Caribbean produces most of the worlds rum,
and most islands have their own special brands. Visitors can often tour
rum distilleries, which are among the areas most popular sights. The
Caribbeans many rum drinks are world famous: pia coladas, daiquiris,
zombies, Cuba libres, and planters punch, to name a few.
Beer is the other popular alcoholic drink. Carib and Red Stripe are two
of the most popular local brands, but visitors will also find imported
beers everywhere. Specialty liqueurs such as Tia Maria from Jamaica
and Curaao from Curaao are popular items to consume or bring back
home. Water is safe to drink almost everywhere, but visitors often prefer bottled water. Many islands have local soft drinks made with ginger
or fruits, and imported colas are available everywhere. Thirsty visitors
might also enjoy coconut water and coconut milk, which can be found
at beach stands.
Local Sports
To some degree, Caribbean people enjoy the same participant and
spectator sports as North Americans. On the other hand, their traditions also emphasize other sports that are less familiar to Americans.
The most obvious example is cricket, which is played on almost every
island with British ancestry. The British West Indian team has some of
the worlds best cricket players. Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, and
Antigua have contributed several team members.
Soccer is immensely popular, and in recent decades the area has
produced top Olympic track stars. Horse racing is widely enjoyed on a
few islands. On other islands, locals enjoy cockfighting and battles
between a mongoose and a snake.
38
nearly everywhere. The last five days before Lent (in February or
March) is the culmination of more than a month of festive events; however, on some islands, Carnival coincides with harvest festivals, independence day, or some other meaningful milestone. Band, music, costume,
and beauty pageant competitions are spirited. If clients visit an island
during Carnival celebrations, it will surely be a vacation to remember.
Carnival in Trinidad is by far the most renowned, rivaling those
in Venice, Italy, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and New Orleanss
Mardi Gras. In Trinidad, the costumes are more elaborate (and
outrageous), the parades are larger, the steel-drum and calypso
music is more authentic, the dancing is more widespread, and
the entire population gets more involved than anywhere else
in the Caribbean. Other Carnivals that stand out are those on
Martinique and Guadeloupe (Mardi Gras), Curaao,
Barbados (Crop Over Festival in August), St. Lucia (now
held in August so as not to compete with Trinidads
Carnival), Nassau (Junkanoo, on the day after Christmas
and the day after New Years), and St. Thomas (in April).
Courtesy of
Good Times
Produc
fo
Carniva r Trinidad and Tobago Tourtioismns
l in
Trinidad
The Spanish cultures tend to have fiestas on days honoring the patron
saint of various cities. These celebrations are therefore spread out during the year. Music festivals are a prominent part of the Caribbean calendar. St-Barthlemy has a festival every January that features soloists
and musicians from around the world. The six-week-long Bermuda
Festival of the Performing Arts, in January and February, attracts
international talent in many fields. In May, Barbados hosts the
Caribbean Jazz Festival, brimming with the sounds of Latin music,
pop, jazz, and salsa. Festival Casals draws world-famous orchestras,
choruses, and choirs to Puerto Rico in June. Although we provide the
dates for these and other festivals in the text, you should always verify
an islands most current calendar of events with the tourist board.
You can research many other local events through the islands
brochures or Web sites. Carnival-type events are usually spontaneous
local celebrations that are also shared with visitors, while music and arts
festivals are often presented with an eye to both local and foreign
attendees. Other special events occur primarily for the vacation
community: such as yachting regattas, fishing tournaments, golf and
tennis competitions, and windsurfing championships.
Each island also has its own special holidays, when banks, stores, and
public buildings may be closed. On these days, it may be difficult or
impossible for visitors to go shopping or conduct business. The SFC
Travel Publications World Travel Guide (www.travel-guide.com) lists
public holidays for countries around the world.
Introduction
39
40
A hat p
Courtesy of
St-Barthlem
y
urchase
on St-B
Tourist Offic
e
arthlem
Introduction
41
Thirteen UNESCO
classified World
Heritage Sites are
located in the
Caribbean area covered
in this book. Seven of
these are in The
Western Caribbean and
the Coast of Latin
America section. Of
these seven, five are in
Cuba and will not be
discussed here. The
other two are:
Belizes barrier
reef system
The port,
fortresses, and
monuments of
Cartagena,
Colombia
The six that are in the
Caribbean proper are:
Morne Trois Pitons
National Park on
Dominica
The Colonial City of
Santo Domingo,
Dominican Republic
The Citadelle and
Sans Souci in
northern Haiti
Brimstone Hill
Fortress on St. Kitts
La Fortaleza and El
Morro forts and
San Juan Historic
Site in San Juan,
Puerto Rico
The downtown
waterfront of
Willemstad, Curaao
42
yourself with these natural and cultural sights. Most travelers usually
want to see only one or two of them, such as the fort and old city of
San Juan or a Mayan ruin in the Yucatn. For the small percentage of
travelers who want to see much more, you can do further research.
Each chapter also presents some special secret that discerning travelers
might especially enjoy.
More and more, islands are featuring attractions that take advantage of
their natural environment, such as aquariums, oceanariums, water
parks, and turtle farms. Also included in this category are special tours,
such as a two-person raft trip down a river, a glass-bottom boat tour to
see the wonders of the deep, or a sail on a pirate boat. We mention
only the major attractions and special tours for each island, but almost
every island has some variation of them.
Destinations that can be sold to atypical Caribbean visitors (especially
culture enthusiasts) tend to be the larger and more popular islands and
countries, such as Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and
Mexico, and, to a lesser degree, Jamaica and Trinidad.
Lively Resorts
The Bahamas
Dominican Republic
Puerto Rico
Antigua
Aruba
Barbados
Jamaica
St-Martin
Trinidad
Bermuda
Cayman Islands
Guadeloupe
Martinique
St. Kitts
St. Lucia
U.S. Virgin Islands
(St. Croix and St. Thomas)
If your clients want gambling as part of their Caribbean vacation, you can eliminate some destinations right away. Easily the most popular gambling location is
the Bahamasspecifically Nassau/Paradise Island and Freeport, Grand Bahama;
these two islands are close to Florida and are relatively sophisticated. (The Out
Islands have no casinos as yet.) Casinos in Guadeloupe and Martinique require
proper dress, a $10 entrance fee (admission to slot-machine areas may be free),
and a degree of sophistication. In addition to those listed below, Antigua, St. Kitts,
Turks and Caico Islands, St. Vincent are other destinations that also have casinos.
Top Islands for Gambling
Aruba
The Bahamas
Curaao
Dominican Republic
Puerto Rico
Sint Maarten (Dutch side)
Introduction
43
Tour Packages
Even if your clients wish to travel independently rather than on a set
charter or bulk air program, you can still book them on a package with a
tour operator. (A bulk air program is one that charters seats on regularly
scheduled flights and otherwise operates like a charter program.) Your
clients retain almost all the flexibility of independent travel and may
enjoy a savings over booking the hotel separately.
Besides general tours, there are many special-interest tours, such as
sports packages and honeymoon specials. Scuba-diving packages are
among the most popular. Environmental packages may feature tours of
rain forests, nature preserves, and marine reserves. Natural history tours
focus on flora and fauna. Be it sailing, tennis, golf, horseback riding, or
another special interest, travelers can usually find a suitable tour package.
Travelers with a passion for a special activity will, on average, be willing
to spend more, travel farther, and take longer to get to their destination
than other travelers. Travel counselors with expertise in a particular special interest can build up their clientele around this niche market. (See
The Travel Institutes CTA or CTC elective module Selling Special
Interest Travel for more details.)
Cruises
Cruising has become one of the fastest-growing and most successful
segments in the U.S. travel industry, and the Caribbean is the premier
cruise destination. The huge expansion in ships and the increased
number of available berths between 1995 and 2005 will make this true
for years to come and probably much longer. Cruising is a relaxing,
convenient way to discover a few islands on one trip. The season for
sailing in the Caribbean is nearly year-round because the waters are
generally calm, and the trade winds keep temperatures steady.
One reason that so many travelers enjoy the cruise experience is that it
gives them a way to sample more than one islands beaches, sights,
shops, and restaurants. Most cruise lines call on at least three islands,
some up to six, in a seven-day sail. At the end of the week, passengers
discover that some islands have more appeal than others, making their
choice of next years trip to the sun easy.
44
Courtesy of
Cayman Isla
nds Departm
A tende
ent of Tour
r in the
ism
Cayma
n Island
s
Many ports of the smaller islands do not have enough deep water or
dock space to accommodate todays megaships. In such cases, ships
must anchor in the harbor, and passengers are transferred to and from
shore in smaller boats called tenders. Passengers suffering from physical
handicaps may find getting in and out of the tender difficult because
they have to negotiate steps or narrow gangways. The water is usually
calm close to shore, but any kind of ocean swell can make using tenders
more difficult. During very bad weather, it is impossible. The captain
then makes the decision to move on to the next destination.
Travel counselors should remember that Caribbean cruises provide a
great deal of variety: travelers can sample different cultures, shops,
scenery, and activities almost every day. The drawback is that cruisegoers
get only a fleeting glimpse of each island. However, most people take a
cruise in order to relax rather than to tour. This is particularly true of
repeat cruisegoers, some of whom may not even get off the ship at some
islands. Those who do tour every island often report that the islands
tend to blur together after the third port. Travel counselors may suggest
that clients visit the beach on one island, go shopping on another, and
engage in some sport activity on yet another, just to vary their journey.
Cruise travelers will sometimes make a snap judgment, good or bad,
about an entire island, based solely on the few hours they spend at a
Introduction
45
cruise port. However, one should try to avoid falling into this trap.
Some islands do not put their best face forward at their ports and docks.
Travel counselors can develop a more well-rounded picture of a destination by visiting the rest of the island and by doing some research.
Sports
e
Tourist Offic
Guadeloupe
Courtesy of
Snorkeling
Skin-diving or snorkeling, and scuba-diving have a lot in common.
They can be enjoyed as secondary activities at almost every destination
covered in this text. However, travel counselors should know the best
destinations for these two sports, in order to make recommendations
or at least to be conversant with these diving spots when clients
mention them.
Despite their similarities, snorkeling and scuba-diving are distinct
sports. In snorkeling, swimmers breathe through a snorkel or tube
while keeping their head underwater for better vision. Experienced
snorkelers can dive underwater for as long as they can hold their
breath; when they need to come up for air, they clear their snorkel of
water by blowing it out and then continue to breathe again. But even
novices to the sport can quickly learn to snorkel.
Some of the most famous snorkeling sites are not suitable for everyone,
and at certain times of the year they might not be in the best of condition due to hurricanes, other climatic changes, or overuse by visitors.
For example, certain sea lagoons along the Yucatn are inundated by
thousands of people from cruise ships on some days. These lagoons are
spectacularly beautiful, especially for first-time visitors; for other vacationers, however, the crowds might ruin the experience.
46
Scuba-Diving
Though snorkeling is much less the sole motivation for a trip compared
to scuba-diving, beginning snorkelers may later take up scuba-diving.
Many areas, particularly those with shallow water, have been specially
designated as snorkeling sites or underwater trails, with signs describing
the coral and other sights.
Excellent snorkeling
sites can be found
throughout the
Caribbean, but the
following are among
the more famous ones:
U.S. and British
Virgin Islands,
especially the
underwater trails at
St. Croixs Buck
Island National
Monument and St.
Johns Trunk Bay
Out Islands of the
Bahamas, especially
Eleuthera
Turks and Caicos
Islands
Cayman Islands
Curaaos
Underwater Park
Bonaire
Bonaire
Cayman Islands
Belize
Almost all islands have outstanding dive spots, but three stand out among the
others:
Cozumel
Even though Saba has practically no beaches, its underwater mountain cliffs,
lava flows, and marine life are spectacular. Other outstanding diving destinations
are the Out Islands of the Bahamas, the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, Turks and
Caicos Islands, many of the Leeward Islands and Windward Islands and Belize.
Introduction
47
Sailing
On many islands, visitors can arrange a half-day or full-day sail on a
Sunfish or Hobie Cat, often without prior reservations. Another
option, particularly for small groups (four to ten people), is to charter a
yacht or boat for a weeks sail. The cost usually is comparable to a
seven-day cruise on a large cruise ship. Your clients can charter a vessel
with a complete crew that sails, cooks, and takes care of every detail.
Or they can charter a bareboat (without crews) if they are experienced
sailors. Many clients have never considered the option of chartering a
private boat, so this is a niche market just waiting to be cultivated.
Windsurfing (Sailboarding)
Windsurfing is popular at almost every Caribbean destination, as are
most watersports. Instruction is available at many major resorts or with
local sports operators, while the experienced can seek out numerous
locations where they may be the only sail in sight. Warm waters (for
those planned or unplanned plunges into the surf) and steady trade
winds throughout the Caribbean make it a paradise for this sport.
Standing out somewhat among their fellow destinations for windsurfing are
The Dominican Republic: The north coast at Cabrete is the prime location
(especially good during the summer) and is home to international competitions.
Barbados: Both calm waters for beginners and strong winds for the experienced (especially good during winter and spring), Barbados is also home to
international competitions.
The constant strong winds of Aruba and Bonaire, any of the French islands
(sailboarding is particularly popular in France), and the British Virgin Islands
(steady breezes and numerous close islands make island-hopping by sailboard a
unique venture) are other destinations that stand out somewhat above others. A
number of guidebooks also point out Nevis as a hidden secret of calm water
and few crowds, ideal for beginners. Venezuelan Margarita Island, with the
same strong winds off the coast of South America as its neighbors, the ABCs,
could be considered another sleeper, not discovered by many Americans.
48
Sportfishing
On most islands, it is easy to charter a boat for a half or full day of
deep-sea fishing, but those dedicated to the sport will most likely
concentrate on the Northern Caribbean. The Bahamas, the Cayman
Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands in particular cater
to deep-sea fishing for marlin, sailfish, swordfish, barracuda, and others.
Palm trees, cliffs, and swirling seascapes greet golfers at some of the
worlds most beautiful courses. Some of the larger islands have resorts
that are particularly known for their spectacular and challenging
courses: El Conquistador outside of San Juan, Puerto Rico; Casa de
Campo in the Dominican Republic; and Tryall in Jamaica. On other
islands, clients can combine golf with a stay at a secluded getaway (such
as the Four Seasons Resort on Nevis).
Golf
Tennis
The destinations listed as tops for golf also boast the best in tennis
facilities, but almost every major resort in the Caribbean has tennis
courts. If tennis is one of your clients major interests, you should
check on how well the courts are maintained at each resort you consider, whether they are lighted for night play, and whether the resort has a
tennis pro on staff.
Specialty Niches
Ecotourism
Natures beauty can be appreciated on every island, but some are
particularly attractive to ecotourists. More than half of St. John in the
U.S. Virgin Islands is a national park. Because of its lack of beaches,
Dominica is less developed than other islands. But its jungle-like
interior boasts a bubbling volcano and pristine waterfalls, and the island
is perhaps the areas number-one destination for ecotravelers.
Part of Bonaire is a national park with wondrous bird life on land and
amazing marine life offshore. St. Lucias Pitons are large mountains
rising from the sea and covered in rich foliage. Tobago, Barbuda, and
Saba are pretty, natural islands that receive few tourists. But even the
larger, more-developed islands offer natural beauty: the rain forest in
Introduction
49
The Grenadines
Antigua
Jamaica
Bermuda
Dominican Republic
Puerto Rico
Jamaica
The Bahamas
Puerto Rico
Bermuda
Dominican Republic
50
Belize
Puerto Rico
Dominica
St. Lucia
Dominican Republic
Trinidad
Guadeloupe
Jamaica
The Yucatn
Martinique
jacaranda, and hibiscus are among the dozens of flowers that are as
beautiful as their names. Mangrove swamps and volcanic rain forests
hold species yet undiscovered.
Courtesy of
Cayman Isla
nds Departm
Explorin
ent of Tour
g on th
ism
e Caym
an Islan
ds
Other adventures await those who creatively seek them out. While most
travelers wait for stability to return or development to arrive, a few may
wish to see Montserrats erupting volcano firsthand. They also might
want to experience Haitis culture, track the jaguars of Belize, take a
mail boat to a Bahamian Out Island with few tourists, or visit the
Maroons in Jamaica.
Special-Occasion Travel
(Weddings, Honeymoons, or Anniversaries)
Introduction
51
couple and the place where they were married. Many couples come
alone for the ceremony, but others bring a coterie of well-wishers and
attendants, in effect creating a group movement. Check with island
tourist offices or their Web sites for information on this topic. Travel
counselors must not only put together a truly special trip package, but
also make sure the necessary legalities are followed, such as paperwork
and obtaining a marriage license within a certain time frame. To get
started, access the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Web site
at www.doitcaribbean.com and select Honeymoons and Weddings,
which lists fees and rules for each island. Their Caribbean Vacation
Planner also has a section on marriage requirements for each of
its destinations.
Travel counselors should also try to sell an anniversary trip to the
couple in following years. Promotion should begin in subtle ways
soon after the honeymoon. After six months, the subtlety can be
dropped. A trip to a new Caribbean destination, but similar to the one
they enjoyed, is a natural promotion for the following year. Some
couples may wish to repeat their trip to the same destination, but they
are the exception.
Anniversary trips need not be limited to wedding anniversaries.
Promoting birthday trips will produce business year-round. And whats
better than a long weekend in the Caribbean for someone who is hard
to shop for?
Island events are another occasion for specialized travel. If you review
the Celebrations and Special Events section for each island, you are
sure to find events that appeal to clients with particular interestsfrom
fishing tournaments to music festivals.
52
Gay Travel
The gay travel niche market, one of the fastest-growing markets in the
last 20 years, has been welcomed by many islands but has been discouraged by a few. Because island policies can change, we suggest that you
check gay-oriented guidebooks or online sources concerning current
policies or attitudes on different islands. Most of the all-inclusive couples-only resorts take only heterosexual couples.
Accessible Travel
When you reserve Caribbean travel for clients who need extra help
because of physical challenges, you should first request information
from tourist offices and then ask hotels and other providers specific
questions. Many of them are not equipped to handle these clients.
However, resorts and attractions in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands must conform with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Family Travel
Most Caribbean islands bill themselves as family destinations, and
rightly so. They offer varied and fun activities, in addition to sun, sand,
and sea. Rather than listing top family destinations, we present here a
few generalizations.
The choice of resort or hotel and its amenities is usually more important
than the island. You should find out if the resort has activities for children and a family-friendly reputation. Many of the all-inclusive chains
have properties specifically oriented to families. On the other hand,
some families may prefer condominium or villa accommodations and
want to plan their own activities.
As you learn the general ambiance of each island, you might decide that
the islands that strongly feature nightlife, golf, gourmet dining, and
other more adult activities are less appropriate for families. The same is
true for islands that are more romantic or sophisticated, or that cater
primarily to couples. Nonetheless, a lot of islands that meet those criteria
have wonderful resorts for families. Generally, the less-developed islands
or very quiet islands might be less desirable for the average family.
Some resorts go one step further in pampering the client and have either
added spa facilities or have been built initially along the spa concept.
Surveys show spas are one of the fastest-growing special interests in travel
and in the Caribbean in particular. They generally are all-inclusive and
upscale, making them especially attractive for the travel counselor to
specialize in. Their facilities can range from a massage and health club to
facilities for various baths, showers, wraps, therapies, exercises, and much
more. Spas are attractive to many types of clientele, but the typical spa
client is a middle-aged career woman with an income over $45,000.
Spas
Sandals Resorts and Spas are particularly well known and have three
locations, while the Ritz-Carlton has opened at least four spa resorts.
Spas are found on most of the islands, but Jamaica, St. Lucia, the
Bahamas, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have been among those in the
forefront of the trend.
Introduction
53
Sporting Activities
It needs to be reiterated that the sports that follow are available on
most of the islands in the Caribbean. Many clients will find facilities
and experiences on other islands to be on a par with those listed here.
That is especially true for water sports. That being said, some have
achieved more popularity or have been more fully developed in these
areas than others, and we present here the standouts:
Snorkeling
Scuba-diving
Bonaire
Cayman Islands
Cozumel
Sailing
Antigua
Out Islands of the Bahamas
The Grenadines
U.S. and British Virgin Islands
Windsurfing
Aruba
Barbados
Bonaire
British Virgin Islands
Dominican Republic
French islands
Margarita Island
Nevis
Sport Fishing
Puerto Rico
U.S. Virgin Islands
Golf
The Bahamas
Bermuda
Dominican Republic
Jamaica
Nevis
Puerto Rico
Tennis
Antigua
The Bahamas
Bermuda
Dominican Republic
Jamaica
Puerto Rico
U.S. Virgin Islands
Hiking
Dominica
Guadeloupe
Jamaica
Martinique
St. Lucia
Trinidad
54
www.fodors.com
www.lonelyplanet.com
www.desteo.com
www.ohgonline.com
www.checkstarfirst.com
www.cdc.gov
www.fco.gov.uk
www.dfat.gov.au
www.sath.org
www.travel-guide.com
www.worldtime.com
www.voltagevalet.com
Gives helpful information and answers questions about electricity and voltages in countries
around the world
Introduction
55
Profile
On the page opposite the profile, there is a map of each destination
indicating main places, airports, and attractions. Though not labeled as
such, the profile section strives to highlight the islands distinctive
qualities. There are many similarities among islands, but no two are
exactly alike. Each is a unique combination of topography, culture, and
activities. If you can distinguish among the various islands, you are well
on your way to selecting the right destinations for your clients. You
may not learn every distinction among the islands immediately; indeed,
you should return to the profile section time and time again. You can
add your own notes about the islands distinctive characteristics, either
from your own observations or from colleagues and clients.
Fast Facts
Fast Facts
56
Time Zone: Each islands time is given in two ways: (1) its relation
to Universal Time, Coordinated (UTC) and (2) its relation to
Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the United States. Because many
islands do not go on daylight-saving time, their time will correspond
to two different U.S. time zones, depending on the time of year.
Drive on: This category indicates on which side of the road
people drive.
Currency: The currency listed is the islands legal currency
(however, U.S. dollars are often accepted for a wide range of
transactions). No attempt is made to convert it to U.S. dollars, as
this rate is constantly fluctuating. For current rates, see the Web site
at www.xe.net/ucc. Some islands that formerly used European
currencies switched to the Euro in 2002.
Historical Background
The history of each island is kept to a minimum. The main focus is on
how the islands history differs from others in the region and on
aspects that greatly affect tourism today. This makes the History section in the Introduction even more important. It concentrates on the
similarities in the history of the entire Caribbean.
Introduction
57
Local Transportation
Almost all islands have taxis and rental cars, so this information is not
repeated for each island unless the situation is different (for example,
Bermuda has no car rentals). Read the Local Transportation section
in the course Introduction to get an overview. We highlight transportation that visitors, rather than local citizens, use.
58
To select the right accommodations for your clients, you should consult
other sources, such as the Official Hotel Guide, the Caribbean Hotel
Association Gold Book, tourist office references, guidebooks, and your
offices preferred trade manuals. Check on the condition of lodgings
after hurricanes, and note whether any hotel construction or major
renovation is being planned during your clients travel dates. (See the
Accommodations section on page 17 in the course Introduction for
further information.)
Island Culture
Many travelers go to the Caribbean for fun, sun, sand, and sea, and
not necessarily the culture and the people of the island. However, most
visitors will have at least a passing interest in their cultural surroundings.
The Island Culture section touches on aspects of language, ancestral
origin, religion, music, customs, food, the arts, sports, music, and other
topics. Although we do not cover each topic for every island, we point out
where these cultural elements are particularly noteworthy. (See the
Caribbean Culture section on page 30 in the course Introduction for
further information.)
Introduction
59
Cruise Call
The Cruise Call section indicates how popular the island is for
cruises, how far the sights are from the dock, and whether it is better
for clients to walk around on their own, take the ships tour, or hire a
taxi for their own tour. Vacationers who are staying on the island may
want to know how busy it is as a cruise port and what sights to avoid
when the masses descend on the port for their day trips.
60
Island Secret
The Island Secret section suggests a special place or insider secret to
share with a client at the right time. It might be a brand-new resort or
sight, an exceptional person, or an offshore cay that few know about.
Key Points
about (the Destination)
1.
2.
3.
4.
My Contact Information
Blank lines are left at the end of each chapter for you to write in e-mail
addresses you may obtain or your favorite Web sites.
There are many other Web sites besides the official ones created by the
tourist offices. Such Web sites provide details, current reports, and subjective analyses that are impossible to obtain elsewhere. But remember,
the information is only as good as its source. Internet sites dealing with
travel are awash with commercial sites touting their own hotels or services and enthusiastic amateurs reliving their dream trips. The Web site
of the local island newspaper is often a reliable way to learn about the
islands local scene and current events.
Introduction
61
THE ATLANTIC
NC
SC
Bermuda
GA
AT L A N T I C O C E A N
FL
Bahamas
Turks and
Caicos Islands
CARIBBEAN SEA
0
0
62
Miles
293
Kilometers 471
The Atlantic
Three island groups technically lie outside of the Caribbean Sea. They share
similar characteristics with islands in the Caribbean and are considered when
clients are choosing vacations to the region. From north to south, they are
Bermuda
63
BERMUDA
HAMILTON
PARISH
former
U.S. Naval
Air Station
Crystal
Caves Castle Harbour
St.
Davids
Head
ATLANTIC OCEAN
St. George
Somerset Village
National
Gallery
Bermuda Underwater
Exploration Institute
DEVONSHIRE
PARISH
Bermuda Aquarium,
Museum and Zoo
Tuckers Town
Natural Arches
SMITHS
PARISH
Verdmont
Hamilton
Hamilton Harbor
Botanical Gardens
PAGET
PARISH
SOUTHAMPTON
PARISH
WARWICK PARISH
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Horseshoe Bay
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Bermuda
64
Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
2.4
Kilometers 3.8
Bermuda
C
Fast Facts
Bermudas pink-sand beaches slip into azure waters, while pastel houses
with white roofs dot the green hillsides. The scent of aromatic oleander,
frangipani, bougainvillea, and hibiscus fills the air. This is an island paradise that speaks of honeymoons, romance, and past traditions. In addition, Bermuda is a well-planned, upscale communityone that strictly
controls its development. There are few areas of the island that are not
as pretty as the proverbial postcard. The number of cars, the extent of
new building, and the impact of cruise ships and their passengers are all
regulated. But the island offers extensive accommodation and dining
choices and every type of sporting opportunity.
Time Zone
UTC (Universal Time, Coordinated) -4 or
Atlantic Standard Time (AST) (EST +1).
It does observe daylight-saving time.
Bermudas location in the Atlantic also brings with it a somewhat different climate than the islands in the Caribbean. From April through
October, the summer weather is ideal, with highs in the 70s and 80s.
From November through March, the weather is spring-like. We provide
a climate chart on the next page.
Land Area
21 square miles
Population
58,500
Capital
Hamilton
Languages
English
Drive on
Left
Currency
The Bermuda dollar is pegged to the
U.S. dollar. This means that U.S. currency is accepted everywhere.
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as the
U.S.
65
Bermuda
Temperatures
Month
Average High
( Fahrenheit)
January
68
February
67
March
68
April
71
May
75
June
80
July
85
August
86
September
84
October
79
November
74
December
70
Historical Background
Centuries ago these islands were known as the Isles of Devils, as
hundreds of Spanish galleons and British ships were destroyed on the
rocks, reefs, and shoals that surround Bermuda. Shakespeare made use
of the islands infamy when he wrote The Tempest; his shipwrecked
characters wash up on an island modeled after Bermuda.
In keeping with form, the islands first colonists were shipwrecked passengers of the Sea Venture; the ship was headed for Virginia when it
foundered at sea during a storm in 1609. Though most of them
continued on to Virginia the following year (their history and that of
the Jamestown colony are intertwined), two stayed on and welcomed
60 English settlers in 1612. Later in the century, African slaves, North
American Indians, and Scottish and Irish prisoners were brought in.
Bermudians became well-to-do as plantation owners, as privateers during the American Civil War, and by being in the forefront of travel and
tourism for a century and a half. The Hamilton Hotel opened in 1863.
Mark Twain is reputed to be Bermudas first modern American tourist.
Bermudians helped introduce golf, tennis, and yacht-racing not only to
their own island but also to North America.
Bermuda received the right to self-government in 1684. As such, it is
the oldest British colony with a popularly elected House of Assembly.
66
Local Transportation
Bermudas transportation program is different from that of any other
destination in this book. Visitors are not permitted to rent cars. Even
Bermudian households are limited to one car. Instead, an excellent
system of public transportation and plenty of taxis are available to get
around the islands 21 square miles. Mopeds, bicycles, and walking are
other popular modes of transportation.
To get to their hotel from the airport, arriving visitors can take a taxi or
one of the airport buses and minivans (which carry 6 to 26 passengers);
the buses and minivans make a sweep of a number of lodging locales.
Once settled in a hotel, visitors often find that many sights, restaurants,
and activities are within walking distance. When they wish to see more
of the island, they can do so independently or take a tour. Bus tours of
the island are available year-round; taxi tours are another option.
For independent sightseers, Bermudas bus system is efficient and comprehensive, and covers all major routes on the island (tell clients to look
for the pink buses with blue stripes). If you look at a map of Bermuda,
you will understand why the bus system is supplemented by a ferry system. Ferries allow travelers to quickly get from one end of the fishhook to the other, avoiding long bus rides. The islands are divided into
14 bus zones. Exact change is necessary, but most tourists will want to
purchase tokens, books of bus tickets, or passes valid for several days.
The small ferries are good buys for both transportation and a seagoing
sightseeing experience.
Bikes and mopeds are other transportation options for an independent
tour of the island; they can be rented by the hour, day, or week. A
drivers license is not required for mopeds, but renters must be at least
16 years old. As mentioned in the Introduction, those renting mopeds
should be advised to exercise cautionroads are narrow, many are lined
by rock walls, traffic is heavy, and driving is on the left. Counselors
should also be cautious in recommending this mode of transport for
liability reasons. However, Bermuda is one of the most pleasant islands
for sightseeing by moped, especially for those who usually rent a car.
Operators are required to offer instructions, and renters should be
confident they know how to operate the motorbike before leaving.
Pedal bikes can be taken on ferries at no charge; mopeds will incur a fee.
Horse-drawn carriages are a pleasant and romantic way to see parts of
the island. Most of them congregate on Front Street in Hamilton near
the cruise-ship docks.
67
Tourism
partment of
Bermuda De
of
sy
te
ur
Co
Each of Bermudas nine parishes is packed with historic sights, art galleries, import shops, and scenic views of harbors, beaches, and pastelcolored cottages. Bermuda has a wealth of sights for an island its size.
We will touch on some of the highlights of the nine parishes, from
west to east.
hthouse
Hill Lig
s
b
ib
G
68
Warwick Parish: two fine golf courses; site of Bermudas first airport,
where seaplanes brought visitors from New York in the 1930s; cliffs
and beaches lining the south shore.
Paget Parish: the most desirable residential area (across the bay facing the capital); Botanical Gardens, one of Bermudas prime attractions, with an orchid house, fruit groves, formal gardens, and
Camden, the official residence of Bermudas premier; the forests and
swamps of Paget Marsh nature reserve; the many hotels along the
parishs posh south shore, including the 250-room Elbow Beach
Hotel, part high-rise and part cottage colony.
Pembroke Parish: Hamilton, the capital and the seat of island
government at Sessions House; City Hall, seat of city government,
with a theater, exhibition hall, and art gallery; Hamilton Harbor,
with its ferries, cargo liners, and cruise ships; the 443-room
Hamilton Princess resort, overlooking the harbor; the Birdcage,
where policemen choreograph the flow of traffic; Fort Hamilton;
the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, which sponsors the Newport-toBermuda race every other year.
Devonshire Parish: with Ariel Sands oceanfront cottage colony,
owned by actor Michael Douglas.
Smiths Parish: charming Flatts Village; Verdmont, a gracious
example of an original colonial Bermuda home.
Hamilton Parish: the Bermuda Aquarium, one of the islands top
tourist attractions; Blue Hole Hill, where Bermuda pottery is made;
the extensive cave systems of Crystal Caves; the 201-room Grotto
Bay Beach Resort and Tennis Club; the Swizzle Inn (see Island
Secret later).
St. Georges Parish: Kings Square in the city of St. George; the
forts surrounding St. George, the islands first capital; St. Peters
Church (originally built in 1617), the oldest Anglican church in the
Western Hemisphere; the Bermuda Trust Museum; the former
U.S. Naval Air Station; Lighthouse Hill; the Natural Arches;
Tuckers Town.
69
70
The waters around Bermuda are one of the islands most fascinating
sights. For almost 500 years, there have been shipwrecks off the island,
resulting in an undersea treasure of nautical history without equal. The
island offers the Bermuda Shipwreck Certificate Program whereby
clients dive with any of the islands five dive operators to one of 18
designated shipwreck sites and are awarded a certificate documenting
their dive.
Helmet diving, during which participants walk along the sandy bottom
about 15 feet deep and are fed air through their helmet, is popular.
Plenty of island cruises and glass-bottom boats navigate on top of the
water as well, and some visit a private island for picnics.
Golf, too, is special here. With eight golf courses, the island offers
more golf per square mile than any other island on earth. Golfers
shirts must have collars and sleeves; cut-off jeans and gym shorts are
prohibited, but Bermuda shorts are acceptable. With 80-plus tennis
courts, Bermuda gives tennis enthusiasts more than the average
opportunity for their sport.
Another special activity is hiking the Railway Trail. Bermuda once had
a railway running between St. Georges Parish on the eastern end of
the island and the village of Somerset to the west. Opened in 1931, it
had the reputation for being the most costly railway, per mile, ever
built and the slowest in construction, averaging two and a half miles
per year. Visitors loved the railway, with its first-class wicker chairs and
second-class benches from which they could view the entire island.
However, heavy use during World War II put it in dire condition. With
the coming of automobiles and buses to the island, the railway was dismantled and sold to Guyana.
In 1984 the government dedicated the lands of the old railway to the
public by formally opening the Railway Trail. Some of Bermudas
loveliest sightseeing can now be enjoyed from the deserted route. It
is usually a short walk from the trail to most of the sights mentioned
in Around the Island: Attractions. The trail follows the old railroad
track bed across the entire island except for one three-mile section
that has become a major road in Hamilton Parish. There are access
points for walkers, and parts of the trail can be used by those on
bicycles and motorbikes.
Bermudas accommodations can be special too. Besides the islands
largest resorts and its varied selection of inns, apartments, and guesthouses, it has an accommodation style that is uniquely Bermudian.
Cottage colonies consist of a main clubhouse with dining room,
lounge, and bar surrounded by cottage units spread over landscaped
grounds. Most have a kitchenette for beverages or snacks, but not for
complete meal preparation. These complexes all have a beach and/or a
pool and are considered in the first-class to luxury category.
Some of Bermudas most famed smaller posh resorts offer jazz
brunches, kayaking off their beaches, saunas, English pubs, verandahs
overlooking the water or gardens, and exquisitely groomed grounds.
These amenities, while certainly not unique to Bermuda, set a different
tone compared to most islands. Bermuda also has two private clubs in
the luxury category; both require introduction by a member in order
to stay there or use the facilities.
Visiting Bermuda is more like visiting a European culture, one that has
a lot in common with that of the United States. The sports, foods,
language, and even religious practices of Bermudians coincide closely
with what travelers experience during their stay. Although Bermudians
are aware of the paramount importance of tourism to their economy,
they act as equals in the exchange. They have refused to compromise
traditional values, tried-and-true customs, or the beauty of their island
for the sake of financial gain. Nonetheless, visitors are treated to the
natural friendliness of their Bermudian hosts.
Island Culture
One of Bermudas
newest sights is the
Bermuda Underwater
Exploration Institute,
which opened in July
1997. Wreck artifacts
and a magnificent shell
collection can be seen
along with exciting
exhibits that plumb the
mysteries of the ocean.
Bermudian culture retains many British customsEnglish pubs, afternoon tea, a good cricket match. Although dress during the day is casual, it is usually neat. Evening wear can be a bit dressier than Americans
are used to; men wear jackets and ties at most good restaurants.
Topless or nude bathing is neither legal nor tolerated. Visitors should
wear swimsuits and shorts only at the pool or beach, and should cover
up in hotel lobbies and local stores. Besides strong British and African
heritages, North American Indians, Portuguese, and other European
groups have influenced the culture. Caribbean styles, such as reggae
and calypso music, are also popular.
Seafood is the biggest influence on Bermudian cuisine. Rockfish, which
is similar to the ubiquitous grouper found in the Caribbean, is on most
menus, along with conch fritters, fish chowder (often laced with black
rum), and fish stew.
71
Notwithstanding
Bermudas somewhat
strict customs regarding beachwear, in the
summer it is not at all
unusual to see police,
mail carriers, and business people wearing
shortsBermuda
shorts, of course. They
must be no shorter
than a couple of inches
above the knee. British
troops are believed to
have begun the custom
100 years ago when
they arrived on the
island in summer.
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Cruise Call
Bermudas location and tourism policies make it a cruise port different
from any other in this text. Cruises generally depart from New York City
from April to October, spending a day at sea in each direction and four
or five days in Bermuda. Most ships dock at Hamilton, and may spend
some additional time at St. George on the eastern end of the island. This
gives clients plenty of time to see the many sights on the island, compared with what they see at most cruise ports. They have the time to
explore using any of the modes of transport mentioned in this chapter.
Bermuda allows a maximum of three or four ships in port at one time so
as not to distort the islands ambiance and strain its infrastructure.
Selling Bermuda
Bermuda can be a good sale year-roundif the right clients are chosen
for the right time of the year. The conventional warm-weather beachvacationer is best advised to visit during the summer season (May
through October). The pleasant spring-like temperatures during the
rest of the year are ideal for golf, tennis, hiking, and other activities.
The island holds themed events and cultural activities of a high caliber
during the cooler winter season, and hotel rates are discounted at the
very time they are at their peak in the Caribbean. In March and April,
Bermuda becomes a popular spring-break destination for thousands of
young people from the East Coast. The special events conducted by the
73
Island Secret
The rum swizzle is the drink to order while in Bermuda. Tradition says
it was invented at the Swizzle Inn. Tourists keen on made-in-Bermuda
products can purchase a bottle of Goslings Black Seal Rum and come
home with a recipe for the rum swizzle to evoke memories of their trip.
The same rum when mixed with ginger beer creates the Dark and
Stormy, a favorite drink throughout the island.
74
Courtesy of
Bermuda De
partment of
Tourism
St. Pet
ers Ch
urch
Bermuda has its own Bermuda Specialist program, which includes onisland training, seven of The Travel Institutes Continuing Education
Units, consumer referrals, and much more.
My Contact Information
75
Paradise Island
Cable Beach
West End
East End
Lucayan National Park
Nassau
Bay St.
Freeport
Lucaya
Walkers Cay
Little Abaco Island
Green Turtle Cay
Treasure Cay
Man-O-War Cay
Marsh Harbour
Hopetown
Elbow
Cay
Grand
Bahama Island
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Bimini Islands
Spanish Wells
Berry Islands
Harbour Island
Dunmore Town
Glass Window
Governors Harbour
New
Providence
Island
Eleuthera
Rock Sound
Cat Island
Sampson Cay
Staniel Cay
Great Guana Cay
Exuma Cays
Great Exuma Island
George Town
ATLANTIC OCEAN
San Salvador
Stocking Island
Andros
Island
Cat Cay
Long Island
Crooked Island
The Bahamas
Mayaguana
Island
Acklins Island
76
Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
76.5
Kilometers 123
The Bahamas
T
Fast Facts
Capital
Nassau, New Providence Island
In some ways, the Islands of the Bahamas are a microcosm of the entire
Caribbean, a mini-Caribbean of their own. Although the Bahamas
dont have strong French, Dutch, and Spanish heritages and dont have
huge volcanoes and mountain ranges, they are quite diverse in other
ways: they sport almost every water and beach activity; and visitors will
quickly discern differences in culture, language, and lifestyle on many
of the islands. Each island exudes its own personality: some islands have
strong African roots, while others show American cultural influences;
on some islands, the inhabitants are the descendants of New England
settlers, while others have Haitian immigrants who have been present
for little more than a decade. The Bahamas have some of the areas
biggest and most famous resorts, as well as quiet and peaceful islands
where visitors can room with a local family.
Drive on
Left
Land Area
5,380 square miles of land (100,000
square miles of land and water), divided
among 700 islands
Population
300,000
Languages
English
Time Zone
UTC -5 or Eastern Standard Time (EST).
They do observe daylight-saving time.
Currency
Bahamian dollar (equal to the U.S.
dollar)
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as the
U.S.
Historical Background
Most historians agree that it was a Bahamian island (probably San
Salvador) that one of Columbus sailors first saw on October 12,
1492. Columbus was captivated by its peaceful Lucayan peoples,
unending miles of beaches, and shallow, azure waters; however, he
soon left because the islands did not hold the gold and spices he was
77
78
ing north of Palm Beach to the eastern tip of Cuba. The most
well-known of these islands are: (1) Abaco, which has its own smaller
islands; (2) Bimini, just 48 miles from Ft. Lauderdale; (3) Eleuthera
and Harbour Island; (4) Andros, larger than all but four other islands
in the Caribbean, but less visited; and (5) Exuma, divided into two
major islands and more than 300 tiny cays and islets. Three of these
island-entities are also referred to in the plural (the Abacos, the
Exumas, and the Biminis) when one wishes to put emphasis on the
many islands that make up a group.
Travel counselors should become familiar with these and other Out
Islands, assuming they are already familiar with Freeport and Nassau.
Many clients have heard of the big two but may know little of the
special places on the other islands.
Grand Bahama Island and Nassau/Paradise Island welcome the big jets
from colder climes, while many of the major Out Islands have flights
from various Florida cities and the others have flights from Nassau.
Ocean travel from Palm Beach to Grand Bahama was afforded by a jetfoil service at the time of writing; the trip takes two hours each way
with two departures daily in each direction. Other ship lines have connected Miami and Ft. Lauderdale to Grand Bahama in the past. Be sure
to check at the time of booking.
Local Transportation
The two major destinations and all of the Out Islands have service from
Nassau on Bahamasair. However, clients who are visiting more than one
Out Island will most likely have to use Nassau as a hub. Depending on
the number of clients and their budget, charter planes are an option.
Private and charter aircraft are common means of transport.
The other method of public transportation between islands is by mail
boat. Mail boats primarily transport mail and cargo to the smaller islands
of the country, but they also provide Bahamians a means of transportation that is less expensive than flying. They are not built for passenger
comfort. Trips last from 4 to 18 hours, and the majority are overnight.
A cabin bunk costs only $5 to $10 extra, but many travelers prefer to lie
on deck. Crossings can be rough and the schedule is subject to change;
mail boats are for adventurous clients who have flexible plans and a
strong constitution. Mail boats generally leave from Nassau once a week.
Usually the traveler must return through Nassau, though there are a few
routes that make multiple stops at the southernmost islands.
Mail boats should not be confused with the small ferries and taxi-boats
79
that take people for short trips between nearby islands. The most popular are between
Nassau dock and Paradise Island. The trip takes just a couple of minutes and is most convenient for those who dont want to walk all the
way to the bridges or take a taxi.
Harbour Island and the northern tip of Eleuthera.
Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay on Great Abaco and Elbow Cay,
Man-O-War Cay, Great Guana Cay, and Green Turtle Cay.
The schedules of other ferries and taxi-boats are more informal, on an
as-needed basis.
Bus service runs the length of Grand Bahama Island but is somewhat
limited to and from the East End. Service between Freeport and
Lucaya is frequent. Jitneys serve all of New Providence Island and run
very frequently between Cable Beach and Nassau. On the Out Islands,
bus service is very limited and most travel is done by taxi, though bikes
and mopeds are other options on the Out Islands with less traffic. (See
further transportation notes under Selling the Bahamas.)
80
a road lined with conch shells, blowholes, and the yachts and schooners
sailing to and from Florida. The East End of the island is a much
longer section. Here the nature lover can indulge in hikes, caves, and
deserted beaches at Lucayan National Park or travel to the far tip of
the island and offshore cays. Those who enjoy botany will want to visit
the Garden of the Groves and the Rand Nature Center, which are
closer to Freeport. One operator conducts an adventure-safari tour of
the East End.
Most travelers stay in one of two major resort areas: Cable Beach, on
New Providence Island, and Paradise Island. Cable Beach begins
about three miles west of Nassau. This three-mile-long beach contains
five luxury-class, self-contained resorts, including the Crystal Palace
Casino, and a handful of other first-class to moderate hotels at its
fringe. Breezes and Sandals (the most deluxe resort in its chain) are two
all-inclusive resorts along Cable Beach, while the Marriott, Radisson,
and others are interconnected or within easy reach of one another, creating one continuous vacation strip. The airport is only minutes away
from the Cable Beach area.
The Bahamas prime attractions are its capital, Nassau, which was
founded in the late 1600s, connected by bridge to dazzling Paradise
Island, which was converted from a small island of backwater farms
into a tourist paradise. Nassau/Paradise Island boasts beaches, resorts,
casinos, shopping, and nightlife; but it also has historical attractions,
stately mansions, and colonial government buildings with an island
flavor (the Parliament Building is pink.).
Nassau/Paradise Island
81
82
been a mainstay for decades. A Holiday Inn has recently opened. Other
small budget properties and one or two very upscale hotels dot the side
streets and the shore leading toward Cable Beach.
A circle tour of New Providence takes about two hours (not counting
stops), but clients will want to make a leisurely day of it. Among the
most recognizable sights from videos and brochures are the marching
flamingos and lush foliage at Ardastra Gardens. Other botanical gardens, stately colonial homes, and beachscapes make for a beautiful
drive. A handful of other hotels, some very private and luxurious, are
situated around the island.
The Abacos
The Abacos, directly east of Palm Beach, Florida, are the northernmost
of the Out Islands. This 100-mile chain is ideal for most water sports,
but especially for sailing and yachting. The islands most special attributes, however, are the gem-like towns and differing histories of the little
islands off Great Abaco (AB uh ko) Island, the largest island. Some
islanders are still boatbuilders, following the tradition of the first settlers.
Because the islands are at the same latitude as southern Florida, you must
remember that they can get somewhat cool in the middle of winter.
Two of the three commercial airports are on Great Abaco, and one is
on Walkers Cay, a smaller cay at the northern tip of the chain.
Marsh Harbour on Great Abaco receives the most air traffic and is
the major sailing harbor in the islands. It can also be a base from which
to explore the marshes, bird and turtle habitats, and tiny fishing villages of the southern part of the island, as well as the towns and shores
of the northern part of the island and the highway bridge that leads to
Little Abaco Island. Hotels in Marsh Harbour tend to be small,
except for one or two, and are geared toward yachtsmen and the marina set. Beaches do not compare with others in the Bahamas, and the
town has a commercial feel, similar to a Florida town of 50 years ago.
Treasure Cay is 27 miles north of Marsh Harbour and also receives
flights from Nassau and Florida. Years ago, a natural sand bridge
connected Treasure Cay to Great Abaco, so it is not actually a separate island. It has one large resortTreasure Cay Hotel Resort &
Marinaand a few houses and commercial establishments. Treasure
Cay can also be used as a base to see the island or as a jumping-off
point to nearby cays. For some time, the resort complex boasted the
only major golf course in the Out Islands. There is now another
course at the new five-star resort on Exuma.
83
Great Guana Cay also has a tiny population descended from New
Englanders, and its houses, stores, and churches reflect their influence. The main attraction is its seven-mile-long beach,
which is used as a picnic getaway by day visitors from
Great Abaco and passing cruise ships as well. The cay has
two small resort hotels.
of the
Courtesy of The Islands
Tourism
Bahamas Ministry of
eet in New
Parliament Str
Plymouth
Green Turtle Cay vies with Elbow Cay as the most popular.
The town of New Plymouth has New England houses, pastel cottages, and colorful flower gardens with white picket
fences. The ambiance has an aesthetic serenity that has
changed little during the past 50 years; it reminds many visitors of the Key West of decades past. The Green Turtle Club
is one of the most well-known hostelries in the Bahamas;
there are also other inns and cottages. Closest access is by
ferry from Treasure Cay rather than Marsh Harbour.
Eleuthera
Eleuthera (ih LOO thuh ruh) is one island divided into three major
84
The Exumas
The Exumas, an archipelago of 365 islands, begin less than 40 miles
southeast of Nassau and stretch for 130 miles. Great Exuma
(eks ZOO muh) Island and Little Exuma Island, which are
connected by bridge, are accessible by flights into the capital, George
Town. Across from the capital is elongated Stocking Island. The protected water creates one of the Caribbeans most perfect harbors.
85
All other cays in the Exumas are visited by private vessels and tour
boats. The Exumas boast the natural enchantment of uninhabited isles,
wild beaches, secluded coves and harbors, and giant iguanas and exotic
birds, especially in Exuma Cays National Land and Sea Park. Besides
George Town, the two major islands have sleepy little towns that have
not lost their South Seas island character. The new Four Seasons
Resort, scheduled to open November 2001, is likely to rank as one of
the best in the Bahamas and perhaps all of the Caribbean. Staniel Cay
and Sampson Cay halfway up the archipelago have secluded hotel
resorts accessible only by boat and private aircraft.
George Washington,
who called the
Bahamas the isles of
perpetual June, was
one of the thousands
of prominent American
visitors to first enjoy
the islands His description stuck for many
years, and the islands
were often called the
Isles of June.
Almost 200 years later,
Ernest Hemingway
found a temporary
home in these islands
in the (Gulf) Stream,
. . . with the green
light of water over the
floury white sand
Bimini.
Andros Island
Andros (AN dross), the fifth-largest island in the Caribbean, lies just 30
miles west of Nassau and little more than 100 miles from Miami. It is
by far the largest of the Bahamian islands100 miles long and 40 miles
widebut much of it is unexplored. Deep channels cut the island into
three or four sections, and four airports support scheduled and private
or charter aircraft. The 140-mile-long Andros Barrier Reef is one of
the worlds largest and is popular almost exclusively with divers and
fishermen. The reef wall drops off thousands of feet into the TOTO
(Tongue of the Ocean) between the islands. Jacques Cousteau led a
major expedition to explore the islands unique geological formation of
underwater cave systems, called blue holes.
Many consider Andros the bonefishing capital of the world, though
other Bahamian islands might argue with that designation. Towns are
scattered along its east coast, while the interior and west coast are
largely forest and mangroves, lakes, and creeks. Adventurous travelers
will want to search for rare plants, animals, unexplored blue holes,
caves, and buried pirate treasure. Stops to see the creations at the
Androsia Batik Works and the unique straw basket crafts of the
Seminole Indians are also a must.
Bimini Islands
One of the smallest of the major Out Islands groups, the Biminis
(BIH mih neez) are also the closest to the United States, lying 50 miles
due east of Miami. Flight arrivals come mainly from Florida rather than
the rest of the Bahamas, but many visitors come by boat. Big-game
fishing in the Gulf Stream between Florida and the Bahamas provides
the island with its reputation as one of the prime fishing capitals of the
world. Many championship fishing tournaments are held during the
year. Another of the Biminis attractions is the cottage of Ernest
Hemingway, who made this his outpost in the 1930s; his memorabilia
are on display.
86
87
Island Culture
The people of the Bahamas are a mixture of descendants of 18th-century
American Loyalists, Bermudian pilgrims, and disenfranchised African
slaves and freemen. More than 98 percent of Bahamians are literate. The
proximity of the country to the United States has lent itself to important
economic, historical, and tourist ties between the two countries.
Bahamian people have an air of sophistication.
The Bahamian language is English, and the countrys British ties are
reflected in its architecture, in sports such as cricket, and in its dress,
religion, and customs. Bush medicine, much of it derived from
African traditions, is practiced on most islands. Use of indigenous
plants, such as aloe vera, has been shown to remedy many ailments.
88
89
Cruise Call
Nassau/Paradise Island is the most visited cruise port in the
Caribbean/Atlantic area. Several three- and four-day cruises out of
south Florida make it an overnight stop, adding to its carnival-like
atmosphere and great variety of shops, tours, and services.
Many longer-itinerary ships also stop here. Arrivals can walk
from the dock to almost all of Nassaus historic sites, the straw
market, and Bay Street shops. A taxi-boat takes them in
minutes to Paradise Island, where they can walk to the
Atlantis Hotel and Casino and to paradisiacal beaches.
Jitneys take them to the Cable Beach area.
urism
inistry of To
Bahamas M
e
th
of
s
The Island
ma
Courtesy of
d Baha
Gran
Marina,
90
Island; and the Bahamas of the Out Islands, with deserted beaches,
gingerbread buildings, and peaceful fishing settlements where the
arrival of the mail boat is the big event of the day.
Timid clients who are making their first trip into international waters will
feel quite at home on Cable Beach, Paradise Island, or Freeport/ Lucaya.
Classic honeymooners (including those on second honeymoons or
anniversary trips) will be in ecstasy at the right hotel on romantic
Harbour Island. However, many honeymooners dont fit the popular
image and will prefer the action of Nassau and Grand Bahama.
Nature lovers can find bird sanctuaries and national parks. About
the only travelers who should not be sent to the Bahamas are those
who have been there, done that and want something more exotic
(and refuse to consider the Out Islands), and those who want
mountain landscapes.
There are a number of islands in the Bahamas, but they are easily accessible. Clients staying on Paradise Island may appreciate your arranging a
seaplane flight from Ft. Lauderdale to Paradise Island if Ft. Lauderdale is
convenient. This avoids the longer transfer (sometimes in busy traffic) to
Paradise Island from Nassau International airport, and your clients will
feel as though they are landing in the backyard of their hotel. This flight
will launch a trip with the right touch, especially for long weekenders.
Check for services from other Florida cities at the time of booking.
The flight from Florida to North Eleuthera, taxi transfer to the dock,
taxi-boat to Harbour Island, and transfer to the hotel may sound like a
lot of movement, but it is all accomplished in minutes. The same can be
said for the Abacos with the right planning. Clients do not have to wait
for the scheduled ferrymany hotels will pick them up at the dock.
Island Secrets
The Islands of the Bahamas are alive with hidden gemscays to be
explored by rented boat; nature areas and bird sanctuaries; artists and
individualists who long ago shunned the busy commercialism of the big
city for a simpler, Gauguinesque life among the palms and local populace. One such person is Gloria Patience, the Shark Lady, who in her
early 80s was still welcoming visitors to her home in the Exumas. Her
home is an informal museum of island memorabilia, china, and miscellany made from the remains of the hundreds of sharks she has caught.
On the last Friday of each month, from January to August, the
Governor Generals wife hosts a People to People Tea Party at
91
1.
2.
3.
4.
Cable Beach
Atlantis Hotel
Out Islands
The Abacos: two major islands and five important cays
Harbour Island/Eleuthera
The Exumas
Andros Island
The Biminis
Other Out Islands
For those who want to be specialists in the Islands of the Bahamas, a
self-study guide and program are available. Call the Bahamas Tourism
Institute at 1-888-BTI-DESK for information.
92
My Contact Information
93
North
Caicos
Parrot Cay
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Pine Cay
Providenciales
(Provo)
Middle Caicos
East Caicos
West Caicos
CO
LU
MB
US
PA
SS
AG
E
CAICOS ISLANDS
South Caicos
Grand Turk
Cockburn Town
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Salt Cay
TURKS ISLANDS
Turks and
Caicos Islands
94
Capital
City or town
Attraction
Miles
15
Kilometers
24
Turks and
Caicos Islands
G
eographically, the Turks and Caicos (KAY kos) Islands (TCI) can
be considered an eastern extension of the chain of the Islands of
the Bahamas. They form a string of more than 40 islands and cays. The
islands ambiance and attitude are also an extension of the relaxed,
get-away-from-it-all mood of their neighbors, the Bahamian Out
Islands. However, thats where the similarities end. The Turks and
Caicos Islands have a different history, some very special, secluded
luxury resorts, and easy accessibility from Miami.
Fast Facts
The population is small, cruise ships dont call, and high-rises are
banned. Miles of sand and secluded beaches, coves, and cays,
surrounded by one of the longest coral reefs in the world, delight
adventuresome beachcombers, diving enthusiasts, and jet-setters alike.
Capital
Cockburn Town, Grand Turk
Historical Background
Recent theories and the pattern of Atlantic currents have fostered the
notion that it may have been one of the Turks and Caicos Islands that
Columbus first sighted in 1492. Regardless, the islands history was
similar to that of the Bahamas for the first few hundred years after
discovery. The islands were left alone except for the occasional Spanish
galleon, wrecked supply ship, or marauding pirate vessel. British
subjects, by way of Bermuda, began to colonize the islands in the late
1600s, bringing slaves to work the salt plantations and other
enterprises. As in the Bahamas, British Loyalists emigrated to the
islands during the American Revolution.
Land Area
166 square miles, divided among 5
major islands, 3 minor ones, and 40
small cays
Population
23,000
Languages
English
Time Zone
UTC -5 or EST. They do observe daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Left
Currency
U.S. dollar
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as the
U.S.
Unlike the Bahamas, however, the Turks and Caicos Islands endured
Spanish and French invasions until finally coming under British control
permanently in the late 1700s. They were made part of the Bahamas
and remained so for decades, but the government in Nassau rankled
these independent islanders, who felt little connection to their larger
and faraway neighbor. Because the Turks and Caicos Islands were on
the regular shipping route between Great Britain and Jamaica, Grand
Turk was often the first stop sailors made after their long Atlantic
95
voyage. This gave the islands more of an allegiance to Jamaica, and the
British eventually placed them under that islands jurisdiction in 1874.
When Jamaica became independent in 1962, the islands were put back
under loose Bahamian administration. But when the Bahamas gained
independence, TCI opted to remain a British Crown colony and later
became a dependent territory. The country is ruled by both a governor
appointed by the queen and its own elected constitutional ministers.
Tourism has only really begun to burgeon in the last few years, but the
islands hope to keep it under careful control.
Local Transportation
Though a few private bus lines operate, most travel is done by taxi,
rental car, motor scooter, or bike. The taxi fare from the airport to
hotels along the main beach is about $15. Private ferries sometimes run
between islands, but schedules change and clients will have to check
upon arrival. Otherwise, they will need to hire a private boat.
InterIsland, SkyKing, and Turks & Caicos Airways offer island-hopping
programs, which allow travelers to stop among the six major islands
overnight or even for a few hours at a much lower rate than if they paid
96
97
Middle Caicos, the largest island of TCI, has the most dramatic
scenery; but it is one of the least developed (with only 10 hotel rooms)
and least visited, with a population of just 275. However, many
consider it a worthy day trip just to see the Arawak and Lucayan
Indian artifacts and remains of huge Indian settlements. One recently
excavated site contains a Lucayan ball court, unknown elsewhere in the
islands. Visitors will also want to see the remains of Loyalist
plantations and numerous marshes and inlets that serve as havens for
tropical birds. Limestone cliffs and large caves wait to be explored.
South Caicos offers some of the best diving and snorkeling, as well as
miles of deserted and idyllic beaches. The island is the fishing capital of
TCI, with the harvesting of conch, lobster, and other seafood as its main
industry. Three lodgings, one with 24 rooms, offer accommodations.
The Turks
Grand Turk contains the capital, Cockburn Town, and as such is the
commercial and historical center of the islands. It has the secondhighest population after Provo. A number of 18th- and 19th-century
landmark buildings recall the architecture of the Bermudians who came
here during the 1700s. Artifacts of the original Indians also lie scattered about the island. Hundreds of donkeys once roamed the island,
causing amusing havoc. Most are now in an animal refuge, but some
are still free to uphold the old traditions. A dozen small hotels, guesthouses, and apartments cater mainly to the diving crowd, rather than
the conventional resort vacationer.
Salt Cay, just south of Grand Turk, once produced the mainstay of the
countrys economy, salt. A handful of two- to eight-room inns are
available for real getaways.
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In 1992 the government set aside 33 specific protected areas covering 325
square miles of land and sea, including turtle breeding grounds, seabird
sanctuaries, and ecologically essential wetlands. From January to March,
thousands of humpback whales cross the Columbus Passage between the
two island groups. Deep-sea fishing and bonefishing are excellent.
Visitors can tour the main islands by boat or taxi and can tour the
uninhabited cays by catamaran or other boat. Most would consider a
stay on Provo incomplete without one or two boat trips to nearby islets.
Many of the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands are descendants of
Africans brought here by Bermudian salt-rakers. More recently,
American, British, and European tourists are discovering the islands.
Cross-cultural influences are evident: driving is on the left, but the official
currency is the U.S. dollar.
Island Culture
A Sailing Regatta is held the last weekend in May, and the Cactus Fest
takes place late August/early September.
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hotels and bars and at the Allegro hotel casino. Those who want more
action can pay to play (and eat and drink) for an evening at the allinclusive Breezes or Club Med.
Cruise Call
Major cruise ships do not call at TCI, which suits the country just fine.
However, a number of live-aboard dive boats are headquartered at
Grand Turk and Providenciales. Accommodating 14 to 20 passengers,
they spend a week cruising the islands and offer up to five dives a day.
Island Secret
The Turks and Caicos Islands are loaded with hideaways that the
average traveler does not know about. This is, in a sense, the essence of
the destinationfinding a spot away from it all. Salt Cay provides perhaps one of the most interesting links to a simpler time. Salt production was halted only in the early 1960s when Jamaican ties were severed. When the industry stopped, everything was left as it was, frozen
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1.
2.
3.
4.
Diving
Peace, relaxation, exclusivity
My Contact Information
101
JAMAICA
CARIBBEAN SEA
HAITI
AT L A N T I C O C E A N
PUERTO
RICO
U.S. VIRGIN
ISLANDS
BRITISH VIRGIN
ISLANDS
NORTHERN CARIBBEAN
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Miles
152
Kilometers 245
Northern Caribbean
The northern Caribbean is close to the southern part of the United States
and easy to get to. It consists of the four major islands of the Greater Antilles
and two nearby smaller island groups. Cuba is not covered in the main part
of the text, but general information is given in the last unit.
Seven-day cruises from Florida ports often stop at these islands. Many cruise
lines add an itinerary with the designation Western Caribbean, which usually
combines the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and one other port of call with the
Yucatn Coast of Mexico (Cancn or Cozumel). This course, however, places
the Cayman Islands and Jamaica in this Northern Caribbean section, and
Cancn and Cozumel, Mexico, in the last section called Western Caribbean
and the Coast of Latin America.
From west to east, the island chapters are
Cayman Islands
Jamaica
Haiti
Dominican Republic
Puerto Rico
Northern Caribbean
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The Bluff
Cayman Brac
CARIBBEAN SEA
Little Cayman
CAYMAN ISLANDS
Grand Cayman
CARIBBEAN SEA
Turtle Farm
Hell
Seven
Grand Cayman
Mile
Beach
East End
George Town
Queen Elizabeths
Botanic Park
CARIBBEAN SEA
Caymans
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Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
3.6
Kilometers 5.8
Cayman Islands
T
ranslucent water, abundant marine life, fascinating shipwrecks, winding sea tunnels, and a brilliantly colored reef wall plunging to depths
of 6,000 feet make the Cayman Islands an underwater paradise, one that
woos and challenges experienced divers and beginners alike. A sophisticated tourism and diving infrastructure adds to the islands appeal. In
fact, the Caymans are one of the Caribbeans top diving destinations,
with one-third of the arrivals being underwater devotees. But the islands
perfect beaches, the availability of every type of water and sand sport, and
their modern, first-class resorts bring plenty of other visitors.
And then there are the banks, 571 of them at last count. Trusts
handling American, Canadian, and worldwide financial operations for
more than 45,000 companies and individuals flourish due to the
islands permissive tax and regulatory policies. The islands rank in the
top 10 among the worlds financial centers. This translates into a large
amount of travel being done for business purposes, though its usually
combined with pleasure as well. More important to the leisure traveler
is that the islands high standard of living also means high standards of
service and amenitieswith prices to match. The Cayman Islands are
not geared to the budget traveler.
Land Area
103 square miles
Grand Cayman: 78 square miles
Cayman Brac: 15 square miles
Little Cayman: 10 square miles
Cayman Islanders are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and
crime is very low (on the two smaller islands it is almost nonexistent).
Using the same common sense they would at home, visitors can walk
about at almost any time of day or night and feel safe. The great
disparity of rich and poor found in many other places is far less noticeable here. Lifestyles are akin to that of an affluent Florida key or the
suburb of a big American cityincluding satellite dishes and cell
phoneswith the added bonuses of a seven-mile-long beach and
turquoise waters.
Languages
English
Historical Background
Due to the Cayman Islands relatively small size and somewhat isolated
location, they were uninhabited when Columbus first arrived, and were
not deemed as important as other islands. The vast numbers of turtles
in surrounding waters led the Discoverer to first name the islands Las
Tortugas (the Turtles). Great plantations were not established, and
Fast Facts
Population
40,000
Capital
George Town, Grand Cayman
Time Zone
UTC -5 or EST. They do not observe
daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Left
Currency
Cayman dollar. The Cayman dollar is
worth approximately $1.25 in U.S.
dollars (USD). Turning that around,
$1.00 USD is worth 80 Cayman cents.
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
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thousands of slaves were not brought here because of lack of good agricultural land. Deserters from Cromwells army in England, shipwrecked
and marooned sailors, pirates, and escaped slaves from Jamaica made up
the early population. Henry Morgan, Blackbeard, Calico Jack, and Neal
Walker were among the famous pirate visitors. Rumors persist that
pirate treasure is still buried in the caves on Cayman Brac.
Spain ceded the islands to England in 1670 at the same time as
Jamaica, and in 1863 they were annexed to Jamaica. When Jamaica
sought its independence in 1962, the Cayman Islands separated from it
and decided to remain a Crown colony of Great Britain.
Local Transportation
A scheduled minibus service goes up and down the beach and to the
East End of Grand Cayman. Those renting cars are charged a fee
(about $7.50 in the past) for a Cayman drivers license, in addition to
the regular rental fees and taxes. Renting motor scooters and bikes may
be safer here than at other destinations. The 150-passenger Rum
Pointer Ferry operates several times daily from the dock of the Hyatt
Regency on Seven Mile Beach to Rum Point, which is midpoint on the
north coast.
Island Air has three flights a day from Grand Cayman to Little
Cayman and Cayman Brac, a 40-minute trip. Check for schedules on
Cayman Airways also. The flight between the two small islands takes
about 10 minutes.
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Cayman Isla
nds
Turtle F
a
Departmen
t of Tourism
rm
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t of Tourism
Departmen
nds
Cayman Isla
Courtesy of
Seven Mile Beach harbors more than 50 hotels and condominiums, ranging from the Marriott, Westin, Hyatt
s
t. Jame
Pedro S
Regency, and Treasure Island resorts (each in the neighborhood of 300 rooms) to two- and three-unit villas.
More intimate and deluxe properties also share the beach. Almost half
of the islands rooms are villas or condominiums, which are perfect for
families, those on a budget, or those who are staying for a week or
more. Many of the hotels offer dive packages. Lodgings off the beach,
near or in George Town, cater to divers on a limited budget.
Courtesy of
Cayman Isla
nds
Departmen
t of Tourism
Cayman Brac
The Blu
ff
New nature sites, unveiled in the late 1990s and early 2000s, include
hiking trails, woodland walks, boardwalks out to wetlands, panoramic
overviews, and pristine beach locations. Adventurers can explore the
many caves that honeycomb the limestone by climbing over jagged
rocks. There are no actual towns on the Brac (population
approximately 1,600), but the islanders do congregate in two island
communities. Most visitors come to enjoy the water sports, relax, hike
the beaches, and bird-watch.
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Little Cayman
Lying about five miles west of Cayman Brac, Little Cayman is the
smaller of the two. Its few small hotels and population of about 120
provide an even more intimate atmosphere than Cayman Brac, if that is
possible. The only bars and restaurants are at the islands hotels.
Isolated beaches and lagoons and a large natural bird sanctuary are
Little Caymans main attractions, besides its legendary diving.
Because they lie toward the northern part of the Caribbean and close
to the large shoals around Cuba, the Cayman Islands have become a
great sportfishing area in the last few years; this activity will no doubt
continue to grow in popularity. In the spring, a fishing tournament
offers six-figure rewards for expert (and lucky) anglers. Grand Cayman
also boasts three major golf courses, one designed by Jack Nicklaus.
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Island Culture
The indigenous population is of Scottish, Welsh, English, and AfricanJamaican descent, but a third of all residents are now noncitizens who
originate from all over the world. The lilt of the local English dialect
reflects this ethnic mixture. British cultural proclivities have always
dominated, but North American influences have become considerable
and have been increasing each year.
Turtle soup, stew, and steak are the islands most well-known special dishes, though they may not be available at all times of the year.
The original Caymanians lacked the export income to pay for
imported foods, because the plantation system was never very
strong here. Gastronomically, this was fortunate in that they did not
rely on European meats; instead they ate more local foods than
most Caribbean islanders and thereby developed a diverse cuisine.
Seafood and conch are served plain or Cayman style, with peppers,
onions, and tomatoes.
By asking around, diners will occasionally find traditional dishes such as
fish tea (a type of bouillabaisse), accompaniments such as breadfruit
and yams, and cassava, which goes into both stews and cakes. If you
look closely, youll notice the spices and jerk influence of Jamaican
cooking on the cuisine of these islands. Diners can feast on a meal of
coconut shrimp or conch chowder, followed by turtle steak or jerked
meat and vegetable, and finished off with heavy cake. All this can be
accompanied by a Stingray Beer from the local brewery.
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Cruise Call
On average, two to three cruise ships a day call at Grand Cayman during
the high season. To ensure that the greater George Town area is not
adversely affected, the island allows only 5,500 to 6,000 cruise-ship
passengers to visit per day. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are the
busiest. Most ships tenders take passengers to George Town; from
there, they can easily walk around the town or go shopping. The standard island tour covers Seven Mile Beach, Hell, the Turtle Farm, and
perhaps one or two other highlights mentioned previously. Other trips
visit Stingray City or challenging dive spots. The islands many hotels,
welcoming attitude, snorkeling and diving opportunities, and advanced
infrastructure (shops, taxis, minivans, good roads) make it quite popular.
Because Grand Cayman has short distances and reliable taxis, visitors
can hire a driver and do their own tour. Many arrivals will want to
enjoy Seven Mile Beach and the facilities of one of the resort hotels.
Diving, snorkeling, submarine, and glass-bottom-boat tours complete
the offerings. Those who want an ecological hike or wish to partake of
the old island atmosphere should head for the East End.
Guests tend to take most of their meals at the many hotels along Seven
Mile Beach, but a variety of other restaurants offer somewhat more
adventurous island and ethnic fare. Dining establishments try to gear
their cuisines to standard American and European tastes, with numerous local touches and flavors. Diners can also find Italian dishes, fajitas,
and British pub-style food.
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If you want to cater to the niche market of serious divers, you need to
learn a bit more about this specialty. Review the scuba-diving
information under Specialty Niches in the Introduction. Ask the
Cayman Islands Department of Tourism for special brochures,
particularly Snorkeling Guide and Dive Guide. For divers on a
budget, look for groups formed to share condominiums and
apartments; this will bring down the cost.
For clients who have never dived before, the Caymans are one of the
best places to learn this activity. If you learn along with them, you will
keep them coming back in the future. The Cayman Islands Department
of Tourism likes to make the point that scuba-diving is no longer just
the province of the young and strong; entire families now participate in
this water sport.
Obviously, divers are one of the major Cayman market segments. But
keep in mind that a majority of arrivals are not divers. The Cayman
Islands are a quintessentially Caribbean destination, with sand, sun, and
sea and little or no hassle. Vacationers looking for beaches and water
sports, and who want a clean Caribbean environment to relax in,
unmarred by poverty or vendors at every turn, will enjoy these islands.
Less confident vacationers, who perhaps should be warned off some of
the poorer, more culturally diverse islands, will probably feel quite
comfortable here. Visitors will find quality hotel entertainment and fine
dining (at a substantial price). Besides the diving and deep-sea fishing,
seclusion is the watchword for the two smaller islands.
Those who prefer an exotic island culture, who need a more varied
landscape, or who become bored with the beach-resort culture after a
few days (and who do not dive) may get restless; however, they can
visit Cayman Brac for a look at a slightly different topography.
Island Secret
Those who truly want to get away from it all might enjoy a picnic on
Owen Island, which lies a few hundred yards off already secluded Little
Cayman. A rowboat available on Little Cayman will get them to this
islet. Another secluded spot on the littlest Cayman is South Hole Sound
Lagoon, where swimmers can often take a dip all by themselves.
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2.
3.
4.
My Contact Information
113
CARIBBEAN SEA
Rose Hall Plantation
Falmouth
Greenwood
Montego Bay
Seven Mile Beach
Negril
Runaway Bay
Cockpit
Country
Blue M
ounta
ins
Kingston
de
Spanish Town
n
Gra
Rio
Mandeville
Port Antonio
Port Royal
JAMAICA
CARIBBEAN SEA
Jamaica
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Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
27.2
Kilometers 43.8
Jamaica
C
Fast Facts
Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and almost the size
of Connecticut. Jamaica offers the visitor a wide variety of vacation
options, and the right choice can make all the difference: the colonial
affluence of Port Antonio, the lushness of Ocho Rios, the variety of
Montego Bay, and the hedonism of Negril, to name some of the more
popular choices. The ecotraveler and the culture buff can venture farther
into the interior.
Time Zone
UTC -5 or EST. It does not observe daylight-saving time.
Historical Background
Land Area
4,411 square miles
Population
2.5 million
Capital
Kingston
Languages
English, Jamaican Creole
Drive on
Left
Currency
Jamaican dollar
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
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Local Transportation
Most U.S. visitors dont tour Jamaica. Its too big. They get a transfer (usually by minivan or small bus) that is provided in their package
or can easily be arranged ahead of time, and then stay put at their
chosen resort area. From there they take local tours, raft trips, or the
Appleton Express tourist train trip at Montego Bay, or rent a bike
(especially in Negril). Otherwise they can taxi into town and back
fares are set from point to point but should be agreed upon in advance.
Renting a car to see the interior or southern parts of the island is for
the more adventurous: driving is on the left; roads are in different
stages of repair and are winding and narrow in the mountains; travel
times can be relatively long; and gasoline is expensive. However, the
experience is quite fascinating for the right traveler, as the people are
very gregarious and the culture, exceptional.
The cost of a car rental is quite high. Some clients (especially two
couples) may prefer a weeks car rental if they want to make extensive
excursions along the northern coast or into the interior. If they are
staying outside of the Montego Bay area, the cost savings of transfers
to and from Negril, Ocho Rios or other resorts can pay for a good part
of the rental. Most travelers, however, tend to stay at one resort and
are better off with transfers and taxis; this is particularly true for those
staying at all-inclusives.
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For some, this drive can be a long, hot, and bumpy start to a vacation;
but for most of those headed for Negril, the music, free rum drinks at
the airport, and the tropical atmosphere make the ride worth the trip.
Larger resorts have their own vans, while other services meet all flights.
Those traveling independently should arrange for their return to the
airport ahead of time.
The closest thing to a tourist sight in Negril, besides the Seven-Mile
Beach, is Ricks Caf, for years the in place to watch the sun set over
a rum drink or Jamaican Red Stripe beer. Nightlife is divided between
the shows and parties of the all-inclusive compounds and the simpler
local bars, discothques, and outdoor reggae clubs, some of which are
near the beach.
All-inclusives receive the bulk of visitors. Hedonism II was one of the
first in the area with the concept. Today some of the other big names
are the deluxe Grand Lido, Swept Away, Sandals Negril, and Beaches
Negril. Those who like the concept, but prefer vacationing with 60
rather than 600 fellow guests, can choose among a few smaller allinclusive hotels (30 rooms or so). Be sure to check whether a particular
all-inclusive caters to singles or is for couples only. The names of some
of the more intimate hotels such as Tree House and Rock Cliff reflect
their locations and atmosphere.
Montego Bay
urist Board
Jamaica To
Courtesy of
tation
all Plan
Rose H
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The key sight in the area is Rose Hall Plantation, the most
well-known great house in Jamaica and one of the best known
in the Caribbean. It was built by a wealthy British planter,
John Palmer, in the late 1770s. The plantation has been the
subject of legends and tales of witchcraft. One such story
involves Palmers descendant, Annie Palmer, who supposedly
took slaves as lovers and husbands, all of whom were mysteriously murdered soon after Annie tired of them. Rose Hall
has been the setting for a number of gothic novels and
remains haunted, according to many reports. Greenwood
is an even more elegant plantation house, lying on a hillside
Montego Bay offers the largest diversity of hotels in Jamaica. The main
decision to make here is hotel location and how much urban environment and atmosphere your clients might enjoy. Some hotels are on
beautiful beaches a few miles out of town. Others are on Doctors Cave
Beach in the heart of both tourist and local action. Some villas and small
hotels are on hills overlooking the shoreline or city. A sample of accommodation choices includes all-inclusives such as Sandals (there are three
in the area) and Breezes; exclusive resorts such as Round Hill and Tryall,
situated on former plantation land near the sea; and the new 430-room
Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, which opened in 2000.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios (O cho REE os) is about a two-hour drive from Montego Bay.
As travelers approach the area, the Jamaican countryside becomes more
and more lush. Hills overlook beautiful Turtle Bay, which is surrounded
by reefs. Even the hotels in the heart of the city are on lovely beaches.
Nevertheless, other hotels, condominiums, and villas are spread out
along beaches farther east for those who want more seclusion.
Brochure photographs hardly do justice to the stunning sight of
Dunns River Falls. Few people come away disappointed with the falls
of cold, clear mountain water splashing over stone ledges and steps into
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Hayes
Dannielle B.
Courtesy of
Port Antonio
Accessibility, or lack of it, helps define the appeal of Port Antonio. It lies
on the northeastern coast, an hour and a half from Ocho Rios, and is
built around two harbors. Port Antonio is actually closer to Kingston
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than to Montego Bay; however, for the average visitor, the transfer from
either is too long. Thus, Port Antonio, which began as a mecca of
wealthy royalty and Hollywood superstars such as Errol Flynn, retains its
exclusive appeal today. Most visitors fly in from Kingston by TransJamaican, the interisland carrier, or come by private jet or helicopter. The
town itself is much more peaceful than its sister resort towns to the west.
Port Antonio will appeal to travelers who want a special and more private
location and are willing to spend some time and money to get there.
A must-do activity, especially for those on a secluded honeymoon, is a
raft trip down the Rio Grande. The bamboo rafts, originally used to
transport bananas, are fitted with seats for two (supposedly the idea came
from Errol Flynn). A raftsman poles the craft down the river on a threehour trip, while water splashes and cascades over the passengers, who can
either sit or lie on the raft; when the sun becomes too hot, they can even
slip over the side into the cool river. The raftsman will make stops for a
swim, photographs, or a picnic. Those staying in Ocho Rios can visit
Port Antonio for a day to take the raft trip as well as explore the town.
Port Antonio has fewer hotels than other resort areas, but there is at
least one in each category, including the elegant Trident Villas and the
very private Fern Hill Club, which evokes the Jamaica of a century ago
(with a clubhouse, villas, and no air-conditioning). Many of the wealthiest visitors have their own villas.
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Top Kingston hotels have many resort amenities, but beaches are a
good distance away. Visitors will need to ask which sections of the city
are unsafe, especially at night.
Travelers can gain further insight into the nation by visiting smaller and
more manageable cities, such as Spanish Town (the original capital)
and Mandeville. Journeys into Cockpit Country to see the remaining
towns of the Maroons and into the Blue Mountains will reward
travelers with some of the best coffee in the world, cave tours, lush
flora and birds, and challenging hikes.
Island Culture
Jamaicas cultural influences are as strong as any in the Caribbean. In
terms of music, only Trinidad rivals Jamaica. Reggae music originated
in Jamaica and is known throughout the world; its icon, Bob Marley,
who died in 1981, is still one of the most internationally famous names
in popular music. But reggae is not Jamaicas only claim to fame. Many
styles, such as calypso and soca (a combination of soul and calypso),
first took off in Trinidad and then influenced Jamaican music,
developing into rock steady, ska, and finally reggae.
Reggae embodies more than just music. Its lyrics are almost always
political and religious in nature. Bob Marley and many other reggae
musicians were or are Rastafarians, a religious sect that evokes a
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As you might expect, many of the islands top events center around
reggae and other musical forms. A sampling includes the Air Jamaica
Jazz and Blues Festival in January, an island-wide Celebrating Bob
Marley festival in February, the Ocho Rios Jazz Festival in June, and
the Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay in August.
Carnival is not a centuries-old tradition as on other islands but has
only come into its own in the last ten years. Held in Kingston and
Ocho Rios around Easter, Carnival features some of the best bands
from Jamaica, Trinidad, and other islands, and even some of the costumes from Trinidads famous Carnival.
Other events capitalize on Jamaicas popularity with the physically fit: an
annual marathon (in Kingston), a triathlon (at Treasure Beach), and a
mountain-bike festival (in Negril). One of the top historic events is the
Accompong Maroon Festival, which dates back to the 19th century.
Cruise Call
Both Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are ports of call for Caribbean
cruises. In the past 10 years, a larger number of ships have gravitated to
Ocho Rios. Montego Bay proper is a short taxi ride from the cruise
dock, while Ocho Rioss main area and beaches are a short walk from
the dock.
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Pampered cruise passengers who suddenly step into a culture they are
not familiar with may misunderstand vendors aggressive sales
techniques. Hawkers will vigorously try to sell arrivals anything
Jamaican, and a few things that arent. Some pretrip discussion of what
to expect will help to prepare travelers. Many cruisegoers will prefer an
organized tour to Dunns River Falls near Ocho Rios, rafting on the
Martha Brae River in Montego Bay, or visiting one of the plantation
great houses, rather than wandering the town or touring on their own.
More experienced travelers can shop on their own or go to the beaches
of the main hotels at Ocho Rios or Doctors Cave Beach at Montego
Bay. Cruisegoers who want to enjoy the beaches or facilities at the
all-inclusives should call ahead.
Selling Jamaica
The all-inclusive is king in Jamaica. These resorts draw clients during
various stages of their lives. Some clubs cater to singles, others to couples, and still others to families with children. They will even be glad to
host a wedding (presumably at one of the couples-only clubs). Resorts
range from moderate to deluxe in price and amenities.
From the agents standpoint, selling an all-inclusive is similar to selling
a cruise. One package price includes almost everything, and its all
commissionable. However, unlike cruise ships, the price for allinclusives usually covers all beverages, which are therefore commissionable. Prices at all-inclusives do average slightly more than the average
cruise because there isnt as much discounting. Just as the cruise lines
have long advertised themselves as floating resorts, the all-inclusives
have turned the tables and advertised themselves as land-based cruises.
Paradoxically, clients who avoid all-inclusives are also prime candidates
for Jamaica. Travelers who want to be part of a vibrant local scene will
find few other islands better suited to them. Furthermore, it is good to
remember that Jamaica was welcoming tourists long before most other
islands were. It still has elegant lodgings in lush settings that attracted
special travelers even before the days of Noel Coward and Ian Fleming.
At the same time, Jamaica remains one of the Caribbeans most controversial destinations. Strong educational and informational programs
have been established to demonstrate the economic importance of
tourism to the island; but petty hassles, aggressive vendors, and widespread soft drugs lead to fear on the part of less-experienced tourists
and an intense dislike for the country on the part of some conservative
travelers. Some cruise passengers do not bother to alight at Jamaican
ports; and some guests at all-inclusives venture out of their compounds
once and vow not to do so again.
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Few visitors are neutral about their experiences here. Jamaica gives
many travelers rewards that can be matched by few other Caribbean
destinations. It welcomes almost as many American tourists annually as
the Bahamas or Puerto Rico, and receives far more American visitors
than Bermuda, Aruba, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, sending
the wrong client to Jamaica can also be a bigger mistake here than
anywhere else.
Young, fashionable, urban Americans; middle-class suburbanites who
follow urban trends; young to middle-aged couples desiring the pursuit
of pleasure with a touch of the exotic; those who are just graduating to
the next step beyond the college spring-break experience; middle-class
to affluent families with small children, who want activities for the kids
while the parents dance and dine nearbythese are just some of the
markets for Jamaica.
Demanding clients who want everything to run like clockwork, and
conservative clients who are easily annoyed by street vendors and
inquisitive locals, might not be good candidates for Jamaica.
Island Secret
H.E.A.R.T. (Human Employment and Resort Training) Academy is a
20-room inn-resort on a hill overlooking Runaway Bay on the
Caribbean. The inn and its restaurant are staffed by students who will
enter Jamaicas hotel and tourism industry, as well as their professional
instructors. Rates are very reasonable, the staff is eager to please, and the
cuisine is exceptional. Unlimited complimentary golf at a nearby course
is one of its listed amenities. Any vacationing travel industry or hotel
employee will definitely want to visit H.E.A.R.T., but for the right
client, it may also be just the spot for a few days of relaxation. Be sure to
reserve ahead for a meal if clients are not staying as overnight guests.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Montego Bay
Ocho Rios
Negril
Port Antonio
Culture and music
All-inclusive resorts
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My Contact Information
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ATLANTIC OCEAN
le de la Tortue
Cap
Hatien
Milot
Citadelle/
Sans Souci
Cte des Arcadins
HAITI
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Port-au-Prince
le de la Gonve
Ptionville
Jacmel
CARIBBEAN SEA
Haiti
128
Capital
City or town
Attraction
Miles
59
Kilometers
95
Haiti
H
Fast Facts
Land Area
10,714 square miles
Population
7.5 million
Capital
Port-au-Prince
Languages
French, Creole
Time Zone
UTC -5 or EST. It does not observe daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Right
Currency
Gourde (G)
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
Historical Background
The Spanish controlled Hispaniola from the moment Columbus landed
on his first voyage. However, after their more lucrative conquests in
Mexico and Peru, they neglected it, allowing French pirates and eventually Louis XIV, king of France, to place the territory under French
control. For a while it was the richest colony in Frances empire.
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Even in the 1970s and early 1980s, when there were more visitors,
tourism tended to be in small enclaves or self-contained resorts,
primarily because much of Haiti had little infrastructure. Nonetheless,
excursions to the rest of the country were fascinating and rewarding, as
well as safe. Visitors could enjoy excellent French-Creole cuisine,
spectacularly colorful artwork and crafts, an exotic culture, and the
friendly nature of the Haitian people.
Much of the interior of Haiti is rugged and mountainous. On the
whole, Haitis beaches do not compare with those on other islands.
Many have dark volcanic sand. But there are nice ones scattered along
the south coast, the southern peninsula, along the coast north of
Port-au-Prince, and along the north coast; and it takes only one nice
beach to make a vacation. An admission fee is charged at those owned
by a hotel or developed by a cruise ship company.
Port-au-Prince and its pretty suburb, Ptionville, are the islands major
destination and international gateway. Labadie, near Cap Hatien on the
north coast, was once a charter destination and popular cruise port.
Nearby are Sans Souci and the Citadelle, two of the islands major tourist
sights. Jacmel, on the south coast, has some of Haitis best beaches.
Local Transportation
The tap-tap is Haitis most common form of transportation, and such
a colorful one that every tourist will want a picture of at least one of
them. Tap-taps are the countrys buses; but they are usually converted pickup trucks fitted out with board seats, or old school buses. They
are painted with colorful murals and are even given names. As
multicolored and picturesque as the tap-taps are, their comfort leaves
something to be desired. Although they tend to be crowded, a short
trip on one gives the tourist an opportunity to experience the Haitian
culture and people.
City public transportation depends on publiques (shared taxis), though
tap-taps are available for longer routes or for trips to the suburbs.
Those who wish to rent a car to see the countryside and travel between
major destinations should know that the road infrastructure is
inadequate. The major highway between Port-au-Prince and Cap
Hatien is decently paved; anything else is likely to be an adventure of
potholes and dirt roads for a good portion of the way. If clients are
going anywhere off the beaten track, a four-wheel-drive vehicle (available from most major rental companies) is advisable. Driving in
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sy of Minis
try of Touris
Today not much remains of the palace of Sans Souci. It
m of Haiti
The Cit
a
d
e
ll
e
was destroyed by an earthquake in 1842, but even the
ruins are impressive. Christophe had hoped to emulate a
French palace, such as Versailles. Though he fell short, its extravagance
when compared to the lot of the common Haitian was as apparent then
as it is today.
The Citadelle is located on a clifftop 3,000 feet above Cap Hatien and
the Caribbean Sea. This fortress was supposedly built to protect the
king and his minions from invasions that never came. Its construction
required the labor of 200,000 conscripted former slaves. The Citadelle
can be reached by a long uphill walk or a horse or mule ride. Visitors
should wear comfortable clothes and proper shoes for either the walk
or the ride.
Clients staying at Le Cap, as Cap Hatien is known locally, will of
course visit these two sites. Those staying in Port-au-Prince or
Ptionville must decide whether they want to make the trip, which usually entails at least one overnight in the Cap Hatien area. Whether they
133
should fly or take a long, tiring road trip is another consideration. The
road trip will enable them to see the Haitian countryside and people up
close, whereas the flight will give them a birds-eye view of the mountainous terrain.
Island Culture
Haiti attracts visitors for many reasons other than sun, sand, and fun.
Its mixture of French and African culture is one of the most fascinating
and unique in the Western Hemisphere. The dynamic colors of its
primitif paintings make its art preeminent in the Caribbean.
Though 70 percent of Haitians are Catholic and 30 percent are
Protestant, it is estimated that half of them practice voodoo. Voodooism
profoundly influences the lives of Haitians with its belief in ancestor
worship and communication by trance with the deities. Elements of
magic, dance, music and drumming, and possession of the body by spirits are all part of the cult. Actual voodoo ceremonies are authentic religious events not meant for tourists. This does not mean that visitors
cannot or would not ever be invited to attend; but an invitation is rare
and comes only to those deemed to have the capacity to participate to
some degree, if only as observers. It is not something for visitors
amusement or even their education. Replicas of voodoo dances and
music are occasionally performed at shows for tourists, but they should
not be confused with the real thing.
The French-inspired Haitian cuisine is one of the pleasures of the country. Local specialties include lambi (conch), homard and langouste (of
the lobster family), griots (pork marinated in lemon and salt, fried, and
served with a hot spicy sauce), and rice and beans (found just about
everywhere). These dishes are almost always accompanied by fried
bananas, breadfruit, yams, or some other type of carbohydrate.
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Most first-time visitors will want to see one of the fairly authentic recreations of a voodoo ceremony. Otherwise, nightlife centers around
the large hotels, especially those with casinos. The Ptionville hotels
and bars are closest to what would be considered the in scene in
Port-au-Prince.
Cruise Call
Haitis rich culture and art made it a popular port of call in the past.
Ships are beginning to return, after a hiatus during the civil unrest of
the early 1990s. Both Port-au-Prince, the islands stimulating capital,
and Cap Hatien, near Sans Souci and the Citadelle, may be used regularly as ports again in the future.
In the past 15 years, the most frequently used port has been the small
town and beach location of Labadie, just west of Cap Hatien. Royal
Caribbean Cruise Line uses it mainly as a beach-picnic stop, though
tours to Sans Souci, the Citadelle, and Cap Hatien are also available if
conditions warrant.
Most visitors will choose to have lunch amid the bustle of downtown
Port-au-Prince and dinner in Ptionville, where most fine dining establishments are located. If visitors are staying downtown, they may wish
to do the reverse. Top restaurants generally feature French and/or
Creole cuisine, but plenty of other ethnic cuisines are represented as
well. Eating at one of the better hotel restaurants can be an excellent
choice here.
Selling Haiti
Haiti will appeal to those who long for a place imbued with spiritual
meaning and who enjoy a genuinely open, friendly, and soulful people.
Culture enthusiasts and those who want a firsthand look at unfolding
international politics are other markets. Artists, art collectors, and art
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dealers are prime candidates to see the local scene. They might be
joined by gourmands who relish the opportunity to enjoy creative fare
at moderate prices. Haiti is not for those who want a conventional
beach vacation without anything marring their peace of mind.
Haiti is not a dangerous country for those who plan their trips well.
But conventional travelers will have difficulty dealing with the obvious
poverty of such a sizable portion of the population. Check the current
situation and reserve with trusted operators or hotels that will provide
guides or guidance for the traveler.
Being the first to offer Haiti as it emerges from its recent past could be
a well-appreciated service to appropriate clients. Its art, religion, and
cuisine will amaze them; they would have to go to Brazil or Africa to
find a culture equal to Haitis.
Island Secret
Haiti has two smaller islands off its shores. Those who want to see a
location before tourism changes its character can visit le de la Tortue
(Tortuga Island or Turtle Island). It lies off the northern peninsula and
has a number of nice beaches and a rugged interior. Plans are afoot to
develop le de la Tortue as a future destination, though it may not happen overnight. Currently, there are no organized hotels, so the island is
best seen on a day trip by ferry or rented boat. le de la Gonve
(Gonve Island) is off the Cte des Arcadins. This impoverished island
is densely populated and has a rugged, deforested, mountainous
interior. It is much larger than La Tortue, but it too has no accommodations at present. (Tourists can usually find room with a local family if
they wish to stay.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
Strong culture
Cap Hatien and Labadie
Sans Souci Palace and the Citadelle
Political challenges
Shares island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic
136
My Contact Information
137
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Puerto
Plata
Playa Dorada
Cabarete
Saman Peninsula
Sosa
Playa
Santiago
Grande
Mt. Isabel
de Torres
Saman
Pico Duarte
Los
Haitses
Santo Domingo
Constanza
Bay of Saman
El Macao
San Pedro
De Macors Higuey
Bvaro
Punta
Cana
La Romana/
Casa de Campo
HAITI
Jarabacoa
Boca Chica
Guyacanes
Barahona
Isla Saona
Juan Dolio
Isla Cabritos
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Isla Catalina
Lake Enriquillo
CARIBBEAN SEA
Dominican
Republic
138
Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
76.7
Kilometers 123.4
Dominican
Republic
T
he Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic occupies the eastern twothirds of the island of Hispaniola, sharing it with Haiti. This Latin
country ranks among the top three in the Caribbean in numbers of air
passengers to and from the United States. Much of this traffic is due to
the countrys large population, the second largest in the Caribbean. Also
there are many Dominican U.S. residents and citizens of Dominican
descent. But its tourism infrastructure is also one of the largest in the
Caribbean. It has more hotel rooms than any other Caribbean island,
more than 40,000 as of the year 2000 and growing rapidly.
The Dominican Republics size, about twice that of New Hampshire,
lends itself to a wide choice of sightseeing and activities. It has vast natural beauty in its forests and mountains (including the highest mountain
in the Caribbean), colonial architecture in its Spanish cities, and great
beaches on all three of its coasts. Casinos and a Latin-inspired nightlife
add to the mix. Some of its lavish resorts are world famous, and yet this
is one of the only places in the Caribbean where a budget traveler can
find comfortable accommodations, often on or near a beautiful beach,
and sometimes even in high season.
Historical Background
Fast Facts
Land Area
19,120 square miles
Population
9 million
Capital
Santo Domingo
Languages
Spanish, some English
Time Zone
UTC -4 or AST (EST +1). It does not
observe daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Right
Currency
Dominican peso
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
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140
All three locations have major airports receiving direct flights from the
United States, Canada, and Europe. Ecotravelers and outdoor
adventurers may try the Barahona area in the southwest or Pico Duarte
and other mountainous areas in the interior.
Because of its size and large tourism infrastructure, the Dominican
Republic has one of the widest arrays of sports activities in the entire
Caribbean. In particular, it is a golfers paradise, with numerous courses
around the island. Three of the most famous courses are at the Casa de
Campo resort. The Dominican Republic is one of the leading
windsurfing locations in the region and boasts the highest mountain in
the Caribbean (which can be reached via a two-day trek). Visitors can
also indulge in mountain-biking, canyoning, and whitewater-rafting
sports options that few (if any) other Caribbean destinations offer.
Local Transportation
Most vacationers get along fine with transfers to their resort and
occasional buses, minivans, and taxis for travel along the coast or into
the interior. However, renting a car is a good option for those who
want to see a lot of the countryside beyond their resort area, or who
want the convenience of traveling up and down the coasts sampling
other beaches, restaurants, and nightspots. Roads are excellent in most
places, in marked contrast with those in Haiti.
Major buses with regular routes, gua-guas (minibuses, vans, or buses
that operate whenever they can put together a full load), and shared
taxis circulate the entire country. The in-town versions of gua-guas and
shared taxis are called publicos and carros, respectively. Taxi-motorcycles
are another option. The passenger just hops on the back and hangs on
to the driver.
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Republic
Dominican
Courtesy of
e
Tourist Offic
The old city holds numerous other streets and plazas, where
the ladies of court promenaded; Casa Coln, the castlehouse where Colombus son Diego lived and which today is
se
ighthou
L
s
u
b
a museum; and the ruins of San Francisco Monastery,
Colum
which is floodlit at night. The colonial and the modern
areas of the city come together in Independence Park where the ruins
of the colonial wall run beside the mausoleum of the fathers of the
modern state. Suggest that clients take a walking tour of the old town
starting with El Conde, the main pedestrian walking mall.
The modern section of the city should not be missed either. An
impressive cultural area, the Plaza de la Cultura, holds the Museum of
Dominican Man, the National Theater, the National Library, the
Museum of Natural History, and the Gallery of Modern Art. Few
places in the Caribbean have as much art and culture as do the colonial
and modern sections of the Dominican capital. A three-mile Malecn
(seaside promenade) of tall palms, tourist hotels, and sea breezes stretches along the Caribbean Sea. A huge botanical garden and a zoo are other
attractions in this city, whose metropolitan population tops 3 million.
Mid-rise, resort-style, top-of-the-line hotels are located along the
Malecn and in the center of the city. Many have business, convention,
and large meeting facilities, though there are even larger resorts
elsewhere on the island. The colonial district holds a small selection of
smaller, atmospheric hostelries in historic edifices, as well as a number
of budget choices.
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those staying in La Capital can easily get to fabulous beach areas, while
those staying at beach resorts can reach the capitals sights, shops,
restaurants, and nighttime entertainment.
About ten miles east of Boca Chica are the more upscale beach towns
of Guayacanes and Juan Dolio. They are somewhat less frenetic than
Boca Chica, but boast twice as many resorts and hotels along their
miles of beaches. Farther east is San Pedro de Macors. This industrial
town has endowed the U.S. major leagues with numerous baseball
stars, including hometown hero Sammy Sosa. Its baseball stadium was
remodeled for the 2000 winter season.
The area around La Romana, another 30 miles east, contains exquisite
beaches and the offshore wildlife preserves of Catalina and Saona,
which are unspoiled islets of the National Park of the East. The areas
number-one claim to fame for visitors is Casa de Campo, the most
renowned resort in the country and one of the most well known in the
Caribbean. The resort boasts 150 luxury two- to four-bedroom villas,
10 international restaurants, two 18-hole championship golf courses,
polo grounds, and a shooting center. Casa de Campo is also known for
its horseback-riding.
Boca Chica, the first of these resort areas, is actually closer to Las
Americas International Airport than is Santo Domingo. Boca Chica,
once a picturesque fishing village, has a mixture of a very casual but
lively international travelers, many from Europe, and local beachgoers
in a classic tropical setting of swaying palms on an aquamarine bay. In
fact, Boca Chicas beach is the largest reef-protected lagoon in the
Caribbean. Three major resorts and a casino are located here.
If vacationers want a bit of a break from the idyllic beaches, they can
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Sometimes called the Amber Coast because of the large deposits found
here, the north coast holds more than 17,000 of the countrys rooms.
The historic city of Puerto Plata was once a pirate lair and later a
thriving port. It is filled with lacy gingerbread houses of pastel colors,
giving it the romantic atmosphere of an earlier time. Most agree that
Puerto Plata is the countrys loveliest city. Tourists can take the
teleferico (sky lift) to the top of Mt. Isabel de Torres, 2,600 feet above
the city. They can also visit San Felipe Fort, shop at the amber market,
and see the Amber Museum. Otherwise, Puerto Plata is a peaceful
cityvisitors can enjoy the sand and sea nearby.
There are hotels within the city proper, but most are located to the
east, especially in the area of magnificent beaches of Playa Dorada.
This is the major tourist area of the north coast, with tennis courts, a
golf course, all-inclusives, all-suite resorts, horseback-riding, and full
vacation facilities.
A bit farther east is Sosa, home to German-Jewish settlers who fled
Europe before 1940. Sosa still has visible signs of its background;
German bakeries and dairies, and the area in general, seem to have
special appeal to Canadian and European vacationers. It has many small
hotels and villas, but the beaches around it have a good selection of
larger new resorts also. Another 15 minutes east of Sosa is Cabarete,
which is the windsurfing capital of the Dominican Republic and one of
this sports top locations in the Caribbean.
144
rum factories, can be visited from the coast. Farther south are the
Dominican Republics and the Caribbeans highest mountains. Pico
Duarte is the highest peak, at 10,417 feet (3,175 meters); it is located
between the mountain towns of Constanza and Jarabacoa. Hiking to
the top of the mountain is a real trek; hikers must spend one or two
nights at mountain huts and should wear proper clothing for cold
weather. A guide, permit, and supplies are needed before embarking on
the trail. There are other hiking trails nearby. Less athletic visitors
might want to stop at Constanza and Jarabacoa, which provide a pleasant, cooling alpine break from the coast.
The most prominent geographic feature on the countrys north coast is
the long thumb of the Saman Peninsula, which creates the Bay of
Saman. Somewhat isolated from the big tourist areas, it remains wild
and sparsely populated. More hardy visitors can enjoy patches of
tropical jungle, small villages, turquoise bays, and dream beaches. In
winter, the bay is home to hundreds of humpback whales. The city of
Saman was settled by two shiploads of freed American slaves, and
many residents still speak English as their first language.
Island Culture
The majority of Dominicans are of mixed-race heritage (European-West
Indian or European-African). The European ancestry is mostly Spanish.
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146
Shoppers will want to look for the colorful trays, hammocks, woven
bags, and baskets that are made locally. A tape or CD of merengue
music also makes a great gift or souvenir. Amber lovers will be in
ecstasy; the stone can be found in diverse sizes and shapes, with a great
variety of fossilized insects and plants caught within. It is the national
precious stone of the Dominican Republic.
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Cruise Call
In the Dominican Republic, land-based vacationers will not be
inundated by thousands of cruise day-trippers. Santo Domingo is the
most popular port of call and can easily handle the influx. From the
port, taxis and tours visit the city, but a long walk (40 minutes or so)
will take tourists to Colonial City, where most of the interesting sights
are. Those opting to walk one way could always take a taxi back,
especially after indulging in some shopping on El Conde.
Other ships call at La Romana, also on the south coast. Passengers may
have a choice of using the facilities of a beachfront resort such as Casa
de Campo or having a picnic on a private island just offshore.
Ships occasionally stop at Puerto Plata, allowing arrivals to buy some
amber, visit Fort Felipe, or take the sky lift to Mt. Isabel.
Island Secret
The Dominican Republics national parks provide numerous nature
travel opportunities. Isla Cabritos, an island in the middle of Lake
148
My Contact Information
149
ATLANTIC OCEAN
El
Morro
Fort
Arecibo
Dorado
Beach
Dorado
Rio Abajo
Forest Reserve
Catao
Isla
Verde
PUERTO RICO
Mona
M OU N T AI N S
Culebra
El Yunque
Mayagez
CE NTRA L
Cabo Rojo
La Parguera
Luquillo
Fajardo
San Juan
Cayey
Ponce
Humacao
Yabucoa
Vieques
Bioluminescent
Guanica Dry Forest
Bay
CARIBBEAN SEA
Puerto Rico
150
Capital
City or town
Attraction
Miles
28
Kilometers
45
Puerto Rico
L
ush, verdant Puerto Rico (PWAIR toh REE koh) is the smallest (midway between the size of Delaware and Connecticut) and easternmost
of the Greater Antilles, yet it looms largest on the tourism scene. Visitors
can choose from a wealth of experiences, natural sights, and man-made
pleasures. Resorts, high-rises, casinos, and lavish entertainment coexist
with rain forests, mountains, and magical lagoons of bioluminescent light.
Fast Facts
Puerto Rico contains 78 towns, many of which are on the islands 270
miles of beach. San Juan, the biggest of all, has 1 million residents and
is an amalgam of at least four different cities surrounded by a larger
metro area. Yet less than an hours drive away are rain forests and
mountains in nature reserves and national forests.
Capital
San Juan
Land Area
3,435 square miles
Population
3.8 million
Languages
Spanish, English
Time Zone
UTC -4 or AST (EST +1). It does not
observe daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Right
Currency
U.S. dollar
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
Historical Background
Borinquen, as the native Taino Indians called this land, was
romantically renamed Puerto Rico (rich port) by the Spanish soon
after conquest. However, their hope for gold and riches faded after a few
decades. But because of the islands size, Spain doggedly held onto it
throughout the next four centuries, unlike the many smaller Caribbean
islands that Spain quickly abandoned. The Spanish used the island as a
military outpost and built massive defenses such as the fortress of El
151
Morro, which today is Old San Juans major sight. Juan Ponce de Len,
who later went to Florida to seek the Fountain of Youth, was the islands
first governor and is buried in San Juan Bautista Cathedral.
In the 1600s and 1700s, sugar plantations and other crops helped the
islands economy thrive, due in no small measure to the slave trade and
to Spains protection against Dutch, English, French, and pirate forces.
In 1809 Spain recognized Puerto Rico as an overseas province and
granted it the right to send representatives to the Spanish government.
As Spain began to lose its Latin American empire, loyal colonists
escaped to Puerto Rico and helped the island expand and prosper.
Puerto Ricos relative success and Spains weakened hand created a
cry for freedom on the island, and in 1897 Spain granted it limited
autonomy. In 1898 this same weakness led to U.S. intervention in
Cuba and to the Spanish-American War. Because Spain was still
nominally in control of Puerto Rico, the United States demanded that
Spain surrender it upon signing the peace treaty. The United States
installed a military government to administer the island and later
established it as an unincorporated territory.
In 1917 the U.S. Congress passed an act granting Puerto Ricans U.S.
citizenship. The islands economy soon began to strengthen as investment and federal development integrated it somewhat into the U.S.
economic sphere. By 1951 Puerto Rico acquired the right to establish
its own government and constitution, and the following year the island
was declared a semiautonomous commonwealth. Puerto Ricans receive
most of the benefits that come with U.S. citizenship; they are also subject to some obligations of citizenship, including, in the past, military
service. However, they do not pay federal income tax, do not vote for
president, and do not have direct representation in Congress.
At times loud and even violent debate has occurred as to whether Puerto
Rico should become independent, remain a commonwealth, or become
the 51st U.S. state. This discussion continues to the present day, but in
reality, a recent referendum has shown that only 3 percent of the population favors independence. Over the years, the balance of opinion has
shifted back and forth between those favoring the status quo and those
backing statehood. Exactly what the future holds for Puerto Rico in relation to the United States remains uncertain, but what does seem certain
is that it will continue its American connection in some form.
152
cities have direct service to San Juans airport, the largest in the
Caribbean. From San Juan, visitors can reach almost every island in the
Caribbean, most by nonstop or direct flights. A ferry operates between
the western city of Mayagez and the Dominican Republic.
The San Juan area contains dozens of hotels, and location depends on a
clients travel motivation. Those seeking to be in the heart of the
actionbeaches, casinos, nightlifewill opt to stay at or near the
Condado Beach area. Pre- and post-cruisegoers, culture enthusiasts,
and more sedate types may prefer to stay in Old San Juan.
Those coming on business can stay in the Miramar district or other
areas closer to commercial enterprises, but in truth most will gravitate
toward Condado, where there is much more hotel selection and
activity. A second action-packed beach area, Isla Verde, is away from
the main part of the city but closer to the airport. Isla Verde has plenty
of large resorts, including a new Ritz-Carlton; many vacationers prefer
this area rather than Condado. Other candidates for Isla Verde are
those who want just a glimpse of San Juan or those who are really here
to explore the rest of the island rather than the big city.
The golf and country club set who want to be away from the bustle of
the city may fancy Dorado Beach, a very upscale area west of San Juan.
The more rugged eastern tip of the island, an hour or so from the
capital, is another choice; it houses one of the Caribbeans most famous
resorts and many newer ones. Both the northeastern and northwestern
corners of this rectangular island (which is about 100 miles long and
35 miles wide) have a good concentration of hotels, beaches, and resort
areas. Other accommodations are scattered along the northern and
southern coasts, and a parador system provides lodging in lessfrequented areas of the interior.
Local Transportation
Taxi rates from the airport to any location in San Juan are very reasonable, if visitors first obtain a chit to their destination at the Ground
Transportation Information desk. Shared minivans that serve specific
areas of the city from the airport charge only a few dollars.
Buses run along the strip from Isla Verde to Old San Juan, connecting
most of the major tourist areas of the city; guaguas (vehicles that run set
routes) cover most of the rest of the city. Fares are 25 to 50 cents. A free
trolley circulates through Old San Juan. A ferry service connects Old
San Juan (which is on a peninsula) with the industrial town of Catao,
across the bay. A metro train system is scheduled to open in 2001.
153
Practically speaking, to see the rest of the island outside of San Juan,
the traveler has two choices: a rental car or a tour. Guaguas provide
public transportation to various towns or locations but are not conducive to exploring. Many rental car companies operate on the island.
Be sure to inform clients ahead of time that speed limits are in miles
per hour, distance markers are in kilometers, and gasoline is sold by the
liter. Major highways around the island are well maintained, but secondary roads can be narrow or steep, especially in the Central
Mountains. Nothing on the island is more than about two and a half
hours from San Juan. While staying in San Juan, most travelers will be
better off relying on taxis, buses, or guaguas.
Scheduled air service connects San Juan with the major cities of Ponce
and Mayagez as well as the islands of Vieques and Culebra. A busy
ferry service operates two or three times a day from Fajardo to Vieques
and Culebra.
154
the tip of Old San Juan. It is composed of six massive levels, containing ramps, barracks, dungeons, turrets, towers, and tunnels. Its
uppermost section affords a commanding view of the harbor.
La Fortaleza, a palace with lovely gardens, was built in 1540. It is the
oldest governors mansion used as such in the Western Hemisphere.
San Jose Plaza, a few blocks away, is lined with the Pablo Casals
Museum, which holds manuscripts, photographs, recordings, videotapes of concerts, and the masters favorite cellos; San Jose Church,
a splendid vaulted-ceiling church in the Spanish Gothic style; and the
Dominican Convent, now restored as the home of the Institute of
Puerto Rican Culture.
Outside of Old San Juan, one of the most popular visits is to the
Bacardi Rum Distillery, which produces 100,000 gallons of rum daily.
The Botanical Gardens and Museum of Contemporary Puerto
Rican Art are also worth a special trip.
The new Museum of Puerto Rican Art is the islands first world-class
museum with a five-acre sculpture garden and 130,000 square feet of
modern facilities. Exhibitions trace Puerto Ricos visual arts from
colonial times to the present. The museum is located in the Santurce
section of San Juan, adjacent to the important tourist area of Condado.
155
A waterfall
in El Yunque
156
cross the entire length of the island and link up with other routes that
take a few days to complete. The following Around the Island:
Attractions proceed clockwise around the perimeter of the island, and
then move on to the interior and the offshore islands.
Except for San Juan itself, the coast east of San Juan has traditionally
been the most visited part of Puerto Rico, because it holds two of the
islands most diverse sights. About two-thirds of the way between the
capital and Fajardo is the Caribbean National Forest, known as El
Yunque. A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, El Yunque is the only
tropical rain forest managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It is one of the
most accessible and well-maintained rain forests in the world; visitors
can enjoy its waterfalls, orchids, ferns, and vistas from their car or by
hiking one of its 13 marked trails.
The mountain and forest of El Yunque get 240 inches of rain annually.
However, a few miles away, at the base of the mountain, is Luquillo
Beach. So, in less than an hour, visitors can go from dodging raindrops
on the mountain to lolling in the sun on the beach. Luquillo is Puerto
Ricos most famous and photographed beach, a curved wedge of
gleaming white sand and turquoise water, backed by an enormous
grove of coconut palms. It is also Puerto Ricos first full-access beach
and recreational facilities for wheelchair users.
The town of Fajardo is a jumping-off point for the islands of Culebra
and Vieques. Nearby is the Wyndham El Conquistador Resort &
Country Club, spectacularly situated atop cliffs just north of the city.
157
Although Puerto Rico has a high population density, there are still
rugged and remote places on the island. The Cordillera Central
(Central Mountains) run almost the length of the island, separating
the northern and southern regions. The area resembles the mountains
of Hawaii and is blanketed with a carpet of vegetation, trees, and
grasses, though much of it has been extensively logged and cleared at
least once. The mountains serve both as a natural divider (the southern
side is much drier and almost desert-like in places) and as a cultural
barrier (more-isolated towns have developed their own customs).
The northwestern corner of the island has its own natural phenomena,
typical of which is the area known as karst country. This world-renowned
topography is characterized by haystack-shaped hills and conical sinkholes. Few roads penetrate its thick forests and mazes of hills. Trails in
various states of repair meander through the areas forest reserves.
A number of the most well-known sights in this rugged interior can be
accessed on roads going south from Arecibo. The Rio Abajo Forest
Reserve is 5,700 acres of subtropical forest surrounded by rivers and
lakes. It is home to 162 plant species, 47 of which are endangered.
More famous and not to be missed is Rio Camuy Cave Park, the
third-largest underground river system in the world. Visitors board
trams that take them down to the mouth of Clara Cave as part of their
visit to the systems remarkable sinkholes, caves, and subterranean
streams. Another tram takes them to a platform overlooking the Tres
Pueblos Sinkhole, which is 650 feet wide and 400 feet deep.
Another must-see is the Arecibo Observatory, which houses the largest
radar/radio telescope in the world. The 600-ton platform, suspended
over a 20-acre dish, is set in a sinkhole 565 feet deep. Explanations of
how the telescope works and what it does are an education in the most
recent theories of astronomy and atmospheric science.
Puerto Ricos two major islands, located off its eastern shores, add one
more dimension to its variety as a destination. A large portion of the
smaller one, Culebra, was once used as a gunnery range for the U.S.
Navy. Today the island, with its Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, is
a nature reserve and home to many rare species of birds and fish. It is
also one of the most important turtle-nesting sites in the Caribbean.
Culebras unspoiled and arid beaches are a paradise for sun-worshippers
and still have only small-scale tourist development.
Vieques (vee AY kase) is the larger of the two islands and has a famous
Bioluminescent Bay. Its many fine beaches are even more popular, and
the lodging choices are more numerous. Viequess first major resort,
158
159
will open, while a second phase of 220 rooms gets underway. Other
properties are constructing new additions, and a number of smaller
hotel projects are underway around the main island and on Culebra.
Those who desire intimate and personal lodgings also have a wide
choice. Few establishments anywhere can compare with the style and
tradition of Old San Juans El Convento, originally a Carmelite
convent. Puerto Rico has also adopted the system of paradores (a
concept first developed in Spain). There are currently 19 country inns,
ranging from centuries-old haciendas and plantations to small familyrun inns, which strive to showcase rural Puerto Rico. They must meet
exacting government standards to be part of the parador program.
Puerto Ricos sheer size and development make it stand out among its
neighbors and enable it to offer what it calls a magic mix of facilities
that few can match. They include the new convention center; several
facilities for deep-sea fishing, diving, and water sports; and many
marinas. The islands Spanish and Native Indian heritage and sites are
also unique. Puerto Ricos tropical rain forest (the only one in the
U.S. national forest system), cave networks, and bioluminescent bays
are some of the features that make it a leader in ecotourism as well.
There are many more natural sights that have not been mentioned in
the text, but you can research them for clients who enjoy nature travel.
Island Culture
Puerto Ricans exhibit many of the cultural attributes of other Latin
peoples. They are passionate in their beliefs, consider music an essential
part of any social gathering, regard food as mandatory when having
guests, and use lively hand and facial gestures when speaking.
Intergenerational ties are strong, and people of all ages easily attend the
same functions. The vast majority of Puerto Ricans are Catholic.
American and Puerto Rican cultures sometimes commingle, but more
often they exist side by side: a colorful Caribbean or colonial-style
wooden building might sit next to a hard-edged concrete structure;
diners in Old San Juan can enjoy asopao (traditional Puerto Rican stew
made with root vegetables and rice) at La Mallorquina (which opened
in 1848), while others partake of fajitas or a burger at the Hard Rock
Caf a block away; jibaros (rural people) often entertain their nuyorican
relatives, visiting from the Big Apple.
Spanish and English are the islands official languages, and both are
taught in school. English is spoken in major tourist areas and throughout the island, especially by younger people. However, many middle-
160
aged and older people speak little English. Musical styles in the big
cities and resorts resemble other Latin countries, while the rural towns
still retain many of the original Spanish forms, sprinkled with Native
Indian and Caribbean influences.
Puerto Rican cuisine features many Caribbean dishes, but the island
also has its own distinctive Creole cuisine, a mixture of Indian, Spanish,
and African influences. Sofrito is a sauted base mixture used in soups
and stews. Most meats are cooked adobo, with a marinade of garlic and
oregano. Asopao, stews, and meat pies are popular main dishes. Arroz
con pollo (rice with chicken), lechon asado (roasted pork), a variety of
plantain dishes, and saffron are other fixtures. Popular finales to a meal
are fruit, cheeses, and flan. Coffee grown in the islands interior ranks
among the worlds best.
Among the many good buys on the island are coffee, ron (rum),
jewelry, and island crafts such as contemporary art, ceramic tiles,
santos (hand-carved wooden religious figurines), cuatros (hand-made
10-string guitars), and festival masks (especially from Ponce).
161
A night ou
t in Puerto
Courtesy of PRTC
/Len
Rico
Kaufman
Cruise Call
San Juan is second only to Miami as a departure point for cruises. Visits
to San Juan and Puerto Rico in conjunction with cruises are usually in
the form of pre- or post-cruise packages rather than as a cruise stop
(most clients prefer pre-cruise visits). Cruisegoers must decide how
much time to devote to the city and island. Those traveling overnight
to meet a cruise will have much of the day to see San Juan (if they feel
awake enough to do so). Those coming from the West Coast should
probably arrive at least a day before the cruise departs. They can then
spend much of the embarkation day seeing the city and be well rested
and ready to enjoy the cruise.
162
Old San Juan is within walking distance of most ships at dock, but the
walk can be a bit long on a hot day. One solution is to take a taxi to
Old San Juan and then meander back.
163
Island Secret
Mona is an unspoiled island refuge inhabited solely by giant iguanas,
three species of endangered sea turtles, red-footed boobies, and
countless other seabirds. This protected nature reserve, sometimes
called the Galapagos of the Caribbean, lies 50 miles off Puerto Ricos
western coast. Limestone cliffs 200 feet high overlook the islands coast
and its surrounding coral reefs, and a large marine-originated cave
system honeycombs it. Visitors can reach Mona by charter boat from
Mayagez. Snorkelers, spelunkers, biologists, and ecotourists can obtain
permission to camp on the island, but they must bring everything they
need, including water.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Dorado Beach
El Yunque and Luquillo Beach
Fajardo: gateway to Culebra and Vieques
Ponce
Bioluminescent bays
Mayagez
Arecibo and the interior
164
My Contact Information
165
Magens
Bay
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Frenchtown
Charlotte Amalie
St. Thomas
St. John
Red Hook
ST. THOMAS
1 inch = 6.2 mi., 10.1 km.
Annenberg Estate
Maho Bay
Cinnamon Bay
Trunk Bay
Caneel Bay
Virgin Islands
National Park
Coral Bay
Bordeaux
Mountain
Cruz Bay
ST. JOHN
1 inch = 6.2 mi., 10.1 km.
ST. CROIX
Christiansted
Frederiksted
Hamms Bluff
St. Croix
Cruzan Rum Distillery
CARIBBEAN SEA
166
Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
11.3
Kilometers 18.1
U.S. Virgin
Islands
T
Fast Facts
Land Area
St. Thomas: 32 square miles
St. John: 19 square miles
St. Croix: 84 square miles
Population
115,000 (in 1990 3,500 residents in St.
John, with the rest of the population
divided between St. Thomas and St.
Croix.)
Capital
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
The main townsCharlotte Amalie (St. Thomas), Cruz Bay (St. John),
and Christiansted and Frederiksted (St. Croix)offer a surprising architecture and charm that bespeak their Danish heritage. The Virgin
Islands National Park and Buck Island Reef National Monument offer
underwater snorkeling trails, ideal for the first-timer, and the best
camping opportunities in the Caribbean. The islands are easily reached
by cruise ships out of southern Florida, as well as those that depart
from San Juan, and are about a 30-minute flight from Puerto Rico.
The islands climate is better than most, with trade winds keeping both
the humidity and temperatures moderate.
Languages
English; approximately 45 percent of St.
Croixs population speaks Spanish.
Historical Background
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
Like many of the smaller islands in the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands
were forgotten for a century after Columbus first landing. In the
1600s, the English and Dutch recognized their strategic importance
and in turn fought with the Spanish and the French, who sold the
islands to a religious order, the Knights of Malta. During periods in
which these countries were warring in Europe, Danish settlers assumed
control. After a succession of owners, Denmark declared the islands a
Danish Crown colony.
St. Thomas became a free port and flourished as an important trading
station (it still does, being recognized by most as the prime shopping
island in the Caribbean), while St. John and St. Croix became rich
sugar plantations. The free enterprise nature of the islands and the
turmoil that occurred between different regimes made them a magnet
for pirates such as Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, whose legends live on.
At the height of World War I, the United States purchased the islands
Time Zone
UTC -4 or AST (EST +1). They do not
observe daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Left
Currency
U.S. dollar
Documents
Even though the U.S. Virgin Islands are
a U.S. territory, American citizens or
residents should carry proof of
citizenship or a residency card with
them when entering and leaving the
islands. Please review document
information in the course Introduction
to see what constitutes proof of
citizenship.
167
from Denmark for $25 million in gold to protect its interests in the
Panama Canal. The islands remain a U.S. territory, and have one
delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives who is allowed to vote
in House sessions. All Virgin Islanders are citizens of the United States,
but they cannot vote in presidential elections.
Local Transportation
Visitors have three choices of public transportation on St. Thomas:
taxis, taxi-vans, and the Vitran bus system. Sharing a taxi-van cuts the
cost of a taxi trip, but passengers may go by an indirect route while
others are dropped off. Other taxis operate as jitneys on certain routes.
The convenient and inexpensive Vitran bus system covers most of the
12-mile length of the island, and buses stop within walking distance of
most spots. Renting a car is not as expensive as on many islands, but
most visitors probably will not need one for more than a day or two of
exploration, if that. Roads are narrow, hills are steep, and driving is on
the left side. Caution should be used on all three islands.
168
Buses also run across much of St. Croix, but those who want to explore
the nooks and crannies of this larger island may need a rental car. On
St. Croix, secondary roads can be a challenge.
Those who are arriving in St. Thomas and plan to stay in St. John for
a while can take a taxi from the St. Thomas airport to either Charlotte
Amalie, situated mid-island, or to Red Hook on the eastern side of St.
Thomas. They can then take a ferry to St. John from either location.
Day-trippers to St. John and those with minimal luggage can take the
bus to Red Hook; from there, it is a quick boat ride to St. John (the
fare is just a few dollars). St. John has limited bus service and moderately priced taxi-surreys to a few key locations on the island. Those
wanting to explore coves and secluded parts of the national park at
their own pace may wish to rent a car or jeep. Open jeeps are fun for
sightseeing the island, but drivers should be cautious. Book in advance
during busy season because the number of vehicles is limited.
Courtesy of
U.S. Virgin
Islands Depa
rtment of To
urism
St. Thomas
Shoppin
g
169
The classic tour of the island includes Drakes Seat, high in the
mountains above Charlotte Amalie. It was the lookout point from
which Sir Francis Drake kept watch over his fleet and looked for enemy
ships of the Spanish. The panoramic view includes the British Virgin
Islands, Drakes Passage, and Magens Bay, the islands most popular
and famous beach. Visitors will definitely want to stop at Mountain
Top for a banana daiquiri (said to have been invented here). This
vantage point provides an even more spectacular view of the
surroundings. Garden lovers can stop at nearby Estate St. Peter
Greathouse and Botanical Gardens.
The islands number-one attraction, besides its capital and natural
setting, is Coral World. This four-and-a-half-acre marine park allows
visitors to its Underwater Observatory to go 15 feet below the sea
without getting wet. This is a natural environment, where fish and
other marine creatures are free to come and go as they please. The park
also includes an 80,000-gallon tank of exotic creatures and 21
aquariums. More underwater wonders can be experienced on a ride in
the Atlantis Submarine. Mahogany Run Golf Course has some of
the most beautifully situated holes in the Caribbean.
Magens Bay ranks among the top 10 beaches in many Caribbean
publications, and a lot of beachgoers agree. St. Thomas is surrounded
by hidden coves and secluded beaches for those who prefer a bit
more privacy.
Numerous luxury resorts as well as a healthy collection of atmospheric
inns, condominiums, and smaller hotels are distributed around the
islands shores. The newer Ritz-Carlton was created to resemble a
Venetian palazzo, while Marriott Frenchmans Reef has welcomed visitors for decades. The Inn at Bluebeards Castle is built around a 17thcentury tower on 20 hilltop acres. Hotel 1829 in Charlotte Amalie is an
Old Worldstyle inn that is a designated national historic site.
St. John
Although smaller than the other two U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John is a
natural treasure. Virgin Islands National Park covers more than
three-quarters of the island. The park was created when Laurance
Rockefeller donated a large parcel of land to the United States. The
National Park Service protects both the wildlife and the coral gardens
surrounding the island.
Visitors by ferry will alight at Cruz Bay, the islands only real town. Hills
rise above the bay and overlook the harbor. This sleepy artist colony is just
beginning to bustle with cozy shops, information centers, and taxi drivers
170
ready to help visitors explore the island. Small hotels and villa
complexes are nearby, and a large Westin is just over the hill.
The islands major road and best beaches are along the hilly
north coast: Caneel Bay, Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and
Maho Bay. Beaches here are idyllic, with hidden coves,
twisting palm trees growing to the waters edge, and rocks
and islets just off the coastand the entire environment is
surrounded by coral.
Co
urtesy of U.
S. Virgin Is
Trunk Bays underwater trail is perfect for novice
lands Depa
rtment of To
urism
C
ruz Bay
snorkelers. Submerged signs point to coral and other
features of the deep. The highly popular trail can be quite
crowded in high season, and the water is not always as clear as it
once was. Farther on, the partially restored Annenberg Plantation
depicts life as it was two or three centuries ago, while the ruins of other
sugar mills crumble forlornly amid the tropical foliage in the park. A
number of hiking paths lead to vistas throughout the park.
St. Croix
St. Croix (saint KROI), the largest of the Virgin Islands, lies 40 miles
south of St. Thomas. The islands west end is lush with rain forests of
mahogany and mango trees, while its east end is arid and rocky. In
between, rolling hills and pastures dominate.
St. Croix has its share of lovely beaches, mostly along the north shore.
171
It also has shopping that rivals that in St. Thomas. However, the
ambiance is much different, perhaps similar to that of St. Thomas 50
years ago. Fewer cruise ships arrive with swarms of shoppers and sightseers, and a more relaxed atmosphere prevails. Typical pastimes are
soaking up the historic architecture and sights, stopping at a beach for
a swim, and strolling along the waterfront of Christiansted or
Frederiksted. Both cities are on the U.S. National Historic Registry.
St. Croixs airport is a bit closer to Frederiksted than to Christiansted,
but the vast majority of accommodations are near the larger
Christiansted. Here visitors are charmed by cobblestoned streets, old
government houses, and well-maintained courtyards and gardens in the
old town. Government House, Customs House, and Steeple
Building are part of this National Historic Site, but perhaps the towns
most dramatic sight is the yellow Fort Christianvaern, built in 1749,
after the Danish took control.
Frederiksted is a smaller town. It was largely destroyed by fire in 1878
and has been devastated by hurricanes. Town leaders have restored
much of the former Danish grandeur to Frederiksted. Its gingerbread
architecture and historic sites can easily be seen on foot.
St. Croixs most well-known sight is Buck Island Reef National
Monument, with its legendary beach of coral sand and crystalline
water. Lying a mile and a half off the northeastern coast, Buck Island is
a 300-acre volcanic rock surrounded by 550 acres of underwater coral.
The inner reef ranges in depth from 12 to 15 feet and has marked trails
for snorkeling. More experienced divers have plenty to explore in the
labyrinth and grottoes of this enormous reef.
The Cruzan Rum Distillery and the islands ruined and restored sugar
plantations are St. Croixs other major sights. The Carambola Golf
Course, the best in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is located here.
The Buccaneer Inn, near Christiansted, is the islands most well-known
luxury resort, but newer resorts (one introducing the Virgin Islands first
casino) have opened or are near completion. An excellent selection of
villas, condominiums, smaller hotels, bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), and
even campsites are available. Some are scattered along the coasts and near
Frederiksted, but the vast majority are near Christiansted.
172
The U.S. and British Virgin Islands constitute one of the prime sailing
and yachting destinations in the Caribbean. Only the Grenadines and
the Bahamas begin to compete with the wealth of islands, coves, harbors, and sheltered waters that beckon sailors. They are never out of
sight of a safe anchorage or a white-sand beach. Every kind of watercraft
or boat is available in St. Thomas for independent day sailing or touring.
Windjammer cruises touch upon many of the islands. These are large
sailing vessels carrying 75 to 100 passengers on weeklong cruises where
informality is the rulethere are no lavish shows, casinos, or fancy dress.
Island Culture
Danish influence on island culture can best be seen in its architecture,
but otherwise little remains of this heritage. The language never really
took hold, and English soon supplanted it. French and Creole are spoken in some areas (a holdover from colonial days), and Spanish is spoken
by immigrants from nearby Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
The somewhat relaxed attitude permeating these islands derives from
a mixture of American, African, and Caribbean heritages. Americans
may feel more at home in the U.S. Virgin Islands than in any other
destination described in this book, since the islands are part of the
United States.
Virgin Islands National Park on St. John is unique in the National Park
system and will attract nature lovers from all over the United States.
Campers can set up on St. John or St. Croix at a reasonable price.
Snorkeling trails, which were unique when they were first created, are a
treat for new snorkelers or youngsters; the concept was later adopted
by a handful of other islands. Hiking trails through the park pass by the
ruins of plantations among the hills and preserved tropical flora.
A two-and-a-half-hour
guided kayak tour led
by experienced
naturalists and
biologists takes
ecotourists through St.
Thomass Marine
Sanctuary and
Mangrove Lagoon.
During this firsthand
educational experience,
participants can view
snowy egrets, great
barracudas, dwarf
herrings, spotted eagle
rays, jellyfish, mangrove
crabs, and even nurse
sharks in their natural
environment. Kayakers
can snorkel if they
wish; however, they are
not allowed to use fins,
which might disturb the
habitat.
173
Impressionist painter
Camille Pissarro was
born in one of the
remaining French
neighborhoods of St.
Thomas in 1830. He
continued to live on the
island until the age of
25, and his house still
stands. Some of his
early sketches and
paintings, portraying
the Caribbean, were
discovered in the
house years later.
Pissarro is considered
a native son, even
though he spent most
of his life in France.
174
Cruise Call
In contrast, St. Croix averages less than one ship a day during high
season and maybe one a week between summer and fall. Big ships dock
at Frederiksted. From there, passengers have a choice of taking a tour
to Christiansted and seeing a good part of the island, or shopping in
Frederiksted, whose stores come to life when a ship is in. Otherwise
they can stroll the charming streets and relax in relative solitude.
St. John does not harbor conventional cruises, but tourists arriving at
St. Thomas can take a tour of the island.
175
Island Secret
The St. Croix Heritage Trail, which opened in the winter of 2000,
offers a 72-mile driving tour full of historical and cultural sites. Some
have been known for decades; others are hidden treasures such as
ruined estates and plantations, churches seldom visited by tourists, and
scenic Hamms Bluff. Runaway slaves (called Maroons) sought refuge
at Hamms Bluff and founded isolated villages where they could not be
found. Whether visitors follow the entire route or just sample a few
stops, the Heritage Trail adds another dimension to what St. Croix has
to offer.
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1.
2.
3.
4.
My Contact Information
177
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Anegada
Road
Town
Cane Garden Bay
Long Bay
Little
Tobago
Great
Thatch
Island
Mosquito
Island
Necker
Island
The Dogs
Virgin Gorda Peak
Guana
Island
Great
Tobago
Jost
Van
Dyke
Little
Jost
Van
Dyke
Great
Camanoe
Island
Scrub
Island
Virgin Gorda
Spanish Town
The Baths
Beef Island
Ginger Island
Cooper Island
Tortola
Salt
Island
Sage Mountain
National Park
Pelican
Island
Peter Island
Norman Island
CARIBBEAN SEA
British Virgin
Islands
178
Capital
City or town
Attraction
0
0
Miles
5.2
Kilometers 8.5
British Virgin
Islands
T
Fast Facts
The islands are a paradise for the traveler who enjoys a quiet time
communing with the sea and sand, or sailing from one bay to the next.
The islands are favorite haunts of sailors, snorkelers, and divers; in fact,
the majority of visitors are on yachting vacations. Even the larger
islands are small enough to be seen in a day or two, leaving the rest of
the time for pure relaxation, sports, or visits to nearby islands. The
atmosphere and resorts are decidedly upscale yet quite unpretentious;
budget travelers can find moderately priced inns and camping locations.
Inns and restaurants are intimate, so you often know the owners
personal history by the time you leave.
Capital
Road Town, Tortola
Land Area
59 square miles, including all islands
Population
19,000
Languages
English
Time Zone
UTC -4 or AST (EST +1). They do not
observe daylight-saving time.
Drive on
Left
Currency
U.S. dollar
Historical Background
The British Virgin Islands experienced a similar history as their U.S.
counterparts, except that Denmark never got a foothold here. The
Spanish discovered the islands, then forgot about them. The Dutch took
control, fought with the Spanish, and eventually succumbed to the British.
In between, Blackbeard, Bluebeard, Captain Kidd, and other buccaneers
amassed as much booty as they could. Sugar, cotton, and the plantation
economy, based on slave labor, made the British colonists rich, but upon
abolition of slavery this estate economy crumbled and the islands were
relatively forgotten until tourists discovered them in the 1960s.
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles AC, same as U.S.
179
Beef Island airport or by ferry from St. Thomas. Smaller islands to the
south have local flights into Tortola.
The most visited island with the most accommodations is Tortola,
although Virgin Gorda is not far behind. Other islands such as
Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and Peter Island tend to be frequented by
sailors. Landlubbers generally have a choice of one very special resort
on each island (three on Virgin Gorda) or small inns. Most of the
smaller islands are often owned by resorts.
Virgin Gorda and Tortola are mountainous, while Anegada is so flat
that sailors have difficulty seeing it on the horizon until they are almost
upon it. Some islands are lush and green, while others are fairly dry;
Virgin Gorda is a combination.
Local Transportation
Think of Tortola as the hub island, though sometimes you may be able
to get to other islands more directly from St. Thomas. From Tortola, ferries or short flights go to neighboring islands, and water taxis and private
craft will take you to islands too small to have regularly scheduled boats.
Hotels will usually make arrangements to pick up guests from the
airport or ferry dock. Otherwise, taxis almost always meet arriving
tourists. When booking, you should consult with the hotel about
transportation. Rental cars are available for those who want to explore
these small islands, but roads are often steep and narrow.
The majority of visitors come by either private or public boat. They can
explore the surroundings by renting a boat for the day or by hiring a
sailboat with crew for a full week. The islands are spectacular and
relaxing by land, but they are a sailors dream.
180
Courtesy of
British Virg
in Islands To
urist Board
Virgin Gorda, a few miles east of Beef Island, is the third largest of the
BVIs, but it ranks in importance with Tortola. It is long and irregularly
shaped, almost pinched into two or three islands at certain points. Its
main settlement, Spanish Town, on the southern third of the island,
is a village so small that it hardly qualifies as a town. It consists mainly
of a marina, some shops, car rental agencies, the ferry slip, and
the houses of the people who work at these facilities. The
airport is nearby.
Snorke
lers at
The Ba
ths
181
182
The BVIs are also for those who love relaxation and solitude, or who
like the ambiance of an earlier era, when the word tourist was little
used but traveler connoted a special bond between the visitor and
the environment.
Secluded placeswhether they be elegant resorts, charming inns, or
bare campsitesare characteristic of the BVIs. Even the most upscale
resorts gratify visitors needs and desires in an understated,
sophisticated manner. This is not to say that the BVIs are totally
undiscovered; after all, they are just a 60-minute ferry ride from St.
Thomas. And cruise ships do call, but only two or three a week.
Serenity is always just around the bend of the next hill or a few steps
farther down the beach.
The sheltered waters, reefs, and islets make for excellent diving,
snorkeling, and water sports of all types. Complete dive courses and
resort courses (see course Introduction) are given at a number of
locations by highly qualified instructors. The dive to the RMS Rhone
is one of the Caribbeans most famous. Most tennis courts are to be
found at the resorts.
The British Virgin Islands are not the first place hikers and campers
think of going, even if theyre considering the Caribbean, but Virgin
Gorda National Park, Sage Mountain National Park, and the campgrounds located on each of the major islands make for an unusual and
ideal hiking trip. Nature lovers may enjoy the flamingos that have been
reintroduced to Flamingo Pond on Anegada and the bird sanctuary on
Great Tobago Island off Jost Van Dyke.
Island Culture
Vestiges of English culture remain, and they have an African and
Caribbean overlay. American lifestyles and preferences, however, are just
as likely to prevail at most resorts, restaurants, and shops. Dress is casual,
but a jacket is preferred for dinner at some of the more elegant resorts
in the winter season. Though dress on the beach and at resorts is
extremely casual, a cover-up is necessary in town to meet island norms.
183
front in Road Town, Tortola. The Spring Regatta, held each April in
Tortola, draws sailors from North America and the rest of the world.
Cruise Call
Although the BVIs are not one of the major cruise stops in the Caribbean, a new dock was built in Road Town, Tortola, to accommodate
two medium-sized ships at a time. The island is seeking to attract smaller upscale ships. A visit to The Baths on Virgin Gorda is high on most
cruisegoers lists, so it may be a good idea to reserve early while on
board ship. Otherwise, Tortola has plenty of pretty hill and sea vistas.
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Island Secret
Everyone visiting Virgin Gorda will want to swim through The Baths,
but adventurers also can go spelunking by rowing their dinghy into the
pirate caves on Norman Island, believed to be the inspiration for
Robert Louis Stevensons Treasure Island. Nearby are Deadmans Cay
and Dead Chest Island.
For More
Information
British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
370 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Phone: 800-835-8530 or 212-696-0400
Fax: 212-949-8254
E-mail: bvitourb@surfbvi.com
Web site: www.bviwelcome.com
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