Caribbean Things to Do

The British Virgin Islands are, for many, the quintessential islands of the Caribbean. Not as fast or busy as the neighboring U.S. Islands, the BVI is exotic, multifaceted, and yet serene. The pace of life seems slower here, and with not so much to distract you, a trip to the islands lend themselves perfectly for getaways with or without kids. Thing is, if the whole family is in tow, what to do with the little ones? It can be hard explaining to youngsters the appeal of doing nothing on the beach for hours on end, but rest assured – with a little forethought, there is plenty to do in the British Virgin Islands for the whole family.

When the cruise ship pulls up to Barbados and throws anchor there’s a special feeling upon the boat. Everyone is anxious to go ashore and see what the new land has to offer. Almost all islands on any cruise ship stop offer visitors a wide array of options for your shore excursion. When it comes to Barbados, which ones are the best?

From the historic homes that stand proudly in Old San Juan to the glitzy casinos in Condado, San Juan is a mesh of history and fun. Founded in 1509, the Puerto Rico capital is the oldest city under US authority, so it’s with good reason there are a few World Heritage-listed sites. When you’re done touring the island’s past, hike through the rainforest, go kayaking or do another outdoor activity that will allow you to marvel at Puerto Rico’s natural beauty.

Take a break from the unspoiled white-sand beaches, sleepy lagoons, and lush rainforests on St. Kitts for a catamaran cruise across the water to its tiny sister island, Nevis. As most visitors to the two-island country tend to stay on St. Kitts, this family-friendly day trip is one of the best ways to visit Nevis and snorkel, sun, and party along the way!

Barbados truly rises to the definition of tropical paradise. From its soft pink-and-white sand beaches to its verdant green hills, an island of natural wonders awaits. The best way to experience this extraordinary landscape is to embark on this Natural Wonders of Barbados Tour, which takes in some of the most incredible scenery Barbados has to offer.

Boggy Peak used to be the name of a 1,300-foot hill for hikers and mango farmers in the Caribbean. On President Obama’s 48th birthday (2009), the peak was renamed “Mount Obama” to honor his achievement in becoming the first Black President of the U.S.

Visitors to Antigua and Barbuda can have a lovely hike and get lost in the Macaw Palm Trees, Milk Trees, and Maiden Ferns (ah yes, and the Mount Obama White Lonchocarpus) in what is now known as Mount Obama National Park.

Double, double, toil and trouble. Dominica travel, volcanic bubble.

Enjoy hot springs? How about visiting the 2nd-largest in the world? Dominica’s Boiling Lake is exactly what it sounds like: a lake that is boiling in the middle. Even closer to shore, the temperature can loiter somewhere around 190 degrees Fahrenheit.