Major Tourist Attractions in Haiti

Major Tourist Attractions in Haiti

Haiti as we already know by now needs the whole world’s support due to the magnitude 7 earthquake that hit the island earlier this week. With this tragic event that killed an estimated 50,000 people, I can only hope and pray that Haitians can still find a way to continue living.

Haiti is Creole and French speaking Caribbean country. Being a Caribbean country it is blessed with one of a kind beaches. The island attracts thousands of tourists every year from around the globe. Natural wonders, parks, lakes, monument and historic sites are among the best tourist attractions of the island.

Beautiful islands are common in Haiti but Labadie Island is probably the most popular tourist spot in the country. The island is famous for its breathtaking view any time of the day. A cruise can help you check out the totality of the Labadie Island. You can check out the nearby Bay of Acul and Amiga Island. These two tourist spots are equally attractive and offer travelers luxuriant green landscapes.

If you’re a traveler who likes to know more of the country’s history then Citadelle is the right place to visit. Musee de Guahaba is a specialty museum that houses the country’s abundant arts and artifacts.

Barbancourt Rum Distillery is also a major tourist attraction in Haiti. One of the best tasting rums is being made here.

Petionville is the perfect place for vacationers who like to shop. The place is located in the country’s capital which is the Port au Prince. Various restaurants and shops are found in Petionville. You can also get a closer look of the country’s rich cultural heritage in this place.

Aside from the major tourist attractions that I have mentioned, there are also a number of places in Haiti that are worth your time and they are Lake Saumatre and Chaine de la Selle Peak. Lake Saumatre is famous for flamingos, water buffaloes, and crocodiles while the Chaine de la Selle Peak is the highest point of Haiti.

Despite being the poorest country in the western hemisphere there’s no doubt that Haiti has a lot to offer to its growing number of tourists across the globe.

Let us all hope and pray for Haiti’s fast recovery and restore those natural wonders that makes them one of the best tourist destinations in the world.
Caribbeans' Cheap Hotel Accommodation

Caribbeans' Cheap Hotel Accommodation

White-sand beaches, beautiful and magnificent coral reef formation, breath-taking and dazzling islands and landscapes, and fair tropical climate. These are just few of the facts that the Caribbean is proud about. Undoubtedly, the Caribbean is indisputably a perfect and more relaxing holiday destination. Countries like Jamaica, Bahamas, and Puerto Rico in the realm of Caribbean enjoys a profitable tourism industry, with a large flock or visit of tourists from the different parts of the globe.

In consideration of the high tide of the tourism industry, the region’s hotel sector has also seen huge development and expansion, a notable increase also in the economic development. Guest houses and quaint inns, private villas and holiday cottages which are designed to suit every taste and budget are waiting for travelers. Travelers during holidays who seek suitable accommodation can also find best 3, 4 and 5 star Caribbean hotels and resorts sprawling over city centers and beach fronts.

In choosing or selecting a hotel accommodation that perfectly meets one’s needs and expectations really takes time and careful planning, especially when the prospective destination is an exciting tourism hot spot, like the Caribbean. With this type of travel destination that is often visited by travelers from around the globe, one should expect that hotel rates could be costly and are usually higher during the peak season. However, this does not mean that budget travelers should settle with the cheapest hotel they can find. The following is Travel+Leisure’s 2007 top 25 hotels in the Caribbean, Jamaica and the Bahamas that guaranties great amenities, beautiful views, excellent service and best value for your money.

The following lists of hotels are those which that would suit best your budget. Not necessarily a cheap hotel accomodation, but something that is justifiable and appropriate.

One and Only Ocean Club, Paradise Island, Bahamas
  • Four Seasons Resort, Nevis, St. Kitts and Nevis
  • The Reefs, Southampton, Bermuda
  • CuisinArt Resort & Spa, Anguilla
  • Couples Swept Away, Negril, Jamaica
  • Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
  • Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
  • Couples Negril, Negril, Jamaica
  • Parrot Cay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
  • Cap Juluca, Anguilla
  • Peter Island Resort, Peter Island, British Virgin Islands
  • Caneel Bay, a Rosewood Resort, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Half Moon, Montego Bay, Jamaica
  • Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
  • The Buccaneer, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Casa de Campo, La Romana, Dominican Republic
  • Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino, San Juan, Puerto Rico
  • Elbow Beach, Paget, Bermuda
  • Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa, Palm Beach, Aruba
  • 2 Hotel El Convento, San Juan, Puerto Rico
  • Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino, Palm Beach, Aruba
  • Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, St. Lucia
  • Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, Whitehouse, Jamaica
  • Grand Lido Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica
  • Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa, Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip now!
Tahiti: Your Number 1 Honeymoon Destination

Tahiti: Your Number 1 Honeymoon Destination

With its relaxing tropical ambiance and array of exciting activities it offers, Tahiti is a tiny paradise in the Pacific but truly gets a lot of attention worldwide as a top destination for honeymoon. Here, you can do almost everything your heart seeks for. You can snorkel; dive into the clear-waters and live like majesty in their first-class hotels.

The Manihi Pearl Beach Resort

For newlyweds, the Manihi Pearl Beach Resort, just located a mile from the town of Uturoa, is regularly a popular destination. Like what its name denotes, this resort is widely known for the black pearls. Diving into their blue lagoon makes you realize how precious these black pearls are. Whether you’re a novice or an expert diver, diving is surely not a disappointment activity in Manihi. Couples go here not only for a romantic escapade but also for fantastic lunge as well.

Apart from diving, Manihi’s pleasing activities include chilling inside their air-conditioned bungalows, chatting at their lounging bars, exploring their luxurious hotels, get wet or get tan while at their swimming pools and eat at their various restaurants along the premises.

The InterContinental Moorea Resort and Spa

Also in Tahiti is the InterContinental Moorea Resort and Spa. This remarkable resort offers you an array of special vacation deals such as spa, free-of-charge snorkeling and canoeing. The InterContinental also allows you to either enjoy marvelous excursions or get into shape at their fitness gyms.

The Bora Bora

Fun, excitement, and adventure beyond the imagination- it’s all here in Bora Bora. Several people consider Bora Bora as the number one honeymoon destination because of its romantic vacation packages that include a-night-stay in the Tahiti Le Meridien Hotel and in a room with a view of the diamond-clear lagoon. You can also opt for a five-night-stay at the Bora Bora Le Meridien Hotel overwater bungalow. This bungalow permits you to see the spectacular views of Mount Otemanu.

Sign up for a Bora Bora Travel package and you’ll get six breakfasts and five dinners for two. The excursions include exploration of sharks and sting rays. Receiving flowers, Polynesian sets of jewel, and champagne from Tahiti villagers is a delightful experience you can never forget.


Have you tried cruising?

There’s no reason why you and your lifetime partner can’t get the lavishness out of all the “getting wet fun-filled activities in Tahiti.” Fun is simply everywhere in Tahiti especially when you embark on a cruise for two. Cruising is probably the one best thing to include in your honeymoon itinerary.

Whenever you are in Tahiti, there are romantic voyages offered almost every week and you can choose to board on cruise ships, freighter passenger or super yachts. Today, newlyweds and long-term couples are given the privilege to stay in a luxurious cruise line with first class balcony cabins and meals.

These days, the question to where you celebrate your honeymoon is no longer a problem. There are honeymoon destinations in the world and the islands of Tahiti are no exception to this. What more of a great thing than staying here for days with the love of your life.
Scrub Island: Privately Owned but Publicly Fantastic

Scrub Island: Privately Owned but Publicly Fantastic

Off the eastern tip of Anguilla is uninhabited Scrub Island, about 3 miles square and fun to visit. On the leeward side is a beautiful white sand beach which usually has calm waters. It is the only one in Anguilla that faces completely away from the prevailing winds and seas since Anguilla runs east-west and the winds come from the east.

The interior of Scrub consists of rolling low hills, soft and green more like Scotland than Anguilla. It is an easy walk to the other side of the island. The only inhabitants are wild goats that grow fat in the rainy season and skinny in the dry season but they get water then by eating the pear cactus on the island.

Catch a ride over a glass bottom boat from Shoal Bay or Island Harbour. Or on Keg's wide, stable fishing boat. Or just drop into Smitty's Seaside Bar and Restaurant in Island Harbour. You could also take some cold drinks with you, because there aren't any bars on Scrub Island yet. And there aren't any protected harbours on Scrub either, so it is sometimes impossible to land in high seas.

When you get over, you can just play on the beach in Scrub Bay where you land, or you can take a hike to explore the island. You will need walking shoes or sport sandals. Remember, Scrub Island is private property, except for the beach which is public, like all beaches in Anguilla. So be respectful. Scrub is supposedly uninhabited, but who knows what has happened here over the centuries. There are rumors of wrecked Spanish galleons, and some other unconfirmed history.

In two hours you can hike most of the island and when you make it back to the beach, a dip in the ocean will be very refreshing. That is Scrub Island, Anguilla's private yet flabbergasting place!
Harbour Island: The Best Island in the Caribbean!

Harbour Island: The Best Island in the Caribbean!

Harbour Island is one of the famous tourist destination in the world. It is the ideal vacation destination for pink sand beaches enthusiasts. The island also offers a unique diving experience with undoubtedly luxurious resorts. This Island is one of the Out Islands of the Bahamas.

Known simply as Briland to its residents, Harbour Island, Bahamas, is often called the Nantucket of the Caribbean. The colorfully painted New England-style architecture on the island beautifully compliments the lush palms trees, flower-lined streets and pink sand beaches. This tiny world famous and world class island is a vacation magnet for the rich and famous, savvy travelers and beach vacation seekers alike.

Approximately 3.5 miles long and only 1.5 miles wide, Harbour Island is located just off the tip of Eleuthera, separated by a narrow channel. Regular ferry service shuttles resort and hotels guests as well as daily visitors from North Eleuthera for a day of exploring and shopping the picturesque village of Dunmore Town.

One of the oldest settlements in the Bahamas, Dunmore Town dates back to the 18th century. It was formerly the capital of The Bahamas and second only to Nassau in importance. Dunmore Town was once the summer home of the Royal Governor, Earl of Dunmore, hence the name.

Harbour Island, Bahamas, is famous for its three-mile-long pink beach that runs the entire length of the island on its eastern side. The beach is protected by an outlying coral reef that makes the turquoise clear water one of the safest and most alluring swimming and snorkeling spots in The Bahamas. Adventure vacationers can also seek out these waters for great diving opportunities. Current Cut, for example, offers one of the most thrilling high-current dives in the Caribbean.

Harbour Island, Bahamas, was ranked “The Best Island in the Caribbean” by Travel Leisure magazine and readers of the elite travel magazine rated this tiny gem of The Bahamas Out Islands number one among the islands of the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your things and experience the sensation Harbour Island could give you and your family. Harbour Island, an island not only of adventure but of incomparable beauty and ecstatic sceneries.
Navy Island: A Package of Adventure & Fun!

Navy Island: A Package of Adventure & Fun!

The white sand beaches on Navy Island don't get too crowded when they are open to the public, making this spot a great place to enjoy Jamaica's shores. Navy Island used to boast tranquil beaches and prime underwater viewing for the adventurous type.

Those searching to find a secluded spot in Jamaica could find that Navy Island suits them perfectly. Not too far from any cities, but you won't be too far from the beaten path, you'll discover a great middle ground.

Jamaica's beaches are hardly known for their seclusion, however, this beach is a little more secluded than many, but is not the most urbanized beach. You won't have far to go to reach Navy Island.

For some visitors the level of activity at a beach and its amenities can be the most important attributes. Others feel that getting the chance to spend a day in the sun and experience seclusion is extremely important. There are plenty of beaches in Jamaica, and you may decide that Navy Island is precisely the type of beach you most enjoy.

Location

This delightful beach is located on Jamaica's eastern coast, 0.8 miles from Lighthouse in Port Antonio. Navy Island is close to Berridale, so you can explore the town after your visit to the beach.

Nearby Hotels

The number of other vacationers sharing the beach can vary widely -- it depends on when you visit. The beach is not located next door to any large hotels but it is often visited by visitors from smaller hotels in the area. Those hoping to stay close to this beach can certainly find a spot.

Amenities and Ambiance

Prime attractions on Navy Island are the beaches and accompanying waters, where one can swim and explore the beautiful clear waters, play on the white sand beaches, or indulge in water sport activities. Guests can also choose to stay in the African cottages on the island or dine in some of the casual restaurants, notably the Jamaican dishes at the Admiralty restaurant.

The number of people at the beach is affected by a few things, including the season and time of day. Some of Jamaica's beaches may rarely be crowded, while others are often crowded particularly when tourism season is as its peak. An important thing to remember when considering a day at the beach might be, at least for some vacationers, the crowds you'll meet. While some like a crowded beach with plenty of people and activity, some prefer to just hear the sounds of the surf.

Like many places in Jamaica this beach has a distinctive personality which will attract certain visitors. The special qualities of this beach are rather different from what you'll experience at other beach locations in Jamaica. With a good mix of secluded spots and local entertainment, restaurants, and lodging, Navy Island attracts a healthy size crowd even though it can only be reached by boat.

Attractions

Visiting the beach can be a wonderful way to get close to some of nature's most beautiful works, but there are also other natural sites and attractions worth visiting. Rio Grande Rafting, located 3.2 miles to the southwest of Navy Island, for example, can provide a nice addition to your day at the seaside.

If you're interested in finding out more about the history of Jamaica there are opportunities nearby. For example Lighthouse in Port Antonio is located 0.8 miles to the northeast of Navy Island.

Hence, Navy Island is one package of adventure and fun!
Trinidad: Caribbeans' Place of Pleasure

Trinidad: Caribbeans' Place of Pleasure

Adventure is a normal thing in this place, from hiking through rain forests on the trail of hidden waterfalls and exploring deep caves, to cycling through verdant countryside, turtle watching and kayaking past wildlife filled forests. These are just few of the list that Trinidad actually offers.

Trinidad aside from adventure and fun provides a venue for eco enthusiasts. Trinidad has more than 450 bird species, 108 types of mammals, 55 reptiles, 25 amphibians and 620 types of butterflies; ranking the island as one of the richest outposts of biodiversity in the Caribbean. It's South America in a Caribbean Island. With an abundance of game fish, Trinidad is a sport angler's dream. Fed by the rich outflow of the Orinoco River, Trinidad's waters attract big game fish. Species such as Tarpon, Tuna and Shark are plentiful year round with Sailfish, Marlin, Wahoo and Dolphin making seasonal appearances. Trinidad also plays host to several exciting international fishing tournaments, including the Kingfish Tournament in June, Tarpon Bash in August and Wahoo Tournament in early March.

Trinidad is also home to some of the most diverse and spectacular bird life in the Caribbean. This variety can be attributed to the island's location on the tip of South America. Home to the Asa Wright Nature Centre, a world renowned centre for bird watching, Trinidad's size and accessibility to popular sites, ensures many species can be seen without long drives or treks.

Many countries in the world boast of Carnival celebrations, but none quite so stunning and all embracing as Trinidad's national festival. Whether you decide to be a spectator on the sidelines, douse yourself in chocolate and join the J'Ouvert revelry or don a fabulous costume and dance the day away, our Carnival is an unforgettable experience. The diversity of people is also reflected in the islands' numerous festivals. Each individual culture is celebrated by the collective peoples that inhabit these islands. In Trinidad and Tobago, we celebrate the Hindu festival of Divali, the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitr and numerous Christian festivals, including Christmas.

Trinidad's beauty awakes pleasure in anybody's heart! Truly, a place that is pleasurable!
Tobago: Premier Eco-Tourism Destination

Tobago: Premier Eco-Tourism Destination

Tobago has over 200 bird species on just 116 square miles of land. The island has several great vantage points for bird watching including the Grafton Caledonia Wildlife Sanctuary, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve and Little Tobago Island, a small offshore island located just off the village of Speyside. Tobago is home to over 6000 species of plants and animals, including one of the highest densities of bird species in the world, on just 116 square miles of land.

Aside from its fantastic birds, Tobago is surrounded by rich and colorful reefs with 300 species of South Atlantic coral and more than 600 species of fish. The island is also internationally recognized for its drift dives. Tobago is also home to the Nylon Pool, a warm shallow area in the middle of the Buccoo Reef.

Tobago's rich culture is as diverse as the many countries that fought to control the island. The heritage of the enslaved Africans has also heavily influenced the island's culture. Many of the folktales, superstitions, art, music and traditional dances reflect the island's European and African roots. These are celebrated annually during the Tobago Heritage Festival, which runs from early July to August. Fishing, the mainstay of many of the island's inhabitants, is celebrated with parties, sports and other events on St Peter's Day.

Fought over by the Spanish, British, Dutch, Courlanders, French and even the Americans, Tobago boasts a rich and varied history. The various forts and historical sites that dot the island are testament to the island's former colonial masters and diverse history.

Tobago has many beautiful beaches; some are very secluded others are equipped with life guards, concessionaires and modern facilities. Some beaches boast white sands, shallow bays and calm blue waters, others have shallow reefs for snorkeling and some are more exposed to ocean swells.

The village of Buccoo, Tobago, can be described as the goat and crab racing capital of the world. During the Easter holidays this little village draws crowds of curious onlookers as specially trained goats sprint towards the finish line followed by jockeys clutching long ropes. In the crab race, jockeys have no easier task as they attempt to prod the stubborn crustaceans towards the finish line. But there is no glory for the winning crabs, just a place in a pot of spicy curry sauce.

A premiere eco-tourism destination. Tobago has won several prestigious eco awards including the World Travel Awards "Best Eco Destination in the World" and the Caribbean Travel Awards Committee "#1 Eco-Destination in the Caribbean".
Lime Cay: A Hidden But Precious Gem

Lime Cay: A Hidden But Precious Gem

One of the most admired and hidden gems of Kingston is the uninhabited island Lime Cay which has clear waters and white sand beaches. Located just off the coast of the famous pirate town Port Royal, you can reach there by a short boat ride from Morgan’s Harbor at Port Royal. It is popular place with Jamaican yachtsmen and many locals who visit to relax and feel the ambiance of nature's bounty.

There is no formal transportation to get there unless you have your own boat or get a fisherman to take you there like many of the locals do. Port Royal is now a fishing village so you will find quite a few fishermen on shore returning from their early morning fishing trip. You can bargain price them. There are organized trips though the Morgan’s Harbour Hotel in Port Royal.

This cay was used in the famous the scene in the Jamaican movie Harder They Come where Rhygin the robber was killed by the police. It is a great place for snorkeling and you may even find some old 18 & 19-century trinkets or even treasure. Port Royal was hit by an earthquake the destroyed most of the city and caused it to submerge. As many of you know the city was a base for many of the worlds most famous pirates and they kept treasure there.

The beaches surrounding Lime Cay are inviting. During mid week it is best as there is hardly anyone around. There is plenty of shade and even picnic benches. Bring the suntan lotion and pretend you are on you own little island. There are a few other cays nearby that may also be worth visiting if want to experience the feeling of being on an island alone.

While in Port Royal don't forget to take a tour of what was once the "the wickedest city in the world". It is a shadow of its former self however there are some landmarks that still stand as a reminder like the famous Giddy House landmark.

Its rich unique history and its fantastic sceneries made Lime Cay a gem in the face of the globe.
Curacao: One in a million destination

Curacao: One in a million destination

Experience what makes Curaçao unique and exquisite! Beaches and spectacular diving, stunning architecture, activities and adventures for every interest, plus a multi-cultural diversity, intriguing music, art and cuisine are just few of Curacao's bests.

Located in the tropics, just 12° north of the Equator, Curaçao has a warm, sunny climate year round. The average temperature is about 27° C (in the mid 80s F). Cooling trade winds blow constantly from the east, picking up in the spring months. The rainy season, which is between October and February, is usually marked by short, occasional showers, mostly at night, and continued sunny weather during the day.

Curaçao is a perfect place for diving, but as you will find, our island has so much more to offer. Divers and snorkelers never seem to be able to stop talking about the beauty of Curacao's underwater world. There are dozens of undiscovered adventures to be enjoyed. Ranging from practicing water sports to visiting 17th century architecture sites, from enjoying tennis to enjoying world-class cuisine, from playing golf in our sunny climate to visiting high-standard casinos. So if you are looking for more than just a dive vacation, Curaçao has something out-of-the-ordinary for everybody.

This island offers a great variety of sports activities, for all ages and tastes. From scuba diving, mountain biking and windsurfing for the daring ones, to more relaxed but still very exciting activities such as jeep safaris, sea kayaking and horseback riding.

Curaçao has over 35 beaches with a remarkable variety. Whether you are a sun-loving vacationer or a resident enjoying a day off, you can choose between intimate rocky coves surrounded by massive cliffs or long sandy beaches, either secluded by nature or bustling with activities. The one thing they all share is crystal clear turquoise water and picture-perfect weather.

Curaçao has a modern international airport, and the island is served by a number of airlines. Connections can be made to any part of the world. The Curaçao International Airport boasts the longest runway in the Caribbean at 3,410 meters in length and 60 meters in width. The runway is capable of handling almost any type of aircraft including jumbo jets.

So what are staring at? Relax and chill to Curacao's extraordinary landmarks and fun-filled sceneries!