There are those who love the fall and winter, who adore nestling down in luxuriant throws or donning decadent coats and hats; who revel in the ski season and the concept of fireplace-warmed chalets. Then there are those who crave an escape to warmer climes. If itās the latter option you seek ā the heat of the sun upon skin, the sound of the ocean lapping upon white sandy shores, and a delicious cocktail never far from hand ā there really is no more superior choice of destination than the Caribbean. When you work hard all year long, to leave the madness of the winter holiday season behind to spoil yourself (away from festively fevered families or overly competitive skiers and snowboarders) is a simple, but attainable luxury you fully deserve.
Which Island?
With over 7,000 islands to choose from in the Caribbean, deciding which suits your needs best is not as easy a process as it might first seem. For instance, Jamaica offers plenty of couplesā resorts, but that doesnāt help if youāre newly single. Conversely, the Bahamas are the most obvious choice for families, due in no small part to the size of the resorts there (wholly different an experience from the cliff-top dining and simple pleasures of dramatic views that St. Lucia has to offer).
In short, you have to do your homework when it comes to deciding which paradise island getaway is right for you. Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are a fantastic choice for those who thrive on late-night reveling, but if youāre accompanied by children or donāt care to pay for near city-type vibrancy when youāve traveled so far for peace and quiet, then these islands probably arenāt a match for your personal needs. Donāt settle; instead, ensure youāre traveling to a place youāre going to be happy to vacation.
Why Just One?
Of course, you can always overcome the burden of having to pick just one island if, instead of flying down, you book one of the many Caribbean cruises available. That way, like a wonderfully decadent tasting menu, you can sample a range of experiences. Do, however, bear in mind the larger the vessel, the fewer ports it will fit (i.e. be able to visit). Research all options available to you, and ensure the cruise you select visits your preferred points of interest.
Beyond the Beach
Of course, once your preferred destination (or selection) has been settled upon, there then arises the question of which hotel should you stay in. From exclusive, large and long-established beach hotels to more modern niche boutiques, the Caribbean is replete with luxurious options in hospitality. Not only that, but the range of activities on offer is near-endless, too. Escaping to a paradise island is not just about snoozing on the sand. Indeed, just because you left winter proper behind doesnāt mean you canāt beat the ski aficionados at their own sporting game: the water sports scene is positively vibrant in the Caribbean.
Wherever you decide upon for your winter sun getaway, you can be certain it will be relaxing and wholly luxurious in that particular way only the Caribbean seems to have. It must be the sea air.
Doreen Pendgracs
What a wonderful post!~ The Caribbean is one of my favourite places on earth. So many different islands to explore. I love them all. Grenada and St. Lucia are two of my favourites as they are both great chocolate destinations. š
Doreen Pendgracs recently posted…Barry Callebaut Chocolate Academy helps chocolatiers learn and grow
Carmen Edelson
Oh yes, amazing chocolate!! Thanks for your lovely comment š
carrie @ frugal foodie mama
I am definitely one of those folks that likes to escape the cold & snow in the winter! š My husband & I honeymooned in Puerto Rico, but I would love to explore more islands in the Caribbean.
carrie @ frugal foodie mama recently posted…3 Easy Steps to a Crowd-Pleasing Homegating Platter
Carmen Edelson
Puerto Rico is lovely! I’m praying for their recovery every day.
Kate - Travel for Difference
I’ve always wanted to travel to the Caribbean around Christmas time… Even though it’s hot in Australia during this time of year, there’s something about soaking in the warm tropical rays during a time of total madness that just is sooooo inviting XXX
Kate – Travel for Difference recently posted…WALKING THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA
Carmen Edelson
Yes, I know just what you mean! It’s extremely inviting š
Francesca
I’m one of those people who loves fireplace-warmed chalets š Also, we’re really not beach people so we haven’t looked much at traveling to the Caribbean. We’re not opposed, but perhaps our best option is to do a cruise.
Carmen Edelson
Yes, a cruise would be a great option! There’s so much to see and do on the ship.
Lara Dunning
When the PNW rain and cold sets in we all dream of warm weather destinations. I would love to explore the Carribean and soak up some sun to cure the winter blues.
Lara Dunning recently posted…October in La Conner, WA ā Brew on the Sough and the Hotel Planter
Carmen Edelson
Yes, it really does cure the winter blues!!
Via Bella
I will have to keep this in mind as I really need a personal retreat. I love the look of the Caribbean and been to cancun once.
Carmen Edelson
It’s a perfect place to escape the winter cold!
Linda Lou
What a wonderful post! Have you ever been to Curacao? The Dutch Caribbean island truly has the best weather during the fall and winter.
Carmen Edelson
No but I’m absolutely putting it on my list! Thanks š