When you’re looking to really unwind and relax while you’re on vacation, there’s one destination that almost always comes to mind first… We’re talking about the Caribbean, of course! It’s a region that’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, stunning resorts, and so much more. Simply put, when you’re taking a vacation in the Caribbean, you really and truly are getting away from it all.
However, the Caribbean is a popular region of the world. And so the people that inhabit the Caribbean have devised ways of entrapping unwitting tourists into experiences that are decidedly expensive and usually pretty inauthentic.
Now, if you’re heading to the Caribbean for your own vacation, you don’t want to have that experience do you? Of course not! That’s exactly why we’ve put this list together. On it, we’re going to share 10 tourist traps you’re likely to encounter in the Caribbean. After each, we’re going to share something that you can do instead of wasting your time and money at that tourist trap.
All told, this list should help you to get the Caribbean vacation you’ve long been dreaming of… Let’s take a look!
1. Atlantis Paradise Island
While this massive resort has plenty to offer the vacationing family, you’re also getting something of a sterilized experience here.
2. INSTEAD: Anywhere Else
You came to the Caribbean to really get away from it all, so why not pick a place to stay that’s not like a glorified amusement park?
3. Nassau
If you’re going to the Bahamas, you should naturally check out Nassau. However, don’t assume that’s all there is…
4. INSTEAD: Andros
Why not check out the least developed island in the Bahamas in order to get a real flavor for island living?
5. Only Beaching
Naturally you’re going to be spending a lot of time on the beach, but don’t make that the end-all-be-all of your Caribbean vacation.
6. INSTEAD: Explore!
There are some truly stunning places to check out. For example, why not see what’s happening at Mount Scenery on Saba?
7. Surfing Lessons
If you’ve always wanted to learn, then give it a shot. But, you’re not going to be pro-level after a week.
8. INSTEAD: Snorkeling
A Caribbean vacation is about relaxing. So why not go snorkeling and check out how life is lived under the waves?
9. Resort Beach Dinner
So, you’re vacationing with your honey, and you want to do something romantic. This can work, but if you really want to up the romance…
10. INSTEAD: Mille Privée
Then you’ve got to go to this stunning restaurant on Nevis, which just might be one of the most romantic restaurants in the world.
11. Boat Tour
You can pay good money to head on the boat, and you’ll probably have a good time. But did you know about…
12. INSTEAD: St. Kitts Scenic Railway
That’s right! There’s an amazing railway tour you can take on St. Kitts, one which will really give you an appreciation for Caribbean topography.
13. The Cruise Port
As a general rule, it’s almost always best to avoid cruise ports if you’re looking to avoid tourist traps.
14. INSTEAD: A Remote Island
As such, remember there are plenty of remote islands on which you can stay, ones that offer a more intimate and relaxing experience.
15. Cheap Accommodations
More so than many places you might visit, the quality of your accommodations will determine your overall experience in the Caribbean.
16. INSTEAD: Splurge A Bit
When it comes to booking a place to stay, be willing to spend a little bit. You get more bang for your buck, especially if you stay at a place like Hotel Chocolat.
17. The Resort Restaurants
The resort restaurants are no doubt convenient places to eat, however is that all you want to experience?
18. INSTEAD: Local Restaurants
Don’t be afraid to try a number of the local restaurants around you. You may be surprised by the flavors and aromas.
19. The Hotel Gift Shop
Just the same, don’t visit the hotel or resort gift shop when it’s time to pick up souvenirs to bring home.
20. INSTEAD: Local Markets
Instead, venture out to the local shops and markets to find something that will really encapsulate your vacation experience.
