The Caribbean is full of popular destinations where tourists flock
to spend a few days soaking up the sunshine, but those looking to
escape the crowds may have a slightly different destination in mind.
The Caribbean is often said to have something for everyone, and in this
case the claims are completely true. Vacationers don't need to stay on
popular islands like Jamaica to enjoy a slice of Caribbean life, they
can visit a number of islands that are "off the beaten path."
Major Caribbean destinations are filled with well-known spots where
tourists flock from around the world, but even these islands can have
some out-of-the-way areas. Still, those seeking to travel to someplace
truly unique can find hidden and untouched Caribbean islands to be a
great choice. Islands like tiny Saba or spicy Grenada offer up their
own unique style.
Every island has its own personality, and even the smaller Caribbean
islands can offer more than just seclusion. St. Martin, for example, is
the smallest shared territory in the world: A little more than half of
the island is French (Saint Martin), while the other portion is Dutch
(Sint Maarten). Spend the day enjoying the shopping on the Dutch
portion of the island, but dine in style with the French that evening.
You'll also avoid the crowds you'll find in better-known islands.
Saba, too, is unique. This small, rocky island is better known for its
snorkeling than its beaches. In fact, it's said to have no beach at
all, though there are a few spots where vacationers heart-set on
sunbathing can find water meeting a small stretch of sand. And of
course, its beautiful scenery both above and below the waves can
certainly be worth a look.
Grenada, the Spice Island, is known for its fertile soil that has
helped it become one of the world's top producers of nutmeg. Its
lushness is certain to delight travelers who enjoy taking a trip into
nature and French history also lends a bit of culture, though English
is the official language of the island. This island also has beautiful
beaches for travelers to enjoy. Another unusual aspect of Grenada is
its true nature: Grenada is really three islands, though they are
usually referred to by just the one name. Petit Martinique and
Carriacou are the two tiny islands off Grenada's coast.
Don't confuse this island with any other - Dominica is another
oft-overlooked isle. Its raw beauty has earned it the nickname the
"Nature Island" of the Caribbean and it has remained relatively
untouched over the years. Adventurous travelers can certainly find an
escape in this Eastern Caribbean island, where mountainous terrain
provides the ideal setting for a variety of activities.
Though these are not your only travel options for something a little
different in the Caribbean, they are certainly some of the most
intriguing choices. Travelers planning a true escape to the islands can
find it on these and other islands, all you have to do is take a look
off the beaten track.