By Pamela Jacobs
With the winter season in full swing, New Yorkers have several things on their minds: the holidays, the New Year, and perhaps most of all, the winter escape-from-it-all. While there’s a big world out there to see, there’s no place that offers the warmth, tranquility, and proximity of the Caribbean.
Often lumped into one geographical category, i.e. “I’m going to the Caribbean next week,” this area of hundreds of islands within the turquoise Caribbean waters is home to countries that are each unique, each with a distinct personality that sets it apart from its neighbors.
Just as inviting as each island’s uniqueness and level of paradise is the ease with which a New Yorker in a hurry can arrive and let the good times begin. American Airlines flies to the Caribbean from JFK so often and so easily, it’s as if you’re taking a commuter train—except you’re going for fun, not work. However, with so many islands to choose from, and so many places American Airlines can quickly transport you to, it might be difficult to choose. We’ve narrowed it down to our top five Caribbean destinations—each unique and delightful, and each easily reached by American Airlines out of JFK. Within no time you’ll be sipping your favorite island drink and worrying about nothing more than reapplying your sunblock.
1. Saint-Martin // Sint Maarten
If forced to narrow this lovely island down into one brief description that captures its personality, it would be called “the dual culture” island. Although there’s much more to it than just that. There are two sides to the country, the Dutch Side and the French Side, and you’ll know immediately which side you are on—it’s recommended to experience both sides, as one is not better than the other, just different. Interestingly, it is the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations. Its 37 square miles are owned by France and the Netherlands Antilles.
If you like larger resorts, gambling, hot nightclubs, and partying until the wee hours, it’s Dutch Sint Maarten you seek. If instead your vacation preference is boutique hotels, quieter bars and restaurants, and French food galore, you’ll be happier in French Saint-Martin. Either way, you’ll marvel at the crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and friendly locals who are proud of their country, and rightly so. In fact, Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten is the most visited of the Leeward Islands.
French Saint-Martin is larger than Dutch Sint Maarten (it’s about 2/3 of the island), but most things are done on a smaller scale. Small charming towns house small boutiques, restaurants, and patisseries with French names. Marigot is the capital, and here’s you’ll find an array of restaurants and bars, outdoor markets, and cafes offering up local fare. You’ll love the way French cuisine is perfectly married with Caribbean flavors and specialties, making for some of the most sophisticated island dining anywhere.
For adventure on the French side, you can zipline at Loterie Farm, or rent ATV’s to explore the island’s natural beauty and stunning beaches. Be sure to take a boat to Pinel Island, a small island that has one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere.
Those looking for excitement, vibrant nightlife, and action will love Dutch Sint Maarten’s energy and exuberance. Coupled with the gorgeous beaches and friendly people, it’s great for singles and families looking for fun in a tropical setting. Philipsburg, the Dutch capital since 1768, is known for its beautiful colonial architecture; the town began as a Dutch trading center and still holds reminders of this influence.
Dutch Sint Maarten is home to various large resorts which house nightclubs and bars that stay open very late, making this part of the island perfect for party animals and singles. There are nine European-style casinos, which are both sophisticated and fun; two of the most popular are Casino Royale and Atlantis Casino, which stay open until 4am.
Whichever side you stay on, you’ll easily fall in love with the warmth and friendliness of both sides, and the tropical paradise that both sides boast. In fact, there’s no need to choose sides: explore both, and be an equal opportunity vacationer.
Where to Stay :
La Samanna, French Saint-Martin:
www.lasamanna.com
Le Domaine de Lonvilliers,
French Saint-Martin:
www.hotel-le-domaine.com
Radisson Blu Resort Marina & Spa,
Dutch Sint Maarten:
www.radissonblu.com
The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, Dutch Sint Maarten:
www.starwoodhotels.com
Where to Eat:
Café de Paris:
www.cafedeparis.sxm
Le Reservé:
www.lasamanna.com
Les Boucaniers:
lesboucaniers-sxm@wanadoo.fr
Getting There:
WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES
Daily non-stop service from New York
leaving JFK 7:00AM
arriving SXM 12:15PM
Twice daily non-stop flights from Miami, leaving MIA 11:00AM
arriving SXM at 2:50PM &
leaving MIA 05:10PM,
arriving at SXM 9:00PM
Daily service from San Juan, Puerto Rico leaving SJU at 1:30PM
arriving SXM at 2:30PM
2. St. Kitts // Nevis
This is where you go when you want to get away from it all, dress casually, and perfect the art of doing nothing. A trip to the twin-island federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is like getting two for the price of one: two amazing islands, one magical, friendly, easygoing country.
Located in the eastern Caribbean in the northern Leeward Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis are separated by a two mile wide channel—visitors fly into St. Kitts with American Airlines, and can reach Nevis, its even more laid back sister island, by boat. Boasting year round average temperatures of 80 degrees, with 12 hours of sunshine a day, the small island of St. Kitts (only 36,000 people reside there) offers a true paradise to those who need nothing more than good weather, great beaches, friendly locals, and delicious cocktails.
History buffs find St. Kitts to be as interesting as it is beautiful. After Christopher Columbus sailed past the little island in 1493, it was named “St. Christopher,” after Columbus’s patron saint, and the name was later shortened to St. Kitts by the English. For years, St. Kitts was inhabited by both the British and the French, making it the first permanent settlement of both countries in the Western Hemisphere. The British officially took it over in 1783 under the Treaty of Versailles, and it wasn’t until 1983 that it became an independent nation.
For those looking for a bit more than lying on the beach, there’s plenty to do. Wander through the capital city of Basseterre and discover Independence Square, the National Museum, and Government House. Head to Brimstone Hill fortress, the only man-made UNESCO site in the eastern Caribbean, and to the popular attractions of Black Rocks, Bloody Point, and the Carib Indian Petroglyphs. Those looking for natural wonders can explore the country’s tropical rainforests on the lush slopes of Mt. Liamuiga. Remarkably, St. Kitts has one of the few rainforests in the world that has actually grown over the past 25 years.
Of course, no Caribbean island lacks water sports, and St. Kitts is no exception. Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving are first-class here, with the offerings of a multitude of perfect beaches. Wave-lovers find the rougher seas of the Atlantic to be their style, while those who prefer calmer waters head to the Caribbean side. On the northern beaches vacationers are often delighted to find volcanic black sand majestically beside crystal clear waters, making for picture-perfect moments.
There are so many things that make St. Kitts and Nevis unique; indeed, there are too many to name. When you do visit, don’t leave without seeing the Crater Lake at the summit of Mt. Liamuija (which stands 3,792 feet tall)—here you’ll discover a magnificent lake emitting hot steam from the mountain’s interior, and views so breathtaking you’ll wonder how it took you so long to make it there.
The list could go on and on, but if there’s one more thing you absolutely must try before leaving, it’s this: the famous, delicious, utterly intoxicating “killer bee” rum punch at Sunshine’s Beach Bar and Grill on the Four Seasons beach in Nevis. Just remember, if you have more than two, you might want to take a lot of pictures, as you may not remember the rest of the night.
Where to Stay:
Ottley’s Plantation Inn, St. Kitts:
www.ottleys.com
St. Kitts Marriot Resort and Royal Beach Casino,
St. Kitts: www.marriot.com
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Nevis:
www.nisbetplantation.com
The Four Season, Nevis:
www.fourseasons.com/nevis
Where to Eat:
Spice Mill Restaurant, St. Kitts:
www.spicemillrestaurant.com
Beach House Restaurant, St. Kitts:
www.stkittsbeachhouse.com
Restaurant la Belle Vie, St. Kitts:
www.labellevie-stkitts.com
Getting There:
WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES
Non-stop service twice per week from New York
leaving JFK at 7:50AM
arriving SKB at 1:20PM
Operates Wednesday and Sunday ONLY
Daily non-stop service from Miami
leaving MIA at 10:55AM
arriving SKB at 2:50PM
Daily service from San Juan, Puerto Rico
leaving SJU at 1:55PM
arriving SKB at 3:05PM
3. Jamaica
Anyone who’s been to Jamaica knows that it has a flavor and personality all its own, and that when you’re in Jamaica, you know you couldn’t be anywhere else. Perhaps it’s the reggae, or the jerk chicken, or that unmistakable accent, coupled with the “all is good” attitude. Those looking for fun in the sun, and into the wee hours, will find it in Jamaica, and it’s as popular with families and young people as it is with honeymooners. What they all have in common is that they want to have a good time, and they don’t need quiet tranquility all the time.
Jamaica is the third largest English speaking Caribbean island at 4,244 square miles, and is heavily populated, with 2,758,124 residents. It’s a lush, lovely, utterly beautiful island with dramatic cliffs, valleys, coastlines, coves, reefs, waterfalls, and other natural playgrounds. With all this, it’s no wonder Americans love going to Jamaica to play.
Based on a long history of outside rule and a conflux of cultures, Jamaica, which gained independence in 1962, is rich in culture and heritage. The national motto, “Out of Many, One People,” can be seen, heard, and tasted throughout the land. Enjoy the flavors of jerk meats, saltfish and ackee with pickapeppa sauce, and of course, exotic tropical fruits (and drinks!). Then head to a reggae club where the spirit of Bob Marley comes to life with every song.
Flying American Airlines into Montego Bay, one of the island’s most popular and most beautiful areas, tourists will find an array of options nearby. This is where you’ll find some of the top resorts and restaurants, and some of the best beaches anywhere. Doctor’s Cave Beach is an ideal spot for families and those looking for a quieter beach experience—no radios, footballs, or vendors allowed. Of course, those looking for a livelier experience will find plenty of that as well. What all of these Riviera-style beaches have in common is their pure, natural beauty.
Activities are aplenty in Montego Bay, so there’s no way to be bored. Head to Croydon on the Mountains, a working plantation with breathtaking panoramic views, or ride horses along the beach at Rocky Point Stables at Half Moon. Also at Half Moon, you can experience swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove, while those looking for haunted history seek the ghost of Annie Palmer at Rose Hall Great House. Montego Bay is the perfect destination for those looking for lots to see, do, and explore.
As Christopher Columbus declared, upon seeing Jamaica for the first time, “it is the fairest isle that eyes have beheld; mountainous and the land seems to touch the sky.” You’ll probably agree with him.
Where to Stay:
Half Moon Resort, Montego Bay:
www.halfmoon.com
Round Hill Hotel and Villas Resort, Montego Bay: www.roundhilljamaica.com
The Ritz Carlton Golf Resort & Spa,
Rose Hall, Jamaica, Montego Bay:
www.ritzcarlton.com
Where to Eat:
Sugar Mill Restaurant, Montego Bay:
www.halfmoon.com
Marguerite’s, Montego Bay:
876.952.4777
The Houseboat Grill, Montego Bay:
www.thehouseboatgrill.com
Getting there:
WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES
Non-stop service six times per week from New York
leaving JFK at 8:40AM
arriving at MBJ at 1:05PM
Three daily flights from Miami
leaving MIA at 9:50AM
arriving MBJ at 11:25AM
leaving MIA at 1:15PM
arriving MBJ at 02:55PM
leaving MIA at 7:50PM
arriving MBJ at 09:25PM
4. Barbados
Barbados is known by its regular visitors as one of the friendliest islands. Here, you’ll find locals and ex-pats who are proud of their beautiful home and happy to show it off. Its personality is good-natured graciousness.
Everywhere you look you’ll also find beauty at its most natural and stunning. Driving along the roads of this island, you’ll want to stop and take pictures every two minutes. Cliffs give way to vistas overlooking dramatic beaches, on which the sand is some of the softest you’ll ever feel. The diving and snorkeling lets visitors know that what’s underneath the sea is just as spectacular as what’s on the surface.
One of the most pleasant things to do in Barbados is exploring the island’s different provinces, each of which is as unique as the country itself. Bridgetown is the capital and the most bustling city that houses the government, while St. Lawrence Gap is small, energetic, and colorful, and a great place for nightlife. Holetown is home to sophisticated lounges and bars, such as Lexy Piano Bar & Cabaret. Throughout the island, rum bars offer up the island’s local libation and offer windows into the neighborhoods’ unique flavor and feel.
If it’s history and culture you want, it’s history and culture you shall have. Head to St. Nicholas Abbey, dating back to 1658, which served as a residence and sugar plantation, and is now a rum factory. And speaking of rum, be sure to check out the Mount Gay Rum Factory, where you can tour the facilities, and, perhaps best of all, sample their fine products. Barbados, which gained independence from the British in 1966, has a wealth of culture, history, and personality all its own.
A visit to Barbados will not be complete without spending a night at Oistins Fish Fry, one of the most popular scenes on the island, for good reason. Here, locals and tourists alike mingle, eat, drink, and party through the night, all of which showcases just how friendly Barbados is. You’ll love the open-air atmosphere alongside the ocean, where local vendors sell delicious fresh fish and Bajan specialties, as well as jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs. Every Friday night at Oistins is a party like nowhere else.
Barbados happens to be the only Zagat rated Caribbean island, so arrive there hungry. There are some amazing restaurants to be found throughout the different provinces. Also, do not leave without trying the Bajan cherry juice, which is the most delicious juice and a powerful antioxidant.
Barbados is an island for those looking for warmth (not just the temperature), friendliness, and hospitality. It’s got a little bit of something for everyone, and is as beautiful as anything you can imagine, but it is the residents that make it really something special.
Where to Stay:
The Crane:
www.thecrane.com
Sandy Lane:
www.sandylane.com
Coral Reef Club:
www.coralreefbarbados.com
Where to Eat:
Pisces: www.piscesbarbados.com
Zen: www.thecrane.com
Josef: www.josefbarbados.com
Getting There:
WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES
Daily non-stop flight from New York
leaving JFK at 8:00AM
arriving BGI at 1:50PM
Two daily non-stop flights from Miami
leaving MIA at 9:55AM
arriving BGI at 2:25PM
leaving MIA at 7:20PM
arriving BGI at 11:50PM
5. St. Lucia
St. Lucia, a little island with a whole lot of beauty and charm, is known as the Caribbean destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a significant other, on a honeymoon, with kids in tow, or with your single friends, you’ll find something in St. Lucia that catches your attention.
It’s home to an active volcano (the Soufriere volcano), making it a bit exciting and adventurous, as well as the striking Piton Mountains, which give drama and grandeur to its landscape. It’s known as one of the most naturally beautiful of the Caribbean islands (and there’s some tough competition), so if you want nothing more than eye candy, you’ll find it there. After all, waterfalls, lush landscapes, mountains, palm-fringed beaches, and unspoiled rainforests are hard to take for granted. St. Lucia’s Marigot Bay has been called “the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean.”
St. Lucia is also one of the more laid-back islands—those looking for relaxation and tranquility are quite happy here. However, that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of activity. It’s just activity of the more casual, down-to-earth variety.
If you really want to get to know St. Lucia, explore it through the Heritage Tourism Programme, which showcases the culture of the island, through programs such as catching crayfish with locals, observing traditional cassava making, and exploration of local nature parks. If you love eco-adventures, try a rainforest hike, Debaras turtle watching, ziplining, or climbing the Pitons. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with lying on the gorgeous beach all day if you want too. They won’t blame you.
Being the island with something for everyone, you’ll probably find exactly what you are looking for in terms of accommodations: small and romantic, all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious, they’re all in St. Lucia. What you won’t find are overly crowded beaches and spring-breakers. For spa-lovers, St. Lucia is a gem, as the Soufriere volcano offers mineral-rich mud and steam baths that are natural beauty and relaxation enhancers. So you’ll leave St. Lucia looking and feeling better.
If you’re torn between what type of vacation you want, or arguing with your travel-mate on where to go, chances are, you’ll find a bit of everything in St. Lucia.
Where to Stay:
Jade Mountain, St. Lucia:
www.jademountain.com
Cap Maison:
www.capmaison.com
Ladera:
www.ladera.com
Where to Eat:
The Great House:
www.thegreathouserestaurant.com
Treehouse Restaurant:
www.ansechastanet.com
Dasheene Restaurant:
www.ladera.com
Getting There:
WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES
Non-stop service from New York four times per week
leaving JFK at 7:20AM
arriving UVF at 1:15PM
Operates Tues/Thur/Fri/Sun
Daily service from Miami
leaving MIA at 10:55AM
arriving UVF at 3:15PM
Daily service from San Juan
leaving SJU at 8:55PM
arriving SLU at 10:50PM
