“We travel not to escape life but for life not to escape us.”

Beaches are one of the most popular places to be when the summer season arrives. All around the world, beaches everywhere are flocked with tourists and locals who are basking in the glory of the sun. Among the many islands that are famous the world over, the Caribbean occupy a special spot. When you hear the word the Caribbean, your mind is overpowered by the breathtaking scenery, the tropical islands, the serene blue waters and the sand reflecting the rays of the sun. It is composed of hundreds of mesmerising islands some of which are quite famous as destinations for vacations such as the Dominican Republic, Aruba, Jamaica and the Bahamas.

Here are a few reasons why you should be making preparations to spend your summer holidays on one such Caribbean Island.

1. Experience France without going to France: In the year 1674, the Caribbean Islands were annexed by France. Therefore, the islands still have the French vibe which is especially visible in the case of gastronomy. Some of the indigenous Caribbean dishes have been created by the chefs who have had their culinary schooling from France. The champagne that is served at hotels or sold is mostly from France.

2. Snorkelling and Diving: If you are into water sports, then Caribbean islands will be your go-to place. There are a large number of options when it comes to places to which you can go diving and snorkeling. The Caribbean waters contain a myriad of incredible marine flora and fauna. Some of the rare creatures you’ll find here include nose dolphins, rainbow-colored tropical fish amongst the sea turtles, rays, and corals. Don’t worry about where to start from as there are a lot of places from which you can rent equipment at reasonable prices and get trained if it is the first time you are trying the sport. The sea waters are clear as a blue crystal, and the visibility is high which makes discovering the coral reefs and admiring the wildlife a lot of fun.

3. A place to stay: The Caribbean islands are brimming with places where you can stay. Each place is a little different, and you can easily find a one that has just what you need. From a place for your family, to a place where you can spend a romantic time with your special someone, the Caribbeans have everything. You can choose to stay at the places located in the UNESCO world heritage site. If you are on a budget, then you can opt to stay at the huts renting hammocks at the National Natural Park.

4. The lively festivals: The Caribbean islands are a beautiful and colorful place. You can feel the liveliness and the zest for life in the atmosphere of the islands. The festivals celebrated here reflect this spirit along with the cultural diversity and the rich history of the region. The carnival that is held on the Trinidad and Tobago islands is a fantastic event to attend. From a myriad of colors all over the place with the backdrop of steel drums being played to dancing and partying all night, you will end up having the time of your life. St. Lucia music festivals, Jamaica Reggae Festivals, and the Barbados Jazz are some of the music festivals that you can attend.

5. The breathtaking sunset views: The colors of the carnival fade in their beauty when it comes to the Caribbean sunset which uses the sky as the canvas to paint every possible color all across it. The hues reflecting from the surface of the Caribbean waters make you feel like if there is a place called heaven, this is it. Once you see the sunset, there is no way it will get out of your mind anytime soon. Just grab a cocktail in your hand and bask in the glory of the setting sun.

6. The food!: Remember how we told you about the French connection of the food you eat in the Caribbean. Well, add to that the authentic Caribbean flavor and you get yourself a treat. There is an endless range of restaurants which offer food for every palate. The seafood is a delight to have while the traditional Caribbean delicacies are a fantastic blend of the European, East Indian, African, Amerindian and Chinese cuisine giving you the best of each. If you are a spice lover you will never want to go back because Caribbean food is known for its hotness.

Have a good vacation! Ciao!