Agent Diary: Why I love the Caribbean

I have been lucky enough to visit the Caribbean many times over the years. One of my fondest memories was my very first trip, when I visited as a travel agent with the Barbados tourist board. 

Betty, a local Bajan and representative of the tourist board, was our tour leader. She was bubbly and informative and had a real passion for her home country which was totally infectious.

This memorable trip set the tone for me and I couldn’t wait to discover more that the Caribbean had to offer. I’ll never forget how the sound of reggae music filled the air along the beaches of the lively resorts, yet despite that, there was a feeling of relaxation everywhere I went. I have a feeling that the rum might have added to that sensation too! 

It is well known that it’s the people in the Caribbean who make it so special. Their smiles, courtesy and unwavering desire to make your trip as wonderful as it can be all make the experience – in addition to the beaches, climate and the rest.

Cruise benefits

Barbados has long been a big hit with UK visitors to the Caribbean, but cruise ships have changed how customers choose their Caribbean holiday. Customers are increasingly choosing cruising to experience a variety of Caribbean islands, which means they get a snapshot of several destinations they may want to return to – and I’m finding they’re returning for longer stays after their tasters.

And, of course, many major cruise lines now operate their own private islands, which only adds to the wealth of options and experiences on offer for visitors.

I’ve visited many Caribbean destinations over the years, travelling both by land and sea. My favourites are Barbados, Saint Martin, Aruba, Curaçao and Haiti. Each has its own special highlights.

Another of my most memorable experiences in the Caribbean was volunteering to be part of a turtle-nesting experience, where I got to watch the females birth their emerging baby turtles. Your clients can book such experiences with their hotels, especially in summer, and I’d highly recommend encouraging them to do so.

Other places in the Caribbean I’d recommend are the Bloody Bay Wall Marine Park, which is an incredible diving spot in Little Cayman; Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico; and Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica.

Carnival beats

Oh, and of course, you can’t talk about the Caribbean without mentioning carnival. Nothing beats making yourself an outfit from a square metre of material and getting into the party spirit. The atmosphere is electric as vibrant colours adorn the streets and local artists perform to the beat of merengue, calypso and reggae music.

A word to the wise, however: I’m no expert on rum but I wouldn’t recommend drinking too much of the stuff and deciding to walk the plank on a pirate ship excursion! That’s a story for another day…

Whether you choose the Caribbean for a land-based holiday or to visit several islands on a cruise, you will leave with a huge desire to return. I’m already counting down the days until my next visit.