Go On Partnered Nature Hikes
Wheres a better place to go hiking than in the tropics? One of my favorite ways to enjoy free fun, hiking can replenish the soul all the while taking in new scenery and enjoying fresh air away from the city.
Put on your hiking boots, grab your camera, fill up your water bottle, and hike for as long and as far as you can.
Take Yourself Out On A Self
All the islands have unique and deep culture and history that is especially seen in some of the older cities. Ask your hostel host about good spots to hit up in the city, download a digital map and get lost in the culture!
Be sure toapp so that you are able to find your way back to your accommodation safely.
Caribbean Holidays For Families
For a Caribbean holiday that suits the entire family, Turks and Caicos offer truly stunning scenery as a backdrop for all the activities youd expect from a top destination, or Jamaica is a more bustling alternative. Horseback ride along the smooth Jamaican shores, venture down the Rio Grande on a raft, climb the picturesque Dunns River Falls for unsurpassed views, or test your balance with a banana boat ride. For a more active Caribbean holiday, the Bahamas draw in tourists seeking world-class sailing conditions, and the coral reefs nearby make the area a favourite with divers.
To explore a little of Caribbean culture, if you can drag yourself from the beach, Barbados is scattered with Gothic churches and ornate buildings, or practice your best Johnny Depp impression in one of the towering pirate castles. Alternatively, if youd rather shop than sightsee and no holiday to the Caribbean is complete without some shopping, both Bermuda and the Bahamas offer unrivalled opportunities to discover a bargain. In fact, holidaymakers looking for cheap clothing are frequently drawn to Bermuda for its lack of sales tax.
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Our Pick For A Budget Hotel In St Kitts: Royal St Kitts Hotel
Located within walking distance of Frigate Bay Beach, Royal St. Kitts Hotel is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who dont want to compromise on beach access. Other property perks include two outdoor pools with loungers and on-site restaurants.
The larger and more populated of the two islands comprising Trinidad and Tobago, Trinidad has plenty in store for travelers, from lively cities to coral reefs to remote rainforests teeming with biodiversity. Winter is an opportune time to visit Trinidad for several reasons. First off, hurricane season has passed and the island enjoys ample sunshine and limited rainfall. Also, the world-renowned Carnival celebration is set for the week of February 19 through 26 in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobagos capital. The festivities include street parades of masqueraders and traditional characters, a steel-pan band competition, and late-night dancing to soca music. While many of the performers invest significant funds in their costumes, participating is free, though sporting something more festive and flamboyant is encouraged.
Winter flights to Trinidad are some of the most affordable from the United States. The five-hour direct flight from New York will only set you back $363. Flights from Chicago and Washington, D.C. will require a layover in Miami, but can be had for under $400 each.
Cheap Caribbean Vacations To Book In 2022
Travel to the Caribbean is popular all year , and it doesn’t have to break the bank no matter when you go.
From late April through May, thereâs a high chance of some rain each day, while June and July will see short bursts of rain followed by bright, sunny skies. August brings tropical heat, humidity, and thunderstorms that continue into September, when both prices and crowds take a big dip. In October, the rain settles down, with lots of sunshine amidst only occasional rain. November through early December is dry, warm, and sunny, with a low chance of thunderstorms.
No matter the weather and region you choose, though, these 12 Caribbean islands offer gorgeous beaches, exciting attractions, rich cultures and delicious food, all at prices thatâll easily fit your â22 travel budget.
Want more ideas? Read our guide to where to go in 2022, check out the world’s cheapest destinations, or find the best destinations for your first international trip.
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Chill At The Rythm Of Reggae In Jamaica
Although this beautiful destination no longer has any Worldpackers opportunities available at the current moment, it is imperative I write a little about it as I am Jamaican-American .
Sitting at one of the larger islands, Jamaica is known for its reggae culture, jerk sauce, Bob Marley, and good vibes.
Negril is a top tourist destination for a reason. The hot sun, good food, and crystal clear water are all the more reasons why to visit. You can stay at hostels for about USD9 per night.
If youre interested in seeing the Jamaican city life and want to check out the Bob Marley Museum, be sure to swing by Kingston. This capital city has a lot of history and opportunities for the local people which is the most populated city of the country. Stay at the Raggamuffin Hostelin the city center to meet people from all over the world!
Know more about Jamaica and the best islands in the Caribbean to visit.
Reggaeton Savings In Jamaica
Known all over the world for its bouncing reggae tunes and high-flying bobsled team, Jamaica is among the easiest and cheapest Caribbean spots to reach from the mainland US. There are countless low-cost fliers running routes from hubs like Miami and New York to Montego Bay airport. From there, it’s a quick transfer to condos and villas in Negril and Ocho Rios, which have got some of the very best beaches on the island.
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Our Top Pick For A Dominican Republic Hotel: Paradisus Punta Cana
This sprawling, 683-room property still manages to feel uncrowded due to its expansive grounds. Guests can walk or hitch rides on the regular shuttle to reach the beach, pools, spa, yoga studio and impressive restaurants around the resort. However, its worth noting that the beach comes alive at night with a party scene that appeals to young and old guests.
Why Should You Book A Vacation Package To The Caribbean
The Caribbean is a mosaic of islands with a diverse culture and heritage. They have white sandy beaches, green forests, and clear blue seas. After choosing a Caribbean island as your preferred destination, why not opt for a vacation package? The cost is calculated and billed in advance to fit your budget and preferences, letting you set money aside for spending on fun.
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Be Strategic With Resorts
Even if you found a great deal on resort accommodations, it doesnt mean you have to do everything through the resort. Think of the resort like your printer at home it was sold cheap because the printer company makes its money selling you extras like ink cartridges. The same applies to resorts once they have you in the room, they plan to make their profit by selling you pricey services and extras.
The resort activities desk is one big profit center. Use an independent-activities vendor out on the beach instead. For tours, look for online reviews of local residents offering trips that are more fun and more personable than the resort offerings.
Drink and eat independently. That inviting beach bar or cafe is probably using the same rum in its drinks as the resort but charging much less. The same goes for that seafood platter or oozing cheeseburger.
Planning a special event like a wedding? The resort can arrange a memorable event that youll never forget, at least as long as youre still paying it off. Instead, find out online what you need to do to get a marriage license and then exchange vows at the beach of your choice.
Cheap Caribbean Islands That Wont Break The Bank
When looking to soak up a cheap Caribbean vacation, first and foremost youll want to banish that pricey hotel room. Instead, opt for a villa rental where you can split the cost into an affordable, per person nightly rate. Share with your family and friends, for the ultimate luxurious experience! Who thought you could have exclusivityand affordability in one sentance? You can with Top Villas.
Read on for our most affordable Caribbean Islands, listed in order of budget-saving kudos.
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For Budget Vacations In The Caribbean:
The Rincon Of The Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel is located in Puerto Rico. It has beach access, tropical gardens, and an outdoor poolside bar. Any 2 children under 13 years of age can vacation with their parents in the same room at no extra cost, courtesy of sofa beds.
The Holiday Inn Resort Grand Cayman is a beachfront hotel with a scenic view of the ocean. It’s located 5 1/2 miles from the Owen Roberts International Airport and 1 mile from the North Sound Golf Club. The rooms are equipped with coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. Relax in the pool bar after a session in the fitness room or tennis court.
All Inclusive Holidays Caribbean
Our all-inclusive holidays to the Caribbean offer excellent value on trips to the beautiful islands. Breathtaking beaches, delicious cuisine and a plethora of water sports are on offer on every island. With over 7,000 islands in total, the Caribbean is made up of 13 sovereign states and 17 territories. From the Bahamas and Cuba to Aruba and Grenada, a wide range of experiences are available on Caribbean holidays from lastminute.com.
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Punta Cana And The Dominican Republic
There are also oodles of flight deals to be had to Punta Cana, the main vacationing hub of the Dominican Republic. Ticket costs drop and rates in rentals will plummet after spring break and Christmas, too, so you can often get somewhere near celebrated Bavaro Beach at a good price. Alternatively, you might want to think about a stay in Santo Domingo, the capital, where you can wander cobbled UNESCO areas and uncover stories of Christopher Columbus’s brother. Up north, Samana Bay has whale watching and some affordable Caribbean cottages.
The Mexican Yucatan Is A Doozy
Okay, so it’s not an island, but it does have islands, and it spills straight from the jungles into the pearly blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. That’s the Yucatan Peninsula, the easternmost edge of Mexico. Of course, Cancun is the spot that takes the headlines. Great deals are usually on offer up and down its Hotel Zone. South of that is Tulum, home to temple-topped headlands and celebrated beaches. And if you’re after a real island experience? Cozumel is always there, laced with coral reefs and small casitas for rent.
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Package Tours For Island Hopping
Our final strategy is taking advantage of package tours, which are predominantly cruises that visit multiple ports. Despite their unsavory reputation as being virus Petri dishes, I will be remiss if I do not mention Caribbean cruises as a viable option to save a decent amount of cash.
Essentially, once we have successfully developed herd immunity and a large percentage of the population is vaccinated, joining cruises is a terrific way to visit several islands without breaking the bank.
Costco.com routinely offers a wide range of low-cost Caribbean cruises.
Cheap Caribbean Cruises scours the web for the cheapest available cruises.
Cruise Cheap year-round discounts for cruises around the globe.
Travel Zoo periodically releases deeply discounted tours.
How To Visit The Caribbean On A Budget
Lonely Planet Writer
When traveling in the Caribbean, your choices are as diverse as the islands. But you don’t need to fall for the cliché of pricey beach resorts or isolated boutique getaways costing hundreds of dollars a night.
You can enjoy the same beautiful beaches and lusciously warm blue waters as the big spenders, and you can do so on a budget without settling for overhyped all-inclusive mega-hotels with hundreds of tiny rooms and buffets piled high with fast-food fare. Cool, interesting and affordable accommodation can be found on islands scattered across these achingly alluring waters, and with smart planning in advance and keeping costs in mind while there, you can easily travel around the Caribbean on a budget.
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The Seasons Make A Huge Difference
The Caribbean is affected by seasonal changes perhaps more than any other destination in the world. Come November and December, the hurricanes retreat, and warm weather brings huge crowds. They stick around until at least spring break, when the rum bars and beach clubs get another boost. Bargain seekers might want to consider places like Aruba, where year-round deals are on offer and the climate is much milder. Or, months like June and July can be perfect, balancing balmy days with low rates.
Our Pick For A Budget Hotel In Aruba: Club Arias B& b
Located in a less touristy section of Arubas southwestern coast, Club Arias B& B boasts free breakfast, an on-site pool, and lush gardens. Though its situated a few blocks inland, the laid-back public beach at Santo Largo is a short walk away.
Most of Puerto Ricos stunning landscapes can be enjoyed for free, granted youre willing to stretch your legs a little. The islands southwestern tip is home to two its finest beaches: Playa Sucia and Playa Combate. The former is scenically encircled by craggy bluffs and maintains a more laid-back vibe due to its remoteness. Meanwhile, Playa Combate claims the title as the longest beach in Puerto Rico, with soft sand, shallow water, and beach bars drawing a younger crowd. Aside from the beach, Puerto Ricos largest swath of wilderness, El Yunque National Forest, permits free entry. There are hiking opportunities for all skill levels. At just 0.7 miles long, the Big Tree Trails paved surface is a relaxing walk that leads to the stunning Cascada La Mina waterfall. For more solitude, take the El Yunque Trail, which ascends 1,300 feet through the jungle to an observation deck. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding forest and sea.
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Grand Cayman The Cayman Islands
Explore Grand Cayman and youll have access not only to beautiful beaches and activities, but a large number of natural and historical attractions. Scuba diving offers views of large coral reefs and shipwrecks, including the USS Kittiwake, an artificial reef that you can explore inside. The Comfort Suites® Seven Mile Beach puts you right on the waterfront and only a short distance from the Cayman Turtle Farm.
Cheap Flight Search Engines
Two websites I love to use to find my flights are Skyscanner and kiwi.com. By using these two sites, youll be sure to save money as opposed to booking on expedia or other search engines.
Kiwi.com can piece together connection flights from different agencies and airlines whereas Skyscanner will find the most affordably priced tickets.
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Our Pick For A Budget Hotel In Martinique: Residence Oceane Hotel
Residence Oceane is a 25-room, off-the-beaten track, budget-oriented hotel built into a steep hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With no restaurant or bar on-site, the hotel caters mainly to families who prefer to stock their small refrigerators and cook simple meals at the kitchenettes on their outdoor terraces. While not located directly on the beach, guests can walk or drive to Anse LÉtang, a beach thats popular with surfers.
Often overlooked for neighboring Barbados, Grenada possesses a stunning coastline, natural beauty, and a charming capital that merit more attention. Winter temperatures typically hover around the 80s, and reliable sunshine is the norm. The islands most famous beach, Grand Anse, enjoys a sheltered position on Grenadas southwestern coastline. Grand Anses two miles of powdery golden sand are open to the public. For a more secluded environment, check out La Sagesse Beach, located in a sheltered cove on the southeastern shore. Technically an island, Hog Island can be reached by foot across the shallows of Woburn Bay or via chartered boat. The islands only establishment, Rogers Barefoot Beach Bar, is a no-frills rum bar serving up refreshing drinks and barbecue food on the weekends.
Our Pick For A Budget Hotel In Curacao: Scuba Lodge & Ocean Suites
Located in the artsy Pietermaai neighborhood, this hip, vibrant boutique hotel offers a laid-back island vibe and two small pools. As the name suggests, the Scuba Lodge is a dive-centric hotel, but it still offers plenty of value to non-divers with its friendly, welcoming charm, ocean views, and location close to town.
Dominica was hit hard by Hurricane Maria in 2017, with roughly 95 percent of buildings and many fruit trees receiving damage. Most of the islands attractions are its natural assets, which remain largely pristine beyond fallen trees across some of the mountain trails. The return of cruise ships in 2018 was another promising sign for recovery. That being said, the people of Dominica have work ahead to rebuild homes and communities. Tourism dollars can certainly contribute to these efforts, especially when shopping and dining at locally run establishments.
Reaching Dominica requires connecting in main Caribbean hubs like Barbados or San Juan, Puerto Rico. Prices from New York average around $800 round-trip, while traveling from Chicago costs around $1,000. To truly see the savings, youll need to visit Dominica for at least a week-long vacation.
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