Some embrace the colder weather, but plenty are eager to escape it. So with this in mind, why not consider a getaway to the Caribbean to wrap up 2022?
Treat yourself to sea, sun and restoration- you deserve it!
The impact of the pandemic was felt across the islands, especially since many of them rely on tourism. Whether you envision pure luxury or a more casual experience, you’ll be received with open arms and friendly smiles.
Here are five islands to consider for the festive period.
Jamaica
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The largest, English-speaking island in the Caribbean has had international reach for years.
There are the luxury villas and famous resorts like Tryall and Half Moon. If you’re the sexually adventurous type, check out Hedonism.
Jamaica is also very budget-friendly, if you know where to look.
Traveler’s Beach Resort on Seven Mile Beach in Negril is warm, friendly, and reasonably priced.
For excursions, YS Falls and Dunn’s River Falls are waiting to receive you.
The Luminous Lagoon features electric blue and green waters which literally glow. It markets itself as “Jamaica’s only night-time attraction.” Be sure to bring a good camera.
And who doesn’t remember the most iconic exchange in Cool Runnings?
“Sanka? Yuh dead?”
“Ya’ mon!”
Turks and Caicos
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Turks and Caicos attracts A-list celebrities and the well-to- do, with its luxurious, private villas and the legendary Grace Bay Beach. The sand there feels like sugar.
Some popular villas include Vision Beach, Amazing Grace and Coral Pavilion, which are perched on the beach. Too big? Check out the adorable Beach Cake villa, with Balinese decor. It’s perfect for two couples, a small family or a few friends.
For some culture, check out the Maskanoo Parade on December 26, with roots in African tradition. If you’ve done Junkanoo in the Bahamas or any carnival-style event, you can expect more of the same here.
Barbados
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Take your pick from private villas, condos, and 5-star resorts. Barbados has them all.
Bajan Heights, Seaduced (yes, that’s the spelling) and Sugar Cane Ridge are part of Royal Westmoreland, an estate for golf-lovers.
For Bajans, food is a major part of the Christmas celebrations.
According to the Barbados.org site, “three must- have dishes on any Christmas table are: great cake, jug jug and baked ham.”
Bridgetown, the capital, is draped in bright lights and there are Christmas trees on display.
Barbados, once called “Little England,” has been in the news quite a bit as of late. It became a republic in 2021 and elected its first president, Sandra Mason.
Recently, the Bajan government announced plans to make a British politician pay reparations due to his family’s ties to slavery.
St. Lucia
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St. Lucia’s tagline is “Let Her Inspire You,” and there’s plenty to be inspired by no matter when you visit.
There’s the world-famous Pitons, which you can climb. The zip-lining opportunities. The sulfur springs, also known as “the world’s only drive-in volcano.” And don’t forget the Gros Islet street party every Friday night.
According to Belle Carib, “the Christmas season is a period which most St. Lucians look forward to, particularly because around this time, the food and drink are in great abundance, rich and soul-satisfying. Sorrel juice is a staple at Christmas time, and its sudden appearance is an indication of the festivities ahead.”
The Bahamas
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The Junkanoo festival is returning. And if past years are anything to go by, it’s going to be a vibe!
We did a feature on this festival earlier. Check it out here.
Head to Grand Bahama Island for the Port Lucaya Marketplace.
According to The Culture Trip, “the 40 shops and boutiques in the marketplace sell a variety of items and often have Christmas sales and specials throughout the month of December. On Christmas Eve, the marketplace is especially crowded with locals and tourists bustling for the best deals.”
