Caribbean Holidays

When To Go

Summer

While Summer is a very typical time to go to the Caribbean, it's also the typical hurricane season from around June until November. Tropical storms can happen outside of these months but are far less common. Like most tropical climates, during the rainy season, downpours of rain are generally short sharp bursts, but it's best to pack for a little bit of rain.

Winter

Winter is usually considered the high season with regular warm weather and a dry climate between December and April. It's the most popular time to travel here both for Brits swaping dark clouds for clear blue skies, but also for the Americans too. What that does mean is higher prices though so be prepared to pay a bit extra, especially in December, January and February.

Types Of Holiday In The Caribbean

There are lots of different types of holidays available in the Caribbean to suit all tastes, whether you're a bit of an adventurer, wanting to experience jerk chicken and reggae music, or simply want to spend some quality time with the family on the beach.

Cruise Holidays

With so many islands on offer, Caribbean cruises are the perfect way to discover several islands in one go so you get a taste for a few different ones, all without having to pack, unpack and change hotels each day. Most cruises around the Caribbean leave from Barbados or Florida (often Miami) with lots of different companies to choose from including Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Marella Cruises, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Lines and Virgin Voyages.

All Inclusive

If you simply want to fly and flop at your hotel, enjoying the pool and beach and not wandering too far from your hotel, all inclusive could be a good option, especially if you're on a strict budget. Along with all inclusive cruise options around the Caribbean, brands like Sandals and Beaches can both offer a premium all inclusive holiday experience.

Self Catering

There's nothing quite like staying in a private home or villa and getting out and experiencing the place. Going self catering to the Caribbean ensures that you're buying from local markets and supermarkets and trying out the local cuisine in little eateries and beachside bars. Wherever you choose for this, make sure you have suitable kitchen or cooking facilities.

Villas

Villas in the Caribbean can be small one bed places, or sprawling multi-bedroom homes with private pools. These can be great for a group of friends or a larger family who like plenty of space and privacy, with that homely feeling too.

For Couples

The islands are well known for being the home of weddings and honeymoons. Tropical paradise really doesn't get much more romantic which is why it's great for couples. Take a look at adults only resorts like the Sandals Grenada, Secrets Riviera Maya or the Hilton La Romana.

For Families

With an incredible friendly atmosphere, the Caribbean is really family friendly and what better way to let the kids have fun than to splash around by the pool or go snorkelling in tropical waters. If you want to make it the best kid friendly holiday, make sure to stay at the exciting Nickelodeon Hotel in Punta Cana for some real family fun.

Golf Holidays

If you're a golfer, you might not automatically think of the Caribbean as a golf destination, but there really are some impressive golf resorts here. What better way to unwind that with your favourite sport in the sunshine near tropical beaches.

Travelling To The Caribbean

There are multiple direct flights from the UK to the Caribbean, to islands including Bermuda, Jamaica and Barbados with three airlines, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and TUI. Some of the smaller islands are a little harder to reach so you may either need to change planes somewhere or stay overnight and pick up a commuter plane, especially if you're staying in a very out-of-the-way place.

Unless you have somewhere specific, lesser known accommodation like an Airbnb villa, booking a package can usually be the best option and will also mean you're financially protected by the ATOL scheme when you book through brands like loveholidays, Trailfinders or Expedia. When booking through BA Holidays, Virgin Holidays or TUI, you may find that your luggage, airport transfers and seat selection are automatically included.

Most companies will offer 7 nights, 10 nights and 2 week holidays but you can organise to stay longer or shorter on a more tailormade holiday. Cruises are usually around 7 nights, however, Royal Caribbean does have much shorter, 3 night options to the Bahamas to help you test the water and try a cruise if you've never been on one before.