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Island Hopping: The Caribbean

The water is a color you thought only existed in your imagination. The sand, white or shell pink, is so clean it squeaks beneath your bare feet as you walk the length of the beach. The sun warms you to the bone as you lay beside each other sipping a wondrous concoction of rum, juice and spices you'll never be able to replicate. This is a honeymoon in the Caribbean islands, and it will change you forever.

The Caribbean: an over 750,000 square mile turquoise sea in the eastern part of the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida, north of Venezuela. Hundreds of islands and small atolls rise from the clear waters, creating the ideal destination for a newlywed couple to experience a perfectly relaxing honeymoon. The planning is over, the music of celebration has died away; now the time is yours to enjoy together, just the two of you, in paradise.

Due to their position along trade routes, their occupation by numerous larger nations, and their subsequent role as tourist destinations, the islands have unique, multicultural populations, blending cultures in a way seen nowhere else on earth. African, Spanish, U.S., British, Danish, French and Dutch influences in various combinations are evident throughout the islands, giving each island a unique feel, and a new culture all its own. There is a lifetime's worth of vacation options in these beautiful and diverse islands. You can choose an all-inclusive honeymoon or book a hotel room and plan your own activities.

Detailing all of the islands in this tropical paradise has filled books. Here we have focused on a few diverse places, to give you a taste of what you might expect. All-inclusive packages are available to each of these destinations. Other vacation options such as a stay at a romantic inn or villa are also available throughout the islands.

The U.S. Virgin Islands

These islands could be an excellent honeymoon destination for those who are new to overseas travel. The three islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John are U.S. protectorates. The currency is the U.S. Dollar and English is spoken widely so traveling is made just a little easier. The islands, like most of the Caribbean, have a diverse culture along with spectacular beaches.

  • St. Thomas. Charlotte Amalie is the capital and a popular destination for cruises due to its deep and safe harbor. Pastel houses dot the hills around the capital, making every vista seem like a perfect post card picture. Although beautiful white beaches abound on St. Thomas, it also holds a rich history of Danish colonization.
  • Neighboring St. Croix (pronounced Saint Croy) is famous for its diving, some of the finest in the world, and its miles of pristine beaches. Also a former part of the Danish West Indies, St. Croix's architecture recalls its diverse past.
  • St. John is the smallest of the three islands, only 28 square miles. For those who love hiking, this island could be your ideal destination. Two thirds of St. John is a U.S. national park, combining mountain trails with a perfect seashore.

Aruba

Very close to Northernmost Venezuela, Aruba is a geographically unique and beautiful island. From crashing waves and rugged north shore, to its central rocky desert dotted with cactus and its calm white beaches to the south, this formerly Dutch colony is a glorious place. Barely 70 square miles, this tiny paradise is renowned for its hospitality and sheer beauty, not to mention diving, sailing and every beach activity imaginable.

The Bahamas

Made up of over 700 islands and more than 2000 atolls, the Bahamas archipelago covers over 100,000 square miles. For decades, honeymooning couples have chosen the Bahamas not only for their physical beauty, but also for their proximity to the mainland United States. Just a short flight from Florida to Nassau or Freeport opens the gates to a honeymoon with every amenity imaginable. The powder-white sands and impossibly blue water of the Bahamas will be in your mind's eye forever.

Jamaica

Who thinks about the Caribbean without conjuring images of the hospitable Jamaican people, reggae music and pristine tropical beaches? Long a popular honeymoon destination, Jamaica is one of the most gorgeous and culturally diverse islands in the region. The islands combine the physical beauty of waterfalls, rainforests, rivers and beaches, with shopping, art and food of your dreams. Stay at an all-inclusive resort, or plan the trip of your choice.

St. Lucia (pronounced Saint Loosha)

The tropical beauty of this lush paradise will take your breath away. St. Lucia is known for its rainforests and beautiful waterfalls, not to mention the ubiquitous white beaches and turquoise sea. The island's 100-year-old marketplace is a must-see during any visit. With world-class all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels, St. Lucia is an ideal honeymoon destination. If you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, this island could be one of your top choices.

Antigua

Trade winds once brought explorers, traders and pirates to this perfect tropical island with its deep, safe harbor. Now sailboats race across its waters. These winds have always kept the island's humidity low and temperature pleasant, making it a wonderful place for a relaxing tropical honeymoon. Once again we mention the spectacular beaches, the coral reefs ideal for diving and the warm sun... all common denominators of the Caribbean. Nearby Barbuda is home to a bird sanctuary known throughout the region.

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