Caribbean Vacation Tips

Originally named the West Indies by explorers seeking a sea route to India, the Caribbean is the region of tropical islands in the Caribbean Sea situated between North America and South America and east of Central America. Caribbean vacations are available at great prices at the moment so now is the time to investigate the best deals. Travelers Advantage(R) has issued nine Caribbean Vacation Tips to help travelers enjoy a low-cost island escape.

"Caribbean vacations are highly affordable right now with top flight resorts offering 4 days/3 nights stays for under $260," Travelers Advantage Vice President Julia Ryan said. "The key to success is to book now for the best deals on both accommodations and air travel.

Nine Caribbean Vacation Tips

Here are Travelers Advantage's nine tips for getting the most out of the great deals now available on Caribbean Vacations:

1. Book now if you want the best deal on accommodations and airfare. Airlines have reduced the number of planes in the air, so the best deals will go quickly. Also, if you are flexible with your travel dates be sure to ask for low season rates.

2. Pack your shorts, slacks, short sleeve and tee-shirts. Bring along a sweater or jacket for evenings, a swimsuit and an ample supply of sunscreen. Men should bring a suit jacket and tie if they plan to enjoy some of the finer restaurants and casinos. Along with sunscreen, be sure to bring along insect repellent, as well as a hat to protect your face from overexposure to that tropical sun.

3. Always ask before you photograph islanders who are wearing native garb. They may pose for a slight fee or their dress may be a religious expression and they may not want to be in any photos.

4. In some of the islands, people drive on the right side of the road, while in others they drive on the left. Be careful as both a pedestrian and driver.

5. If you take a taxi, remember to agree upon a fare before you start your trip; Caribbean taxis don't have meters. Also, make sure that the taxi makes return trips to get you back to your hotel and confirm the hours the taxi operates. If the hour is late and the location is out of the way, a little pre-planning will prevent getting stranded. On some islands you can hire a driver who will heed your schedule.

6. Many islands are becoming ecologically focused. Respect residents' homes, and don't leave trash on beaches and try not to waste precious resources. Helping islanders keep their homes beautiful will benefit future generations.

7. Respect the locals. Smile, thank them and be kind. They, in turn, will be motivated to assist tourists more readily - it's not always about money!

8. The U.S. dollar is welcome almost everywhere; however, do your homework and know the exchange rates so you know what you're spending.

9. Most islands have an internal language that usually is a blend of several different languages, or Patois. Patois can be hard to understand, but the locals delight in educating travelers!

Pirates of the Caribbean

Antigua

What's New in Grenada in 2003

New marina, hotel and apartments in St Lucia's Marigot Bay

Tobago

Three New Caribbean Routes from US Airways

Sandals Regency St. Lucia Golf Resort & Spa at La Toc Receives Five Star Diamond Award

St. Croix Island Adventure Package Just $599