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A lush tropical region with a rhythmic heartbeat and easy-going charm, there’s nowhere on the planet quite like the Caribbean. As well as having some of the most breathtaking tropical landscapes in the world, it has a contagious energy that lives on in its visitors long after they leave. From the lingering scent of rum in air to the pleasant sound of drumming in the distance, the Caribbean offers a slice of paradise.
9-11 hours
Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) is 9 miles west of Havana in Cuba; Cancún International Airport (CUN) is 14 miles southwest of Cancún in Mexico; Punta Cana International airport (PUN) is 21 miles east of the country.
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With its miles of white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, there are very few places in the world that are better for soaking up the rays than in the Caribbean. Cuba’s idyllic beaches stretch out as far as the eye can see. Varadero is one of the most popular places for a holiday to Cuba, where you’ll experience soft golden sands between your toes and a peacefulness from its swaying palm trees. St Lucia’s lively Reduit beach is popular with holidaymakers looking for a little atmosphere while they sunbathe.
Get a real taste of the Dominican Republic with a visit to the famous Brugal Rum Factory, where you’ll learn more about the rum-making process before sampling some for yourself. If that doesn’t whet your appetite, a Cuban espresso may do the trick. Take a shot before heading to Holguín City which plays host to some of Cuba’s most fascinating galleries, museums and monuments. For a more relaxed approach to sightseeing, Mexico’s mysterious Chichen Itza Pyramid (one of the New 7 Wonders of the World), offers a cultural experience that you'll treasure for a lifetime.
No trip to the Caribbean is complete without exploring its thriving music scene. The local bars in Havana offer plenty of opportunity to perfect your salsa dancing, while the local nightclubs in Jamaica’s Montego Bay resort are well known for keeping holidaymakers on their feet all night. If you plan to travel in March, head to Cancun where you’ll be just in time to experience over four million spring breakers descend upon the capital's most extravagant night clubs. Be prepared for impressive flying acrobats and suspended stages.
Honeymooners: Discover the Caribbean’s crystal clear waters and secluded coves on a romantic boat ride.
Party people: Whether you’re dancing merengue in the Dominican Republic or to the sounds of salsa in Cuba, don’t leave without trying a local dance yourself.
Underwater adventurers: Explore the Caribbean’s magnificent coral reefs and underwater treasures in a glass-bottom boat or on a snorkelling trip.
Language: The languages spoken in the Caribbean are English and Spanish
Currency: The currencies used in the Caribbean are the Dollar ($) and Peso (₱)
Local time: The Caribbean is 4–6 hours behind GMT/UK time.
Fly to: Hewanorra International Airport or George F.L. Charles Airport.
Flight time from UK: The flight time to the Caribbean varies from 8–11 hours.
Tourist Information: Further Caribbean tourist information can be found at www.caribbeantravel.com
Visa & Health: Before you travel, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cuba for recommendations and advice on visas and health for your holiday to Cuba. Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/dominican-republic for your holiday to the Dominican Republic. Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico for your holiday to Mexico.
Temperature: Average temperatures range from late 20s (°C) to early 30s (°C).
Best time to visit: Spring for slightly cooler temperatures.
The Caribbean enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. There are two seasons: rainy (May- October) and dry (November-April). The best time to go is between February and March, after the humidity levels are at their highest and before the start of the rainy season.
By Taxi: The best way to get around Cuba is in its state-run taxis. A short trip will only cost a few dollars. A fun alternative are the state-run cocotaxis, which are three-seater scooters.
By Bus: Local buses are the most comfortable and cost-effective way to get around Mexico and the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic’s local hop-on buses are smaller in size and don’t include toilet facilities, but make more stops along the route.
By Metro: The Santo Domingo metro is a fast way to reach up to nine cities in the Dominican Republic.
Santo Domingo Carnival: The end of February marks the biggest event on the Dominican Republic calendar: The Santo Domingo Carnival. If you’re lucky enough to be there, expect dancing, fabulous floats and enough delicious street food to send your taste buds into a wild frenzy.
Celebration of Classic Cars: Motor enthusiasts won't want to miss Cuba’s annual Classic Car Celebration in March. This week-long festival celebrates the country’s fleet of vintage cars with a series of lectures, workshops and parades throughout Havana.
Cancun Jazz Festival: Head down to Mexico’s legendary Parque de las Palapas at the end of May to witness the Cancun Jazz Festival in full swing. This event attracts some of the best jazz musicians from around the world so plan your trip early to avoid disappointment.
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