Today’s post is written by my friend, and true exotic visitor, Mike Collins. You can read more about Mike below and his adventures sailing around the world for the last 30 years.
The days of exploring uncharted islands are long gone. Today calypso music and cruise ships are synonymous with Caribbean vacations. Finding a little out of the way piece of land rising up from the ocean floor is still possible without surrendering the explorer spirit. Small island destinations can offer a large experience for the traveler looking to escape the cookie cutter Caribbean.
Isla Mujeres-The Party
Isla Mujeres
Only 8 miles across the Bahia de Mujeres from Cancun, a 5 mile long ½ mile wide Caribbean island juts from the sea to provide visitors with a vacation experience that is the epitome of old world “island time” living. Isla Mujeres residents have earned their livings from the rich fishing waters for generations still vividly apparent as families gather together outside colorfully painted homes to mend nets. Hidalgo is the main road where nightlife is hopping with clubs and restaurants. Street performers gather to entertain visitors with fire jugglers to Mariachi bands. Getting to the island is simple by ferry. Take a taxi From the Cancun International Airport to Puerto Juárez where there are two express ferry services that will bring you to Isla Mujeres.
Plan your trip at Isla-Mujeres.net
La Désirade-The Solitude
La Desirade
In the archipelago of Guadalupe, La Désirade is largely uninhabited. Don’t let the fact that the island is a former leper colony dissuade you from visiting this seven mile long beautifully secluded island. Long walks on beaches, in sand as soft as baby powder, can provide the privacy and solitude couples require in feeling as if they are the only inhabitants in the world. If those looking for the Robinson Crusoe style getaway, La Désirade has secluded beachside bungalows .The crossing to Beauséjour, La Désirade takes 45 minutes from Saint Francois, Guadeloupe with two daily departures, one in the morning and one in mid-afternoon. There is one road that stretches from one end of the island to the other. Getting around by scooter is the best alternative.
Plan your trip at Go2Guadeloupe
Barbuda-The Adventure
There is no shortage of adventure on the Island of Barbuda. This tiny island, adjacent to Antigua, offers the diving enthusiasts hundreds of wrecks to explore along the coast.
Sailing the Caribbean Seas
Dive trips can be planned through George Burton’s Scuba (no website available but easy to find). Kayaks, sailboats, and snorkeling gear can be rented hourly or daily. Many of the locals rely on fishing for their livelihood. To experience a fishing trip local style, ask around for fisherman that will take passengers. Many locals will put together an impromptu fishing trip and direct you to a restaurant that will prepare your catch for dinner. Catching lobster by hand is popular for locals and visitors alike. Exploring the ancient drawings in caves on Barbuda is a favorite for visitors. Plan your trip at Barbudaful.net
Mike has spent the last 30 years sailing the world’s oceans in search of the perfect rum cocktail. He currently calls St Thomas USVI home where he lives with his wife Emily and daughter Hailey. Currently his time is spent writing, sailing and preparing for a 5 year expedition of the Caribbean. You can follow his adventures on his Exotic Visitors blog
Caribbean is a region of islands…Variety of islands are here…for kids, young and adults….nice posting…villas costa brava
What a beautiful island…………..