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The Crane Beach is located along the south east coast of Barbados steps away from the Crane Hotel. It was named “one of the Ten Best Beaches in the world” by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. It is situated between protective rock outcroppings, making it a very secluded spot. The moderate waves make it excellent for body surfing and boogey boarding. It is everything a Caribbean beach should be, but with bigger waves and a stronger breeze.

One of the best beaches in Martinique, Les Salines features miles of white sand and softly swaying palm trees. There are no shower or bath facilities available at Les Salines. However, there is plenty of space to set up and enjoy a long, relaxing day by the water with terrific panoramic scenery. Weekdays are the least busy times while on weekends the beach tends to fill up fast with families and can become quite crowded, especially in the afternoons.

Grenada is home to dozens of stunning beaches and the serene Grand Anse is one of the best. Known for its serene and calm conditions, Grand Anse is two miles of white sand, on the western side of the island, sheltered from high waves, strong currents and winds. The beach is one of the most famous Grenadian landmarks and is overlooked by some of the island’s best hotels and grand houses.

Rated as one of the “Best Bahamas Beaches” by the likes of Fodors, Frommers and The Travel Channel, Harbour Island Bahamas is famous for its three and a half miles of picture perfect pink sand beaches. Warm clear ocean waters provide excellent diving, fishing and boating while outlying reefs provide safe swimming and snorkeling.

One of the Caribbean’s most famous beaches, The Baths are situated at the southern tip of Virgin Gorda, the third largest island of the British Virgin Islands. Huge granite boulders lie in piles on the beach, forming spectacular tunnels and grottoes that are open to the sea and flood at high tide. The sandy beaches are lined with tropical palms, adding to the dramatic effect.

Englishman’s Bay is a secluded beach on the leeward coast of [cl ranking=2]Tobago[/cl]. Although the bay does not draw the large numbers of beach-goers that Tobago’s western beaches do, it is considered as one of the island’s most beautiful. The beach itself is a classic crescent shape, capped by two heavily forested headlands. The sand starts immediately after the forest ends and is of a shallow to medium gradient and somewhat coarse grain. The waters are calm year-round and boast magnificent snorkeling and swimming.

The Sea Breeze Beach Hotel is centrally located on Maxwell Coast Road in Christ Church. It is secluded from the hustle of the tourist town, but close enough for a nice walk through the shops. The food and drinks at the 2 restaurants and beach bar are included in the price. Also included are all of the water sports that are offered along the beach. There is windsurfing, kayaking and dingy sailing with scuba diving, golf, deep sea fishing and other sports all within a 15 minute drive.

The Mango Bay Resort is an all-inclusive getaway located on the infamous western shoreline of Barbados. Well-appointed suites include posh amenities and a fully furnished, private balcony to enjoy. Guest can take pleasure in buffet or a la carte cuisine at the indoor and open-air restaurant on the property to satiate their appetite before heading down to the beach for complimentary activities. Guest can also relax by the pool, visit the salon, or take a trip to the fitness center.

One of the best all-inclusive resorts in Barbados, Waves is an adults-only retreat with spacious accommodations that provides a relaxing vacation true to Barbadian style. Overlooking the serene Prospect Bay, guests at the Waves Beach Resort can unwind ocean side, poolside, or indulge their senses at the exclusive onsite spa. Three magnificent dining establishments and two lively bars promise to satiate all appetites and thirsts. Guests enjoy endless non-motorized sports equipment, while hosts of more intensive excursions are just minutes away.

The Island Inn Hotel is situated steps away from the beach at the beautiful Carlisle Bay facing the tranquil Caribbean Sea less than a mile from the center of Bridgetown. This fully renovated hotel was originally constructed in 1804 as a Rum Storage facility for the British Regiment, and now offers 24 charming guestrooms nestled in peaceful gardens of palm trees and tropical flowers.

The Mango Bay Resort is an all-inclusive getaway located on the infamous western shoreline of Barbados. Well-appointed suites include posh amenities and a fully furnished, private balcony to enjoy. Guest can take pleasure in buffet or a la carte cuisine at the indoor and open-air restaurant on the property to satiate their appetite before heading down to the beach for complimentary activities. Guest can also relax by the pool, visit the salon, or take a trip to the fitness center.

The Sea Breeze Beach Hotel is centrally located on Maxwell Coast Road in Christ Church. It is secluded from the hustle of the tourist town, but close enough for a nice walk through the shops. The food and drinks at the 2 restaurants and beach bar are included in the price. Also included are all of the water sports that are offered along the beach. There is windsurfing, kayaking and dingy sailing with scuba diving, golf, deep sea fishing and other sports all within a 15 minute drive.

Surrounded tropical gardens and a long stretch of white sandy beach, the Fairmont Royal Pavilion is located on the beautiful Platinum Coast of Barbados. Each of the finely appointed guestrooms at the all-inclusive resort feature traditional Caribbean decor, large oceanfront balconies with stunning views, flat-screen televisions and Internet access. Guests are welcome to enjoy the private beach, pool, a host of water sports, shuttle service between the hotel and the Royal Westmoreland Golf Club, babysitting and spa services.

Whether your notion of a premier all inclusive resort calls for cocktails by the pool, exotic salon services, elegant all-suite quarters or exceptional access to a number of Barbados tourist attractions, Turtle Beach Resort delivers. Discover three mouthwatering restaurants and several hip lounges to choose from right on the beachfront, or pick from several others a short stroll away at the resort’s sister properties. The white sand beach is steps from the suites, where numerous invigorating water activities are available.

Located on the west coast of Barbados , the Crystal Cove in Saint James offers beautiful ocean vistas, access to white sandy beaches and intimate tropical hillsides overlooking the town. Each of the 88 comfortable and modern guestrooms at the Crystal Cove are air conditioned and feature patios or balconies, plus satellite televisions. There are three restaurants, a bar, a special kids club, three lagoon-style swimming pools and several water sport options.

With just over 100 newly renovated guest rooms, the Tamarind Cove Hotel in Saint James is large enough for groups or families, but it still provides the intimate feel of a romantic couples resort. Three relaxing pools, access to an exquisite spa, and a vast array of complimentary motorized water sports are only a few of the amenities to enjoy onsite.

This family oriented Barbados all inclusive resort rests along the shores of the island’s most impressive beachfront along Prospect Bay. The Escape is a quaint property that delivers personalized service along with a nice assortment of dining, nightlife, and activities for everyone in the family. Colorful rooms provide a cheery and tropical oasis where you can rest between excursions both on and off the property. Children can enjoy the supervised Kids Club entertainments, while the adults hit the casino, take in the sights in Christ Church, or indulge in exceptional golfing and water excursions nearby.

Fronting the azure Caribbean Sea, this exclusive adults only property provides an ideal respite for romantic adventurers. Choose from seven categories of spacious rooms outfitted with fine appointments and commanding ocean and garden views. Partake in gourmet meals and flowing premium libations among live nightly entertainment within several onsite restaurants and lively bars. Pamper yourself at the full service spa, enjoy poolside waiter service, or play a few rounds on the tennis courts. Guests enjoy complimentary use of non-motorized water sporting gear along the property’s private beach, where an intricate coral reef beckons for exploration.

The convenience and affordability that accompanies a luxurious stay amid these top Barbados all-inclusive resorts allows guest to leave their concerns and cash behind. The unmatched beauty of the Caribbean’s easternmost tropical island can be enjoyed without the need to break out the wallet for every exhilarating activity, refreshing cocktail or delectable dish. Beyond comfortable rooms just steps from pristine beaches, these exceptional all-inclusive resorts in Barbados offer an array of appealing activities and amenities that will ensure a memorable vacation experience.

Standing tall in the bustling city centre, the Georgian House is a slice of 18th century Edinburgh. Built in 1796, the Georgian House is a fine example of the fashionable buildings that made up Edinburgh’s New Town. The New Town was built to provide wealthier residents of the city with more comfortable living conditions than the Old Town could offer. The House has been decorated impeccably with period pieces to provide a glimpse into the life of its elite Edinburgh residents. On show are pieces of fine art, stunning silverware, and gorgeous furniture. Explore on your own or as part of a special costumed tour, where guides enact a typical day in the life of a noble family.

Guarding the entrance to Havana Bay, Morro Castle was built in 1589. Over the course of its history, the Spanish, British and Cubans have all used it to protect and control Havana. With its dry moat, canons and well-preserved walls, it is an interesting place to wander around. In the barracks, you can see how the soldiers would have lived. From its ramparts, there are beautiful views out over the sea and Havana itself. Morro Castle is a popular tourist attraction in Havana with a wealth of history to explore.

With over 800,000 graves, the cemetery – named after Christopher Columbus – is fascinating to wander around. The elaborate tombs are beautifully sculpted and are artworks in themselves. Crafted out of dazzlingly white stone, there are around 500 major mausoleums. Various parts of the cemetery are dedicated to poets and artists, while others feature politicians, baseball players, and musicians. One of the most important cemeteries in Latin America due to the architecture on display and the renowned people buried here, such as Beatriz Allende and Alejo Carpentier, Cementario de Cristobal Colon is much more than just a cemetery.

With a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Havana, the historic Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana (to give the fort its full title) is one of the best spots to head to if you’re after a glorious sunset. Completed in 1774, the fort complex is huge. The fortifications were once used to house Fidel and Raul Castro, who were imprisoned here, and Che Guevara later used it as his headquarters. While watching the sun go down over the sea, don’t be alarmed if you hear the canons go off; they are fired every day at 9 PM to bring a close to another fantastic day in Havana.

When gazing upon El Capitolio for the first time, you may have the sneaking suspicion that you’ve seen it before – you would be correct, as it is modeled on the famous US Capitol Building. Hilariously, the Cubans made it just a little bit bigger than the one in the United States, just to show off what the Cuban Revolution was capable of. While it was once the seat of government, it now hosts the Cuban Academy of Sciences. One of the most recognizable and famous landmarks in the city, you’ll certainly pass by El Capitolio at some point when visiting Havana.

Surrounded by gray, government buildings from the 1950s, this huge square was conceived by the French Urbanist Jean Claude Frostier and built on the Loma de los Catalanes hill during the Batista era. It has been the venue of many of the principal celebrations and events related to the Cuban Revolution. It was here that Fidel Castro – il Comandante – held so many of his political rallies, bringing the revolution to the people. The name ‘Plaza De La Revolucion’ is therefore very fitting. It would be hard not to notice the giant Fidel Castro memorial that is emblazoned on the side of one building or the equally large one of Camilo Cienfuegos. To the north is the gigantic Jose Marti monument, which predates the revolution.

Located in a beautiful building that was once the Presidential Palace, the Museo de la Revolucion will teach you all there is to know about the Cuban Revolution that has so shaped the island’s history. Taking you through the build-up to the revolution and its aftermath, it is a fascinating museum to wander around, although English explanations are sadly lacking. The elegant palatial rooms house memorabilia from the revolution, such as Che Guevara’s gun and cap. Outside is the Granma yacht, which brought the revolutionaries from Mexico to Cuba.

Located just under 20 kilometers from Old Havana, Playas del Este is a great spot if you want to get out of the city and lounge on the beach in the sun. It is a popular spot with local Cubans. While the beaches themselves are lovely, there is a slightly decaying air about Playas del Este and the Soviet-esque hotels found here. An authentic place with no airs and graces, Playas del Este is where you head to in Havana if you want to go to the beach.

Renowned around the world for its rum, the Museo del Ron located in the Havana Club will teach you how it is distilled – you’ll even get to do some taste testing. The aging cellars of the colonial townhouse are beautiful. Your guide will show you how sugar cane turns into the potent drink that is so beloved by many. With exhibitions on the history of rum in Cuba, the museum is interesting to visit even if you’re not a rum aficionado.

Punta Cana is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Dominican Republic. It stands apart from other beach resorts in the country, however, because it has beaches that face both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Punta Cana has 100 km (60 miles) of coastline with mainly shallow waters, but the beaches can be windy sometimes. Punta Cana is a party town where you can swim with dolphins or sharks, race a speed boat, or go deep sea fishing, catamaran sailing, whale watching or zip lining. Plan to be very busy during your visit.

In 1938, long before the Dominican Republic became a top tourist destination, its president offered safe haven to 100,000 Jewish refugees. About 800 settled in Sosua and were given land where they started a dairy and cheese factory. You can eat products from Productos Sosua today. Sosua is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts who like the calm waters, reef structures and the many varieties of fish they’ll see. Sosua is a place where nature is still making beaches, some naturally and others by storms. By day, Sosua is a typical beach resort; by night, it’s a haven for party animals.

In a country that is known for its beach destinations, the resort town of Bayahibe is no exception. The former fishing village is now one of the top places to visit in the Dominican Republic. Bayahibe Beach is located less than a mile from town, but you’re more likely to visit here to catch a boat to Saona and its fabulous beaches located within a national park. Bayahibe also is the best scuba diving locations in the country, with more than 20 dive sites. Don’t scuba dive? How about stand-up paddle boarding or snorkeling?

Samana, capital of the province with the same name, is a pretty, historic town located on northern Samana Bay. Its main claim to fame is that it’s the last stop Christopher Columbus made the New World in 1493 before heading back to Spain. In more modern times, it’s a great place to go whale-watching, since thousands of humpback whales head to the bay to give birth between January and March. During these months, Samana is the tourism capital of the Dominican Republic. It may interest baseball fans to know that several notable pitchers, including Wily Peralta, grew up here.

If you’re into adventure sports, Cabarete is a good place to indulge yourself. Founded in 1835 by former slave owner, this once quiet fishing village is now a kite-surfer’s dream, hosting many international competitions. It’s one of the most popular surfing spots in the Caribbean. Cabarete has a good infrastructure for tourism, with top hotels and eateries, all of which are easy to find, since the village has only one main street. Cabarete has pretty beaches, but if you get tired of them you can explore nearby caves or go kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving.

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and its largest city – indeed, it has the largest metropolitan area in the Caribbean. Founded in 1496 on the Ozama River, it is the oldest European settlement in the Americas. It also holds a number of other New World firsts: capital of the Spanish empire, castle (Alcazar de Colon), monastery, cathedral (Cathedral Santa Maria la Menor) and university. The best place to take in this rich history is, of course, the historic district where you’ll find majestic buildings reflecting Middle Ages architecture. You can also see the Fortaleza Ozama, the oldest fortress in the Americas.

El Limon waterfall definitely doesn’t live up to its name, The Lemon. Instead, El Limon is a spectacular waterfall that drops 50 meters (170 fee)t near the Atlantic Coast side of the Dominican Republic. Getting there can be a sweaty and wet ordeal since you’ll cross several rivers on horseback (the main way to get there), but once there, you can cool off in the spectacular swimming hole at the bottom of the falls. You may need the dip even more if you’ve opted to walk the 40-minute trail over sometimes steep terrain.

You may be walking on history as you beach comb on Playa Rincon: It’s one of two places in the Dominican Republic rumored to be THE spot where Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus first touched land in 1492. But even if it’s not, you’ll enjoy strolling on the soft sandy beach, which, at nearly two miles long means there’s room for everyone, though you may have to share the beach with stuff the ocean washed in. Still, Playa Rincon is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. You can get there via a 20-minute boat ride from Las Galeras.

Because of its tropical climate, Jarabacoa is frequently called “the city of everlasting spring.” The area is known for its mountains and scenic beauty, including the Jimenoa and Baiguate waterfalls, and the Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve. If you’re an adventuresome visitor, you might try crossing the Jimenoa River on a wood and rope footbridge. More timid travelers may opt for a round of golf on a nine-hole course or a visit to the Cistercian monastery of Santa Maria del Evangelio. Come February, Jarabacoa hosts one of the most famous Carnivals in the country.

Las Terrenas, on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, was once a small fishing village. But that all changed in 1946 when the country’s president ordered rural residents from Santo Domingo to settle here as farmers and fishermen. Today, Las Terrenas is a growing tourist destination known for its pretty landscapes, white sand beaches and clear ocean water. It’s popular with foreigners and Santo Dominicans since it’s only a two-hour drive from the capital. Top beaches include Playas el Portillo and Las Ballenas. Las Terrenas also is a good place to go dolphin and whale watching.

If you’re in the mood for a Caribbean holiday, the Dominican Republic is the place to go. It shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti in the Greater Antilles. The island is where Christopher Columbus made his first stop in the New World in 1492 and which later became the first capital of the Spanish empire in the Americas. You’ll find plenty of evidence of the country’s Spanish heritage. Today, however, people visit the Dominican Republic for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters and water sports activities. Off-shore activities include deep sea fishing and whale watching. There’s really not any good reason for you to stay home after you’ve seen these best places to visit in the Dominican Republic.

Last, but certainly not least, is the city of Havana. As the capital of Cuba and the major transport hub, virtually all visitors will spend at least some time exploring Havana. This sophisticated, retro and cosmopolitan city is known for its spectacular nightlife, but days offer just as much excitement. Start in La Habana Vieja, or the Old Town, where crumbling colonial buildings and vibrant mid-century structures stand side by side. Don’t leave Havana without watching cigars being rolled by hand in a small factory, or tasting some local rum fresh from the distillery. Mingle with the locals along Malecón, the seawall right along the coast that offers sea views and plenty of fun.

For those with a love of history or architecture, Trinidad is a great place to visit in Cuba. The heart of Trinidad is Plaza Mayor, the main square surrounded by neo-Baroque buildings. Next door to the plaza is a colonial convent that now houses the Museum of the War Against the Bandits, or the Lucha Contra Bandidos. After exploring the museum, walk uphill away from the Plaza Mayor to shop for handicraft souvenirs. Popular items for sale include hand-sewn tablecloths and napkin linens. Another of the breathtaking structures in Trinidad is the Palacio Brunet Mansion, which now serves as the Museo Romantico. Visit to admire a fantastic collection of 19th century artworks and antiques.

While Cuba has several national parks, none is so beautiful and accessible as the one located in the Viñales Valley. Viñales is known as a stunning destination, and history tells that it was Castro’s favorite place on the island. The valley is surrounded by mountains, tobacco still grows to manufacture iconic Cuban cigars and countless caves add an extra ounce of adventure for the intrepid traveler. One of the most popular caves is the Cuevas del Indio, or Indian Caves, where you can actually take a boat ride completely within the cavern system itself.

Just a short drive from Havana is Varadero, a popular beach resort town found on Hicacos Peninsula. Many miles of coastline let you enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the white sandy beaches and blue warm waters really are stunning to behold. While the gorgeous beach is the reason why Varadero is among the best places to visit in Cuba, there is plenty more to do. Parque Josone is a gorgeous park filled with botanical gardens, lakes, wildlife and bridges, not to mention music, vendors and even camel rides for kids. Also worth exploring are the Bellamar Caves, an extensive cavern system that been available to visitors for more than 150 years.

Located in eastern Cuba, Santiago de Cuba is a coastal city known for its colonial history. Santiago de Cuba was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish, and it is known as the Second City of Cuba. The heart of the city is the Parque Cespedes, a central plaza that is surrounded by a number of historical Spanish colonial structures. In more recent history, the plaza was where Fidel Castro famously declared the revolution a success in 1959. You can also explore the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, a 17th century fortress overlooking the bay.

Cienfuegos is a city in Cuba that is unlike others on the island. Since it was founded by the French, rather than the Spanish, it has a unique atmosphere. The city is known as La Perla del Sur, or the Pearl of the South. For those who appreciate mid-century modern architecture, the peninsula of Punta Gorda is a must see. There are still many 1950s homes, many of which have been carefully preserved. The center of Cienfuegos is Pueblo Nuevo, where you can explore the history museum, dine at an outdoor cafe or take a Spanish or French language lesson.

Cayo Largo del Sur, also known just as Cayo Largo, is a small island off the mainland of Cuba. If you are visiting Cuba in order to find gorgeous, uncrowded beaches, then it makes sense to visit the resort-like island of Cayo Largo. The largest and most popular beach on the island is Playa Sirena, the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. Common activities on Cayo Largo include swimming, snorkeling, surfing and kayaking. The Marina is a hub for the island, and it is also where you’ll find the fascinating sea turtle hatchery, which offers regular tours to visitors.

While Havana might be the modern capital of Cuba, it wasn’t always the center of Cuban politics. Baracoa is sometimes known as the First City, and it was the very first capital of the island. Baracoa was founded in the early 16th century by famed explorer Diego Velazquez, and it retains much of its colonial architecture. The Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion is just one example worth checking out. Baracoa is also a great base for visiting El Yunque, a mountain overlooking the city where visitors can hike and explore the green, lush rainforest environment just 30 minutes from the beach.

On the far western tip of Cuba is the small town of Maria la Gorda. While Maria la Gorda might not have a lot of infrastructure or big tourist attractions, it still gets plenty of visitors throughout the year. That’s because Maria la Gorda is one of the top diving destinations in the Caribbean. If you’re a scuba diver, then make your way to the area for guided trips out to sea. The underwater marine life is rich, and regular trips depart from the marina. Many visitors opt for an inclusive package that combines accommodation, dining and diving in one price. Snorkeling trips are also popular, though less common than diving excursions.

Just north of the mainland, and connected via bridges, is the archipelago called Jardines del Rey. Jardines del Rey, or Gardens of the King, is a chain of islands including Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Paredon Grande and Cayo Romano. The islands weren’t true tourist destinations until the 1990s, when the first hotel was built. Even today, many visitors come for the fact that the chain is still largely undeveloped. Playa Pilar on Cayo Coco is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches, and it is located just steps from a number of all-inclusive resorts.

The largest of the Caribbean islands is Cuba, located less than 160 km (100 miles) from the southernmost point of Florida in the US. Although still closed off to American tourists, Cuba is open to other world travelers eager to explore the rich culture and history of the island. Known for its legendary cigars, American vintage cars, stunning beaches, not to mention a few rum distilleries, Cuba clearly has a lot to offer visitors. When selecting the best places to visit in Cuba, be sure to embrace both the rural and the city experiences. The perfect trip to Cuba will include Havana, but it will also get off the beaten track and explore the incredible scenery and culture of the entire island.