Barbados

Is perhaps the busiest of the Caribbean islands. The Atlantis submarine to get a close look at a sunken wreck and the shoals of tropical fish. Catamaran cruises and barbecues are also an attraction. Bridgetown the capital offers duty free shopping and you can visit Independence Square and cross the bridge with views of the marina to see Nelson’s bronze statue that pre dates Nelson’s Column. This 24/7 island caters for all tastes and all ages. Find out how useful pineapple is.

Jamaica

Is the third largest island in the Caribbean and “home” of James Bond. Secure resort hotels with long beaches and acres of landscaped gardens with swimming pools and bars. Kingston the capital offers historical landmarks of Devon House, Fort Charles and Port Royal. Go to the Blue Mountains and Newcastle for scenic views that are unforgettable. Venture onto the Rio Grande on a bamboo raft or swim in the famous Blue Lagoon. Enjoy cascading waterfalls, crystal springs, caves and castles. There are sunset cruises that can include Discovery Bay, Nelson’s first landfall in 1494. Jamaica known as the “Land of wood and water” became an independent state in 1962.

Saint Lucia

A tropical lush island recognised by the twin coastal peaks of the Pitons that shield the rain forests that are home to wild orchids, giant ferns and birds of paradise. Originally the main export was sugar cane, but this has now changed to bananas and tourism. The people exude warmth and charm in an island that is dotted with aged fortresses, small villages, and open air markets. This is indeed an artist’s perfect perspective. The Atlantic Ocean kisses its eastern shore, whilst the beaches of the west coast owe their beauty to the calm Caribbean Sea.

Cancun and the Riviera Maya

is a truly international holiday destination on the Yucatan peninsula in the state of Quintana in south eastern Mexico. Facing the Caribbean there are over 90 hotels, five large shopping centres, restaurants and an array of aquatic activity centres.. This is a marvellous family destination where you can swim with dolphins, spend time on the miles of pristine white beaches and view the marine life through a glass bottomed boat. Hotels are large with landscaped gardens, swimming pools, bars and are air conditioned. You can take a tour to the mangroves, visit Isla Mujeres, relax in a disco bar or take a romantic cruise on the lagoon.

Antigua and Barbuda

is surrounded with an almost unbroken wall of coral reef that in the past provided a protection for those that knew the approaches. The capital is St John and the small island of Barbuda is a coral reef. Within the coral lagoons the sea is teaming with tropical marine life for exploration by scuba diving and snorkelling. There are bird sanctuaries and a history of British governance dating back to Nelsons time. The island is 14 miles long and 11 miles wide and is the perfect place to lose oneself for a holiday of warm sea breezes and white sandy beaches.

Trinidad and Tobago

Two islands linked with one government and close enough to spend time in either place. Here there is adventure in the forest on the trail of hidden waterfalls, exotic birdlife, deep caves and turtle watching on the fine sandy beaches. Visit at carnival time for the steel bands and costumed dancing. Game fishing is an angler's dream searching for tarpon, tuna, and shark. Port of Spain is the capital and the hub of activity with regular ferry crossing to Tobago.