The Caribbean, long referred to as the West Indies, includes more than 7,000 islands; of those, 13 are independent island countries and some are dependencies or overseas territories of other nations. In geographical terms the Caribbean area includes the Caribbean Sea and all of the islands located to the southeast of the Gulf of Mexico, east of Central America and Mexico, and to the north of South America. Some of its counted cay’s, islands, islets and inhabited reefs front the handful of countries that border the region.

As against popular believes, The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos are not considered a part of the Caribbean, however, them often united because of their cultural, geographical and political associations with the Greater Antilles and other Caribbean Islands.

Overall the Caribbean is a magical place of palm trees, white sand beaches, turquoise waters and sunshine, all blessed with a climate that consistently offers a much-needed break for those stuck in the cold weather doldrums of the north. The region enjoys year-round sunshine, divided into ‘dry’ and ‘wet’ seasons, with the last six months of the year being wetter than the first half.

If you haven’t been, you should, and I will give you 5 Top reasons why you need to make a getaway to the Caribbean. If you’ve been here more than once, you will and should  come again, as these islands, these beach-ringed, jungle-covered rocks are home to thousands of historical surprises and activities galore that keep you enthralled every time.

So come wiggle you toes in the sand, and eat and sleep under the stars in the Caribbean. You won’t be disappointed!! Whether you are interested in discovering the wonders under the sea, participating in one of the many cultural events, sampling the local food and drink, hiking the terrain, enjoying your wedding with family and friends or simply laying on a beach and partying at a resort, it’s all here in the Caribbean. There are so many reasons to visit the Caribbean . some are well known while other you have to figure out by yourself. So go ahead and make plans to join the Royal Caribbean cruise as we take you on a journey through the sights and sounds of the Caribbean.

1. World Famous Beaches:  Look no further as beaches don’t get batter that this. The crystal blue seas, the stretch of pale white sandy beaches that seem endless and the alluring winter sun that begs you to take out a hammock and surrender yourself  to nature at its best. The islands are blessed with some of the finest beaches on Earth. As a general rule, the flatter islands – such as Barbados, Anguilla, Grand Cayman and Antigua – have the sexiest stretches of sand. And if you are lucky  enough you may come across a few of your favorite celebrities lounging in the sun.

2. Active Adventures ( onboard and ashore ) Amazing, thrilling and exciting activities on board the Royal Caribbean ships that sail to the destinations the likes of Harmony of the Seas,  Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and many others . On board the ships are numerous  activities like flow rider simulator, rock climbing,  the amazing water slides, skating etc.  Lest I forget the color and culture of the Caribbean brought onboard, from the local cuisine,  legendary cocktails and rum to the live reggae bands and so much more. Our guests can disembark and wonder onto the glorious Island beaches to enjoy the historical culture and sights of the Caribbean  (Man’s imprint on the Caribbean is often as fascinating as nature’s. Many of the islands preserve fortified remnants from the era of European colonial squabbles. Port Royal in Jamaica plays up the pirate schtick, while the Brimstone Hill Fortress in St Kitts has wonderful views to go with the cannon and stone walls) or play volleyball.

The Zipline experience at Labadee , Haiti

The cannon and stone walls in St. Kitts

3. The Diving and Snorkeling : Clear waters , abundant shipwrecks and tropical coral reefs make many of the Caribbean islands diving hot spots . The  Bloody Bay Marine Park off Little Cayman is spectacular for the steep cliff walls, Saba Marine Park’s ultra-strict reserve regulations mean the coral and sealife are pristine, while the RMS Rhone in the British Virgin Islands is a spectacular wreck dive that’s suitable for beginners. For novelty value, however, you’ll struggle to beat diving to the underwater statue of Jacques Cousteau off Guadeloupe.

4.  Hospitality:Caribbean Island locals are famously hospitable. Indeed, smiling service is as much a Caribbean icon as the romantic beach sunset. Vacations in the Caribbean are easy breezy beautiful with the help of impeccable travel service and hospitality. The differences between the Caribbean islands are part of what makes the region so appealing. Latin spirit in Cuba or the Dominican Republic meets upper-crust British reserve in Antigua, Rastafarianism in Jamaica and slightly snooty French chic in St Barthelemy or Martinique. Ferries connect many of the closer, smaller islands, and the change in vibe when you get off can be dramatic.

5.  The Sunset: For romantic getaways, the Caribbean should be your first choice.  A destination armed with  mouthwatering delicacies that tickle your senses, beautiful beaches, amazing and picturesque scenes and breath taking sunsets.  Those gorgeous stretches of sand and sea are every bit as spectacular in the light of the setting sun, with Easter egg–colored clouds floating overhead. Especially when you have someone to share them with all that melting and mingling and fiery touching.  It’s  no wonder that couples go there to get married, for their honeymoon and even renew their wedding vows. In the Caribbean the island are all unique and each one of these spots can be the perfect setting for romance—as long as you bring the right person. But then, that’s not up to the islands; that’s up to you!

Nature at its best !!