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The Caribbean is always a hugely popular winter destination for American travelers, but it looks like it will be even trendier than usual this season.
And there are many reasons for that, not to mention the fact that it’s not too far to travel, the weather is almost guaranteed to be great and there’s a wide range of destinations to choose from.
Many of the Caribbean’s popular countries are experiencing growth in the number of foreign visitors received in the fourth quarter of 2023, compared to 2019 figures – according to air ticket data analyzed by data experts at Testing forward.
It looks like this positive trend will continue in January and February 2024 – clearly showing that the Caribbean is the place to be.
And there are five paradise islands in this region that stand above the rest in terms of popularity – here they are:
Dominican Republic
It has been a record year for tourism in the Dominican Republic, and that upward trend is expected to continue until early 2024.
One of the Caribbean’s longest white-sand beaches (30 miles) in Punta Cana may be reason enough for many American travelers to consider a winter visit, but there are even more attractive factors to the Dominican Republic.
You can get there easily, and at a relatively low airfare, thanks to the country’s good connections with affordable airlines from all over the United States.
It is also a relatively safe place in the major holiday resorts and tourist towns. Just make sure you don’t drink the tap water.
American virgin islands
The three major islands that make up most of the U.S. Virgin Islands have been attracting tourists at a record pace year-round.
And perhaps that should come as no surprise: the island of St Croix is known for its pristine beaches and idyllic golf resorts, St John is renowned for its natural beauty, with two-thirds of the island being a national park, and St Thomas is a national park. a hive of colorful culture and a place to learn more about this region’s fascinating past.
Another major benefit of visiting the US Virgin Islands is that US citizens do not need a visa or even a passport when arriving from the mainland or Puerto Rico.
Curacao
This southern Caribbean island is home to tranquil bays, beautiful reefs and one of the largest and longest carnivals in the entire region.
The island is relatively remote and not only offers fantastic weather in winter, but is also a cultural melting pot with influences from Europe, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean combined.
Diving is one of the main attractions on this beautiful island, thanks to the healthy reefs surrounding it.
There are approximately 70 different dive sites in the area for all levels.
If you’re looking for a secluded escape, take a two-hour boat trip to the tiny island of Klein Curacao, where you’ll find pristine white sand and even more fantastic diving.
Turks and Caicos Islands
Considered one of the world’s top island destinations by Conde Nast Traveler readers, Turks and Caicos is made up of some 40 islands that really have no other description than paradise.
With sparkling turquoise waters that defy description, the islands here are ideal for everything from lazing on the beach to diving or fishing excursions.
Winter temperatures here are around 80 degrees, and a steady cooling breeze keeps you from cooking. The crime rates are extremely low and the people are very friendly.
Turks and Caicos Islands is a British Overseas Territory with a total population of just over 30,000.
Aruba
Aruba’s visitor numbers in the last quarter of 2023 are up 22% over 2019 figures, showing just how popular the country is becoming.
The island’s tourism industry is growing and evolving to meet this increase in visitors, with several new hotels and resorts under construction or recently opened.
So, what do all these visitors come to see?
Besides the quintessential combination of white beach and turquoise ocean, Aruba is also home to a fascinating colonial capital, a thriving arts scene, a rugged interior that can be explored on adventurous 4×4 tours, and the famous Flamingo Beach.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
