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Winter is the most best time of year to escape to the Caribbean.
There’s no better time to escape the cold weather (and the holiday madness) and relax on stretches of white-sand beaches.
The Caribbean is conveniently close to the US, which is one of the reasons it is such a popular region for American travelers: 61% of Caribbean visitors come from the US. But where should you go?
According to a new report from Amadeusthese are the 5 most popular destinations in the Caribbean to visit this winter:
5. Aruba
With white sand and turquoise water, the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba is every beach lover’s dream come true.
Aruba is an idyllic island with sunshine all year round, but it really comes into its own in the winter months.
Some of Aruba’s best beaches include Eagle Beach, Baby Beach and Arashi Beach. Because Aruba is such a compact island, it’s easy to see them all in one trip.
If you dare to drag yourself off the beach, the capital Oranjestad is one of the most iconic and important sights in Aruba. You can enjoy the Dutch colonial architecture and here you will also find the best restaurants and shops.
Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba, which explores more than 3,500 years of life in Aruba and offers interactive displays suitable for both adults and children.
Admission is free, but a suggested donation of $5 per person is encouraged.
4. Cuba
Cuba is an intriguing destination that many American travelers would like to visit, solidifying its place as the 4the most popular destination in the Caribbean.
Cuba has a rich culture and hospitable people, sugar sand beaches and historic architecture.
Cuba is a province with 2 different types of holidays: You can explore cities such as Havana, where you can find colonial buildings and records of historical events and gain a better insight into the daily lives of the Cuban people.
Havana is the place to visit museums, drink rum and dance the night away! A classic car tour of Havana is the best way to see the city prices from $50.
Or you can visit seaside resorts such as Varadero, where the beaches are picture-perfect. Most all-inclusive resorts in Cuba are located here. Many tourists choose a ‘2 center’ holiday for the best of both worlds.
As an added bonus, we recently reported that Cuba has updated its entry rules for American travelers, making this previously impossible-to-explore country easier than ever to visit.
3. Jamaica
US travelers have been advised to reconsider travel to Jamaica by the US Department of State, which has issued a Level 3 travel advisory to the country. But that doesn’t seem to have slowed down the interest in this Caribbean island at all!
Jamaica is the 3rd most popular Caribbean destination. If you’re looking for a fly-and-flop vacation where you can relax and unwind at some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, this is a great choice!
Jamaica has great beaches, amazing food and an incredible music scene, all of which adds to the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. For this reason, Jamaica is often referred to as the cultural capital of the Caribbean.
If you want to learn more about the island’s cultural influence, Jamaica was the birthplace of Bob Marley and is home to a great museum dedicated to the artist. Housed in his former home, admission to the Bob Marley House Museum costs $25 per person.
2. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has skyrocketed in popularity, jumping from 4e most sought after Caribbean destination last year to the 2i.e now.
Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, U.S. travelers do not need a passport to visit the country. This means it’s one of the easiest Caribbean destinations to explore, especially for first-time travelers.
Puerto Rico has so much to offer. Of course you will find tropical beaches with crystal clear water here.
But you can also explore natural attractions such as waterfalls and hiking trails, and discover Puerto Rico’s fascinating culture.
Highlights of a trip to Puerto Rico include exploring the art at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and relaxing in the natural pools of Mar Chiquita.
If you only have time to visit one beach, choose El Escambrón, a vast expanse of white sand and voted the most picturesque beach in Puerto Rico.
1. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is officially the most popular destination in the Caribbean for the 2i.e years active.
Here you can see the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south, but the most popular beach resort is Punta Cana. Thanks to the 33 kilometers of sandy beaches, there is room for everyone, even in the high season in winter!
The Dominican Republic is known for the high quality of its hotels and resorts, as well as for the abundance of natural attractions.
Some of the best activities you can do here include visiting the national parks. Los Tres Ojos National Park is a vast oasis that is easily accessible and offers the chance to swim in freshwater pools while relaxing in the natural environment. The The entrance fee is RD$100 ($2.21).
If you’re looking for an activity with a bit more energy, try a hike to the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua. Here you can jump from the waterfalls and slide down the rocks.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
