Caribbean Dreams

What do you want from your holiday? Relaxation? Adventure? A romantic getaway for just the two of you, or a family vacation with something for everyone? Whatever it is you need, chances are a Caribbean holiday can provide it for you, and much more too.

Caribbean Luxury
Magnificent views, beautifully furnished rooms, even private beaches. If you're after a touch of luxury, then the Caribbean is pure perfection. Try a spa resort such as Sandals, and enjoy massages, treatments, steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzis.

Caribbean Adventure
Surfing, cycling, sailing, kite surfing, waterfall hiking, zip lining: for adventurous spirits, the Caribbean has it all. From beginners to experts, whatever your activity, holidays to the Caribbean are a great opportunity to have fun, improve your skills and even meet like-minded souls.

Caribbean Sun
It won't come as surprise to you that the Caribbean has one of the most pleasant climates in the world. What might surprise you is the variety. For example, the island of Aruba is very warm and dry, tempered by delicious ocean breezes, but very little risk of more extreme winds. Dominica, on the other hand, is dominated by lush rainforests.

Caribbean Nightlife
From the casinos of Aruba to the live music of Barbados, to cabaret in the Dominican Republic, however you like to party, holidays in the Caribbean give you an excellent opportunity to let your hair down and have some serious fun.

Caribbean Peace
And if you're not so much of a party animal, there are islands for you as well. Montserrat, Dominica and the Grenadines are all recommended for those of you who value laid back, tranquil evenings, far away from any noise or bustle.

Caribbean Cruising
If you can't decide which island is for you, then a cruise is a brilliant way to sample a wide variety of them. Experience the unique local culture of each island, enjoy the glamour of cruise ship life, and go back to your own luxury cabin each night to get some sleep and wake up refreshed for a new day of adventures.

Caribbean Romance
An exotic destination wedding? A romantic honeymoon? Caribbean holidays were made for couples to share. Walk hand in hand along the secluded beach, watching the sun set over the palm trees; have adventures together; indulge in luxury dining, or simply enjoy long lazy lie-ins together in one of the Caribbean's many wonderful hotels and guest houses.

Caribbean Fun
The Caribbean is also a wonderful destination for families with children. Try swim-up movies in the Almond Beach Village in Barbados, family yoga in Atlantis on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, pirate-themed fun in the Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands or Crayola art camps in Jamaica. Whatever your kids are into, a Caribbean holiday is a chance for them to have fun with it. Even picky teenagers will have a hard time not finding something for them.

Caribbean Ecology
Look out for eco resorts like Maho Bay Camps and Concordia where you can stay in tent cottages, take classes in making art from recycled materials or go bird-watching, safe in the knowledge that you are helping to preserve the islands' precious ecosystems.

But what's the very best thing of all about the Caribbean? In my book it's that you can mix all of these things together. People aren't stereotypes who like either massages or kite surfing or nightclubs. Parents aren't averse to having a bit of couple time as well as indulging the kids. It's not just that the Caribbean has something for everyone, it's that there's something for every part of you.

Holidays Please are a UK based Online Travel Agent, they provide both luxury Caribbean holidays and Hawaii holidays to many clientèle within the UK.

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Caribbean Cruising Vs Galapagos Cruising

The Galapagos Islands are such a special and unique place that it's no wonder the cruising out here is special and unique as well! What are the key differences between "Mega" Caribbean Cruising and Galapagos Cruising? Let's take a look:

SIZE

Cruising in the Caribbean is generally associated with the mega ships: Some cruises boast accommodation for 3000 plus passengers! The current largest cruise ship in the world, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas, is 362 meters (1,187 ft) in length, 63 meters (208 ft) in width, and has the capacity for 5,400 passengers, and 2,165 crew members. The structure weighs in at 225,000 gross tons!

Compare this floating city with an average Galapagos vessel, holding 16 passengers, and it's like comparing apples and oranges! The newest catamaran to the islands, the Nina, for example, measures 32 meters in length (105 ft), is 12 meters wide (39 ft), and weighs 360 gross tons. Both boats offer the traveler a wealth of experiences, but how do those experiences vary?

ON-BOARD ACTIVITIES

The mega-ships offer lots to do while at sea: Casinos, restaurants, coffee bars, waterslides, Broadway-style shows, skating rinks, rock-climbing walls, splash pools and so much more! There are activities for young and old, from children's programs to BINGO games and scrap booking workshops.

Galapagos cruises offer a completely different range of on-board experiences. The restaurants are replaced by personal chefs for the passengers, waiters that know your name, and Captains that eat dinner at your table! The waterslide and wave pool are replaced by daily swimming in the ocean with sea lions and a relaxing Jacuzzi under the stars. Who needs a skating rink and rock wall when your daily hikes have you visiting lagoons, scampering over lava rocks, and climbing into volcanic craters? The shows, of course, aren't performed by professional singers and dancers, but by the fascinating Galapagos wildlife that you come across with every step. Watching the Blue Footed Booby mating dance is a performance of its own! Seeing the Waved Albatross take flight by jumping off a cliff at Española Island is a show that you'll have a first row seat for in Galapagos!

SHORE EXCURSIONS

The large cruise lines offer various shore excursions, depending on their ports of call. Stingray City in the Cayman Islands, snorkeling trips in Cozumel, scuba diving from St. Bart's...the list goes on and on. Each port of call on your adventure offers a range of activities and highlights with an extra charge for each one.

Galapagos cruises generally offer two to three visits a day, with an average of two land visits and a snorkeling excursion per day, constant close-up whale and dolphin watching, and star gazing in the evening, all included in the cost of the cruise. Each land visit offers a completely different landscape, and brings you up close and personal to a vast array of Galapagos animals: in the water, on land, and in the sky. Galapagos boasts unique and endemic (not found anywhere else in the world) animal species, over 400 fish species, and is a birders heaven, with over 58 species of birds, and of course...the archipelago is Darwin's Living Laboratory!

SERVICES

Here is where the differences between the two cruising styles lessen. Both mega-ships and Galapagos vessels offer luxury service, such as incredible cooking, experienced and professional staff members, punctual and on-going housekeeping, and service with a smile. The biggest difference with the Galapagos' smaller ships is the level of personal service. With 10 crew and 1 guide for a 16 passenger yacht, for example, your days on board are like a "home away from home", where staff know your name, you become friends with other passengers, and your evening 5 star meal is served up under the stars, the sound of the lapping water surrounds you, and the warm Galapagos breeze blows through your hair.

Every traveler has their own personal style and standard for taking a cruise. Why not experience the Galapagos first hand and find out for yourself everything the Enchanted Islands have to offer? The staff at www.galapagosislands.com are happy to accommodate your every need to plan this special once-in-a-lifetime experience.

All you need to know about traveling to the Galapagos Islands. We are from the Galapagos Islands and our job is to find the right cruise for you. We count with a selected team of professional trip advisors who will assist you in planing your trip to Galapagos for free. For immediate and further assistance, please click here: http://www.galapagosislands.com/design-galapagos-cruise.html

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A Guide to Taking a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Cruises are a favorite amongst those who are looking forward to relax and rejuvenate while on vacation. A peaceful cruise down a beautiful sea or ocean can calm your nerves and make you feel fresh and energetic again. However there are many cruise lines in the sea and selecting one may be a difficult job. The Caribbean islands are an extremely popular destination for singles, families and kids! The highlight of holidaying around Caribbean islands is the cruises which are known to be extremely romantic and amorous!

If you decide on taking the Royal Caribbean Cruise you must have a look at its website. There are many things that you may not be aware of while you narrow in for this as an option. The website is extremely informative and may help you make some wide decisions while on it.

The royal Caribbean cruise may be quite expensive for some; however you can consider renting smaller cabins to save on money. Smaller cabins are obviously cheaper than the large ones with panoramic views of the sea. You do not have to be in your cabin all day. It is just a place to retire to at the end of the day. Most of the fun takes place on the deck. You can book online and advance to save the trouble during the rush hours and day! If you are looking for a calm and peaceful experience chose the off seasons which may have fewer people around and will be less noisy and busy. You can look for the best deals on line. The cruise occasionally offers package deals which may be able to make you more comfortable! You need not have a long stay on board. A day and a night will be able to give you the entire experience without you having to burn a hole in your pocket.

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From Cruises to Caribbean Live Performances

Great number of cruises visit the Caribbean year after year to hear its best sounds. With African heritage, Caribbean is among the most lively places you could actually visit being a music lover. In the Caribbean you will see the finest Reggae players like Bob Marley during the 70s.

Costa Rica, Antigua and Barbuda has been known for bringing entertainment for tourists on cruises. The restaurants and bars located in these areas would usually release a monthly list of line up so you get to choose which performer you wan to see. This list would help you have an idea on the places of nightlife and great music in the Caribbean.

Café Mango

Located in the Southern part of the Caribbean, Costa Rica hosts one of the best places in the Caribbean for jazz, Reggae and other styles of music performed live. You could choose from a variety of performers throughout the week from Latino Salsa, hip hop and other genres that could get you on your feet. Situated within the proximity of the best hotels in Costa Rica, this place is a favorite for most people on a cruise ship.

Russel's Bar & Seafood Restaurant

Located in the very historic Fort James in Antigua, Russel's Bar & Seafood Restaurant allows its customers not only to enjoy the music but also the rich history dating back to 18th century! Only this place could attract you to get the best steamed cockles dabbed by the fines wine sauce.

Aside from the delights that gets t be enjoyed by your palate, you could find the most elegant jazz music in this place during the weekend. But if you are going to visit the place, make sure you arrive before sun sets! With a picturesque sunset, this place is also romantic getaway and a highlight of your tour to the Caribbean.

Shirley Heights

Located in the National parks and having the vantage point over English and Falmouth Harbour, this place is among the best views that you could get to visit on your Caribbean tour. Dubbed as one of the best party places on the island their parties start as early as 4pm during Thursdays and Sundays. And the Aside form the fact that you get to enjoy good music and good food, you should definitely come on a Thursday as their entrance is free of charge plus you get to see a Steel Band performance!

The Coast

The Coast is located in Heritage Quay. This venue is home to one of the best dockside venue of Antigua with nightly live music. Quality live performances start from 10pm onwards. Local artists and bands typically set the night's mood from Calypso, to reggae to some of the most popular tunes today. The Coast is among the most visited Caribbean spots especially during the weekend!

From cruises, you could get to enjoy the best of what Caribbean has to offer with its live performances. In these places, not only will you enjoy a great view of what the Caribbean is all about, but you also get to have the best foods out there.

John Michael Jayme visits the Caribbean yearly to see the best performances. He affords of the cheap Caribbean vacations available today.

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The Wonders Of A Western Caribbean Cruise

Many people who have taken ocean voyages have started with a Western Caribbean Cruise. It's not only because it is a wonderful journey, but you'll also visit many beautiful places. It is a very relaxing and informative cruise. You'll soon be on your way to a very exciting week on the ocean.

The first thing that will need to be taken care of is the booking of the trip. It is suggested that you contact a travel agent or go online to make your booking. Once you have done this, your adventure begins in a week or two. You will not soon forget the trip. It must be noted that you will need to make your own arrangements for transportation to your ship and departure port.

Once you arrive at ship side, just about everything is taken care of for you. Your luggage will be tagged and sent to your room, and when you arrive at your stateroom, all of your luggage will be there waiting for you. You will also be given a passenger identification card. This will allow you to leave the ship in port and get back on board when you are through with your tours or town visit.

After you have settled in, your ships staff will notify you of your dining area and you will be given the opportunity to choose your dining time, either early or late dining. After you have been informed where you'll be seated for meals, you may want to take a tour around the ship. You'll need time to find things and the different places you'll be using during your voyage.

As the ship leaves port, you will be on your way to an exciting adventure and fun times ahead. It's just about meal time and that will give you a chance to meet your service staff. These are the folks that will be helping you at meal time. These people are kind, and are there to make your meal a very enjoyable experience.

After your meal, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a show, take in a movie or spend some time in the gaming area. Probably, your next day you'll be pulling into some port like Belize City, Grand Cayman or maybe Cozumel. There're also places like Montego Bay in Jamaica or a very pretty part of Mexico, a small town called Playa Del Carmen. Each port usually offers enough time to book a tour of the area. Check with the ship tour booking office.

Finally, the trip must come to an end. You'll have some wonderful memories for ever. Once docked in port, you'll need to settle up on any money you owe. You should be aware that you should save back enough money to leave a nice tip to your staff who met your needs while on board. Surely you'll be telling all your friends about your Western Caribbean Cruise and the lifetime of memories you have gained.

Looking for more information on a Western Caribbean cruise check out my blog at http://caribbeancruiseblog.org/

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A Look at Some of the Best Crewed Charter Yachts in the Caribbean

As another Season begins in the Caribbean I thought I would write a bit about some of my favourite crewed yachts out there. I have picked a selection of boats ranging from 45 to 80 Feet, all boats that I personally have been on and Crews that I personally have met (and would recommend!). As it is a favoured chartering ground for many most of these Yachts are based in the British Virgin Islands, some however do charter in the Leeward and Windward Islands (St Maarteen, Antigua, Grenadines etc). Really when it comes down to it though the BVI does have everything to offer, with hundreds of islands in the area you can choose from quiet & secluded anchorages, to busy beach bars and lively restaurants.

Take a look at our suggestions and see what you think:

Viking Dream (Leopard 4700)- An Immaculate and Comfortable Yacht, Viking Dream is personally Owned buy its wonderful Crew Mark and Sally. They are a fun and experienced crew with a love for Chartering and the Islands, a perfect boat for 3 couples or a family Mark & Sally can adapt to either. Their enthusiasm, fun personalities and years of experience will ensure that your vacation in the British Virgin Islands is one that you will never forget.

AdAstra (Lagoon 57)- Bridget and Barry are a seasoned Crew who have been running charters on Ad Astra for 4 years now. With a zest for adventure they love to travel when working and when on vacation, they are sure to have many stories and experiences to share with you. AdAstra is a well kept boat, with many new additions each year. She sleeps 8 people in 3 Queens and 1 Bunk Beds, with a great out side dining area as well as a large salon. Perfect for Couples and Families. In May, Ad Astra will be heading over to the Mediterranean more Adventures so either make the most of then in the Caribbean or try an adventure with them in Corsica and Sardinia this Summer. Bridget and Barry are fun, considerate and always aiming to please. Their love of AdAstra and chartering is shown in the presentation of the Yacht... Chartering with them is a once in a lifetime vacation, you will want to go back again and again!

Pas De Deux (Fountaine Pajot 60) - Rodrigo and Kerry embody everything that is needed to be a fantastic charter crew, they have been in the British Virgin Islands for several years now and after perviously running larger yachts they prefer the more personal aspect of chartering with just 2 crew. Pas De Deux offers an added bit of luxury in the decor of a charter yacht, with Kerry presenting it beautifully, you will find hidden extras such as bath robes and personalised towels that you may not find on all our yachts. Rodrigo and Kerry bring with them their high standards and a personal touch that will not be missed. Pas De Deux offers 3 Queen Cabins, the Master offering a walk around bed and walk in shower. Kerry is a fantastic Chef, and both Kerry and Rodrigo are a relaxed, friendly, fun & at the same time professional couple to be around. A charter with them is truly 1st Class!

Soterion (Lagoon 570) (previously DOUBLE FEATURE) A lovely Yacht, one guest liked her so much he bought her back in 2009! Sleeping 8 guests in 4 Queen Cabins(one with walk in shower), she has a spacious salon & cockpit area. Sasha and Tara have crewed Soterion for the almost 2 years keeping her updated each season. They are a lovely couple who delight in sharing their Caribbean experiences with you.

Avalon (Lagoon 620) is one of the newer boats to the fleet. Launched in 2010 with Paul and Mel who were involved throughout the build process, Avalon has been decorated tastefully throughout, she is fantastically spacious and has a lovely light and airy feel. She sleeps 10 guests and also offers diving. Both Paul and Mel are passionate about sailing and love to share their adventures with their guests. Their love for the islands shines through when they are sailing and showing you around. Mel is an accomplished Chef, always adding to her skills with new courses, she enjoys pushing herself to the next level in her gourmet offerings. Paul is an experienced Captain who is great fun to be around, he is always happy to show you the ropes (literally) or take on the sailing himself. A charter on this stunning new Yacht is sure to impress and Paul and Mel will leave you with memories hard to forget!

Kings Ransom (Matrix 76)- If you really want to be pampered in luxury then a charter on Kings Ransom is ideal. At 76ft this catamaran sleeps 10, all with ensuite bathrooms and walk in showers, the master cabin being particularily special with wraparound windows and a bath tub! The cockpit is very spacious with a large dining table, on the second deck there is plenty of sunbathing space and a hot tub! Your Crew Emily and Euros bring with them years of experience chartering. Emily is a masterful chef and Euros an accomplished Captain. Joining them to keep the level of service you would expect on a larger yacht like this are 2 further crew. If you want to enjoy that added bit of luxury Kings Ransom is where you will find it. Available not only in the BVI but throughout the Caribbean. Due to a recent cancellation Kings Ransom is now available for Christmas up until 26th December.

If you would like to enquire about any of these Yachts please drop us an Email (info@jkyachtcharters.com).
If you cannot see what you are looking for here try using our Yacht Search Page to take a look at some other yachts or get in touch with us and we will recommend something more suited to your criteria. There are many wonderful yachts and crews out there to choose from, we want to help find the right one for YOU!

JK Yacht Charters, specialising in booking Luxury Crewed Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Representing 100's of Boats, Crewed & Bareboat, Catamaran, Monohull & Motor Yachts.

http://www.jkyachtcharters.com/

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The Dominican Republic: The Heart of the Caribbean

The Dominican Republic is growing in popularity as one of the most popular destinations for Caribbean holidays. Not to be confused with Dominica; a much smaller island located in the Caribbean Sea between the Windward and Leeward island groups some 500 miles south east. The Dominican Republic shares the much larger island of Hispaniola with its neighbour Haiti and has a population of around 10 million. It's capitol city, Santa Domingo is home to 3.2 million people and is located on the countries south central coastline. Santa Domingo was founded in 1496 and is the oldest continually inhabited European settlement in the Americas and is also home to the first cathedral built in the Americas too.

Tourism accounts for 14% of the nations' employment and is a major contributor to the Dominican Republic's economic growth as tourism provides 1 in 7 jobs. The Dominican Republic is now the largest tourist destination for Caribbean holidays. The currency is the Dominican Peso, however both US dollars and the Euro is accepted in most tourist spots making it a popular choice for both American and European travellers. The main language is Spanish but many of the tourist hotspots do have more than their fair share of English speakers.

As well as a multitude of hotels, there is also a growing number of villas for rent throughout the region. Many of these are purpose built and feature air conditioning, swimming pools and tennis courts. It's also not uncommon for a butler or maid to be on call in many of the Dominican Republic villas for rent and in some high end luxury villas, a security guard can also be provided. With over 250 miles of coastline and the world renowned pristine white sandy beaches, many villas for rent can be found in beach front locations with unhindered views of the Atlantic ocean or Caribbean sea. Many inland villas pride themselves on having hill top locations with expansive views over the island and the seas beyond its shores.

The people are passionate about baseball, however the tourist industry has made way for golf and a multitude of water sports including swimming, wind surfing, scuba diving and water skiing. Historically the capitol is home to many medieval buildings dating from the 16th century as well as The Royal Houses Museum which is home to many artefacts dating from the 15th century and the archaeological museum featuring much older artefacts from the indigenous Taino people. From a huge range of hotels and luxury Dominican Republic villas to rent, to stunning beaches, sports and tourist traps, it's no wonder why the Dominican Republic is a major destination for Caribbean holidays.

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Exotic Luxury Cruises to the Caribbean

When the weather outside is frightful, you know during the cold bleak days of winter, nothing can warm your cockles more then a Caribbean luxury cruise with stops at many exotic ports of call. A warm sunny tropical destination is just what the winter blahs ordered and it's hard to beat an all inclusive cruise where you are waited on hand and foot and all your worries and cares drift away on the warm tropical breezes.

Or maybe you're trying to think of a romantic honeymoon trip. A Caribbean cruise could be just the ticket, with you and your spouse spending romantic days at tropical ports and enchanted evenings aboard ship.

In fact if you are thinking of getting married during the cold winter months why not combine the wedding and honeymoon aboard ship. Luxury cruises cater to onboard weddings where the captain presides over the ceremony. Most wedding ceremonies aboard cruise ships take place before the ship leaves port but the cool part is that the honeymoon begins the moment the cruise leaves the dock. There are a few things that will need to be done in advance, such as making sure to bring a marriage license and making the wedding plans with the cruise line so that everything is ready when you and the rest of the wedding party arrives.

The idea of getting married aboard a ship is a very romantic proposition for many people. A ship board ceremony can also be appealing for those who wish to renew their vows in a truly memorable way. And once all the ceremony is over the ship will leave port and begin the voyage to its many Caribbean ports of call.

This isn't to say that Caribbean luxury cruises are for newlyweds only they are also the perfect get away for just about anyone, including families with kids of just about any age. Cruises with Caribbean destinations are a great way to get away from the snow and cold of the winter season. Who doesn't want to spend their days enjoying the warm sunny sandy beaches while their friends are huddled around the fire back home?

The Caribbean has quite a large number of destinations which gives the intrepid cruise goer many options to choose from. There are Western, Eastern, and Southern Caribbean cruises to choose from ranging from 3 to 15 days. It pays to do some research before making a final decision as to which cruise to take, but chances are there is a luxury Caribbean cruise out there that appeals to you.

For more detailed information about Luxury Cruise Deals please visit the website Travel-Choices-Net.com by clicking here.

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Luxury Caribbean All Inclusive Holidays Are A Steal Of a Deal

When nothing but the best will do, seasoned travellers turn to the tried and true way to get the best and get it for less. Luxury Caribbean holidays hit the spot to refresh and relax with sugar sand beaches, animated rain forests and enough action and adventure to please Indiana Jones. Living in the lap of Caribbean luxury is more affordable than you may think when you opt for the smart way to get there with an all inclusive luxury Caribbean holiday plan.

The all inclusive travel plan has hit the mark and is here to stay. Regarded as the most cost efficient way to see the world, the all inclusive travel plan takes care of everything whether you opt for a budget, moderate or luxury style getaway. In addition to sensational savings on the top Caribbean island destinations, the all inclusive way to go ensures your peace of mind with all your bases covered and paid for before you leave your home town. The travel industry is changing, offering total package deals to meet consumer demands, and the luxury sun seeker has plenty of options for pricing, convenient departures and target destinations.

Your luxury Caribbean all inclusive plan covers your international airfare, round trip airport transfers, deluxe sea view accommodation, all meals from a brilliant buffet, and on-site recreation and beach front activities to fill the day. In addition, wedding and honeymoon luxury Caribbean all inclusive holiday plans are available to tie the knot on a golden shore or re-live the passion and breathe life into romance again.

The luxury Caribbean all inclusive packages are ideal for family travel, romantic escapes or a well-deserved self-indulgence for the solo traveler who wants it all. Regional activities that may be added to your Caribbean dreams include swimming with the dolphins, thrilling zip rides through the rain forests, challenging hiking and biking trails and village shopping for duty-free best bargain deals.

To secure your favorite Caribbean island with your first choice of opulent hotel, be sure to make your reservations early, at least one season in advance. However, late luxury deals to the Caribbean islands abound with low cost package rates from the Bahamas to Bermuda. Though the Caribbean islands differ in terrain and ambiance, they all have one thing in common: they want your business and they want it bad. So shop and save with consumer incentives to get the best and get it for less with early booking to secure your slice of paradise at the price you want to pay.

Click here for great deals and offers on The House Barbados, luxury holiday Mauritius and honeymoon holidays.

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