A family holiday in the Caribbean conjures up an image of white coral sands, palm trees, crystal clear waters, compulsive West Indian music and in childrens minds: pirates. With a fantastic holiday almost guaranteed there are basically three main decisions you have to make. First obviously is the price. Not so easy these days with the falling pound but many of our resorts are fighting back with discounts, and overall they compare very favorably with good resorts in the Mediterranean. When to go is also a crucial element in choosing a Caribbean holiday. Their climate is ideal in our winter months but of course the prices are higher and there are school term constraints. The weather is not as good during our summer months, although it is still mainly sunny and hot, but the prices are lower. The third choice may be more difficult - which island ?. As all our Caribbean resorts are attached to these fabled beaches and have facilities geared to providing you and your children the ultimate in family holidays, you have to go for the extra attractions on offer. Every Caribbean island is unique in different ways. The fascinating Fifties flavour of Cuba, the British Colonial charms of Barbados, the world-class windsurfing waves of the Dominican Republic, the twin mountain peaks of St Lucia, the 365 beaches of Antigua and the beautiful rain forests and botanical gardens in Jamaica.
Cuba - Try not to leave Cuba without visiting one of the cities such as Holquin, Santiago, Trinidad and especially the capital, Havana. All have ancient piazzas, old Spanish mansions and narrow cobble-stoned streets with South American music playing in the background.
Jamaica - Heard of Blue mountain coffee? Take a trip to where it is grown and on the way you will pass pineapple, sugarcane and banana plantations as well as some really picturesque villages. The kids will especially enjoy the method of transportations used in some of the plantations, in a tractor or on a camel. The mountainside views are also spectacular .
Antigua - Looking under the sea is a must. Take the kids to Bird Island where they can paddle canoes in and out of the mangroves on the lagoons before cooling off with a swim and a snorkel. Or take a boat trip out to the beautiful tropical coral reef off the shore for some serious snorkeling.
Barbados - Explore some of the natural wonders of Barbados like the stalactites and stalagmites in Harissons Cave. There’s an electric tram to carry you around, which is a big hit with the little ones. The Barbados Wildlife Reserve in the forest has lots of animals for the children to see including the famous Barbados Green Monkeys, flamingoes and pelicans.
St Lucia - Every Friday evening the little fishing village of Gros Islet holds a weekly mini-carnival. There is dancing in the streets to Reggae and Soca music, (they call it jump-up) and it will certainly get the kids jumping.
Dominican Republic - The waves on the north of the Dominican Republic are particularly good for surfing. At Sosua it is so good they hold the World Cup championship for Windsurfing there. At Cabarete, the latest sport is kite boarding and this is also in the world-class league. Just watching the professionals is fun for all the family and lessons are available for the less intimidated.
A fantastic option if you are after a luxury family holiday to the Caribbean. A large complex with plenty of fun for all the family
The Dominican Republic is becoming increasing popular family destination in the Caribbean. And this all inclusive resort has it all!
With free kids places and kids clubs, First Choice is a great option for family holidays to the Caribbean
Thomson offer a great range of family holidays to the Caribbean. Look out for their Free Kids places
