Category: Caribbean
Conversations with Strangers: Cakes and Suitcases ✈️
This time we talked packing for flights, bottles of rum, house prices and baking cakes. Conversations with strangers can work more wonders than you’ll ever know!!
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Dear Jamaica
How to Speak Jamaican!! A Great Book for Newbies to Jamaica
There’s more to Jamaican patois than ‘irie’ and ‘yeah man’. If you want to get a better grip on Jamaican patois, this funny little book gives you some common words and phrases written with a Jamaican dialect and pronunciation.
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A Quiet Night in Tobago: Star Gazing Before Bedtime
On a quiet night in Tobago, I sit out on the upstairs veranda and look heavenwards into the ink black abyss above. The sky offers a sparkly shelter, with stars shimmering like jewels in the light, it’s the kind of sky that hypnotises, and locks you in a ‘starry eyed’ trance. I see a shooting […]
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The most Popular Beach in Tobago: Pigeon Point
Pigeon point is the beach that seems to gets all the attention on the Caribbean island of Tobago.
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Eleuthera Bahamas: A Tropical Trance on Harbour Island
Eleuthera is a charming island in The Bahamas, with beaches that will leave you speechless and a peacefulness that makes it hard to leave.
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A Bahamas Holiday: 12 Reasons why It’s not Just A Pretty Beach!!
The Bahamas has a lot more to it than just beaches – including pineapple festivals, pirates, wine cellars, and snow.
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A Trip To The Beach: A True Story
An artistic Jovellanos farm
One more post from Cuba before I forget! Ever been to an organic farm that’s also an art gallery and pottery production centre? Well neither had I until this lovely little trip. This family run farm in the Cuban region of Jovellanos is home to it’s owners who have recently opened it up for tourist […]
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To go or not to go? Cuba Varadero: Touristy but Nice!
Tourist trap? Varadero might be beautifully beachy, but if you want to experience Cuba properly you need to venture away from this artificial beach strip, and explore the ‘real’ Cuba.
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Iberostar Bella Vista Varadero Hotel
A beach front Iberostar hotel in Varadero Cuba with absolutely brilliant entertainment in the theatre each night.
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Glad I went to Trinidad
My favourite part of my trip to Cuba were the days spent in the Cuban town of Trinidad. The pictures may not convey this but ‘what a dramatic place’ frozen in time and bursting with life, colour and charisma. The atmosphere is just fantastic, live music and vibrancy everywhere you look. I loved Trinidad instantly, […]
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Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad Cuba
The Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad Cuba, has to be in one of the best locations in Trinidad, centrally located and surrounded by lively cobbled streets buzzing with locals and tourists alike. It’s an adults-only hotel and serves more as a city-stop type of accommodation, since there was no outdoor areas or pool – probably because you should […]
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Snapshots of Cienfuegos
More insights from the beautiful island and people of Cuba. Cienfuegos actually means ‘one hundred fires’. Cienfuegos is where the revolutionary uprising against Fulgencio Batista took place.
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Beach Banter #7
Walking on water! I saw three men walking on water – it’s not brilliant but watch the hastily filmed clip! I’m not sure if he stepped on a jellyfish or what but something startled him…..in Cayo Ensenachos. I tried to rescue a Jellyfish This is the first jellyfish I’ve come face to face with, it […]
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Doing the Locomotive in San Juan de Los Remedios
San Juan de Los Remedios is one of the oldest colonial towns in Cuba. Just mind yourself when you’re crossing the wonderfully busy roads….. The sugar mills are interesting, but the sight of those locomotive trains was show stopping; they’re just huge, mighty and seeped in history – beautiful! The roar of the steam and […]
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Books on the Beach: An Accidental Tourist, A Caribbean Misadventure
I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘An Accidental Tourist’ by Jason Smart, it was like really good reality TV on paper. Jason records his travel escapades, highs and lows, and points of interest in this easy to read book. The book brought back memories of some of my own caribbean travels, making for some interesting comparisons. Jason’s […]
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Iberostar Hotel Cayo Ensenachos, Cuba
After lunch at the Los Tainos restaurant at the Hotel Los Caneyes, Santa Clara – we were on the road again heading for the small Cuban off-shore island of Cayo Ensenachos to the Iberostar Ensenachos Hotel. It’s quite secluded, there is no nearby town to walk to – just beautiful beach and plenty of mangroves, […]
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Taxi!!
You won’t be short of taxi options in Cuba, that’s for sure. I’ve never seen so many variations in one place – talk about spoilt for choice!! There’s a taxi type for all tastes – short of a flying taxi…
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Here’s 20 facts about Cuba you don’t really hear about
Cigars and Caves in the Vinales Valley
Day three of the Cuban Experience tour took us into some of the most scenic views I had the pleasure of seeing in Cuba. The Vinales valleys are deep, high, lush and never-ending. The Vinales region is an approximately 2hr 30 mins drive from Havana and a flourishing expanse dotted with tobacco farms. You will […]
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The Beneficiaries of New U.S.-Cuba Regulations (Re-Blog)
Cuba is more than just cigars and vintage cars – it’ relationship with the rest of the work still raises questions about it’s future in terms of trade and tourism.
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Iberostar Parque Central Hotel Havana Cuba
After three nights at the Iberostar Parque Central, here are a few pictures in case you’re curious or planning a stay there yourself. The hotel is described as one of the best hotels in the centre of Havana (I guess this depends what type of scene you’re into – a modern type of look rather […]
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Tap Taps To Trinidad: Caribbean Adventures
Now I know what a ‘tap tap’ is!!! I had no idea before reading this book. Tap Taps To Trinidad, by Zenga Longmore, is a quirky little book that tells the tales of a woman’s (largely solo) experiences of hopping around a number of caribbean islands, somewhat naively at times. She seems to have a […]
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Second Chances
Every new day offers a new start, new chances, reasons to begin, reasons to continue, reasons to persevere. Each sunset is a reminder of this. No two sunsets look the same, just as no two days are the same, we shape and mould each one in a unique way, never to be repeated twice. Photographs […]
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Contemplating Tomorrow
Seize moments, grab opportunities, have faith, be courageous, pursue your goals, live your dreams. Each sunset symbolises the promise of a new tomorrow, so start as you mean to go on. It seems like motivational quotes have come the new ‘thing’ on social media; we can’t get away from them, and sometimes they seem repetitive, […]
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Head In The Clouds
Cloudy skies are not always gloomy. Clouds are some of the most beautiful things you can rest your eyes on. Sunsets touch the soul, warm the heart, encourage reflection and thought, remind us of the beauty this world holds and the ceaseless awe and wonder we feel each time we see it. Photographs taken in […]
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Reflecting On Today, Heading for Tomorrow
Start now, today, why wait until tomorrow to start as you mean to go on? A quote I came across sums it up with ” excuses will always be there for you, opportunities will not” Make that change, take those steps, build that momentum and keep it going. You will thank yourself someday. Sometimes the […]
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Dover Beach
Literally on the lower end of St Lawrence Gap, Barbados with more nice blue seas and soft sand, and plenty of shade. Dover beach seemed a bit more relaxed and quieter than Accra beach (which is off a busier main road).
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Down Town: Bridge Town, Barbados
The capital of Barbados, a hub of busy hustle and bustle, compared to a lot of other caribbean islands, Barbados seemed to have very big ‘town centre’ with lots of little back streets and side shops. If you’re an avid browser, you can go on and on in Bridgetown, as long as you can take […]
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Out and About Barbados #1
St Nicholas Abbey
St Nicholas Abbey, one of Barbados’ oldest plantations, was built in 1658. Woodlands and plantation (including Cherry Tree Hill) sugar cane fields, the plantation house, rum tasting, the boiling house for rum and sugar – all form part of this heritage site and popular tourist attraction. I’d recommend visiting via a ‘Glory Tours’ package. SaveSaveSaveSave
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On The Buses, Barbados
From large blue government owned buses to small privately run white mini buses, you won’t be waiting long for a ride. Mini bus drivers will often beep at you and call out to see if you ned a ride if they see you walking (no chance of that back at home lol!). A few short […]
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Lunch on the Marina, Bridgetown Barbados
Once you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle of the shops and heat, head over to the harbour (aka ‘Deep Water Harbour’) for lunch and drinks by the boats and watch the water glisten in the sun! Bridgetown may be the capital city of Barbados, but it still manages to pull of a chilled, relaxing […]
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Go West! Barbados
Accra Beach
Yellow Bird Hotel: Barbados
Budget friendly, highly praised and value for money I’m a stickler for reviews, Trip Adviser etc…and was really impressed with the overwhelming positive feedback on the Yellow Bird Hotel Barbados. Furthermore, it’s very reasonably priced in comparison to the big east/west coast, all-inclusive resorts. If you’re on a tight budget, or want to claw back more […]
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Bathsheba Beach, Atlantic Coast
Rustic atlantic waves Popular with surfers – hosts annual surfing championships SaveSave
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Quick Supermarket Trip, Barbados
Wild Thing! Barbados
At one with nature It was like walking through a scene in a fairytale. Monkey’s swinging all over the place, various animals wandering around you as you take in everything the reserve has to offer. Please watch your step, and don’t tread on any passing turtles like I almost did, they are everywhere, and will […]
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Friday Night at Oistins Fish Fry Barbados
Oistins fish fry is an absolute must, especially when you’re in Barbados for the first time, along with the likes of Harbour Lights. Oistins is a fishing village in Christ Church, Barbados (not far from St Lawrence Gap). The food may not be free but you pay nothing for the music and atmosphere. The vibe […]
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Lively Nights at Harbour Lights Barbados!
Yellow Submarine, well not quite!
Since I’d never been on a submarine before, and I adore tropical fish – this seemed like really good excursion to cross off the list whilst in Barbados. Now we cross over from our boat to the submarine Down the hatch (not for the claustrophobic) Know your fish. At this point or commentator starts to suggest […]
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Barbados: St Lawrence Gap is Where it’s at?
Anyone who knows anything about Barbados will be familiar with all the hype surrounding St Lawrence Gap. Party scene Clubs Bars Restaurants Nightlife Street vendors All things touristy Down to earth Affordable hotels Lively vibe Dover beach Close to Oistins and Bridgetown It just wouldn’t be right not to spend at least a few nights in the […]
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Farewell Antigua
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Antigua and Barbuda, and wouldn’t hesitate to stay at the Verandah Resort & Spa again in the future, a nice little hideaway. I’ll miss the butterflies, and pretty beaches. Farewell Antigua, until next time….. 😘
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Out and About in Antigua
Devil’s Bridge on the atlantic coast, with plenty of crashing waves Betty’s Hope Sugar Plantation Roots Views of Montserrat in the distance
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Antigua: Shirley Heights
Shirley Heights is one of the most well known tourist spots on the island of Antigua, within the English Harbour area, visited for its beautiful views of the island from the most southern point. Live music is played every Sunday evening, drawing a regular crowd for food and dancing. It certainly ‘is’ on the steep […]
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Turner’s Beach, Antigua
Turner’s beach is quiet a beautiful powdery beach on the west coast of Antigua, perfect for a day of lounging if you don’t require much shade. The guide books advise you to avoid this beach during the cruise ship/peak season as the beauty of the beach is spoilt with all the crowds and commotion. Fortunately […]
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Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua
Nelson’s Dockyard is a national park, a historic site restored from 1743; it forms part of the English Harbour area of Antigua and is also an operational Georgian naval facility. British ships used to be repaired, restocked or disposed of here. Marinas and boats on a backdrop of blue water always make for a lovely […]
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Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda
We Are Sailing To Barbuda
Sailing to Barbuda should definately be in you Antigua itinerary if you’re seeking caribbean peace and simplicity, untouched beaches and a noticeable lack of tourists – Barbuda might just be what you’re looking for, in sharp contrast to it’s built up sister island of Antigua. Some of the coastlines are quite rugged and rocky with […]
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Long Bay Beach
Just a few minutes walk from the Verandah Resort & Spa takes you to Long Bay beach. The white sand and turquoise water looks far better in real life than it does in the pictures below. Click here for Bloglovin’ link SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave
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Out and About in St John’s, Antigua
A taxi drive down to the western side of the island takes us to Antigua & Barbuda’s capital, St John’s. Lots of people, traffic, shops, colour and day to day hustle and bustle. Antigua and Barbuda’s first prime minister, Sir Vere Cornwall Click here for Bloglovin’ link
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Let Me Entertain You! Verandah Resort Antigua
Well you go to some hotels and get virtually no entertainment in the evening, but not at the Verandah! I was super impressed with the amount of effort the resort staff put into organising a fashion and talent show during my stay – they didn’t just organise the entertainment, they ‘were’ the entertainment. Hats off to the […]
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Hello Antigua
How nice to arrive to an empty airport with hardly any queues, and friendly immigration staff, before heading to some equally empty white sand beaches. The tag line ‘Antigua Nice’ really did fit the bill. The sun seemed to be blazing hotter than ever and as it happens, locals said it was was uncharacteristically hot that […]
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The Verandah Resort and Spa, Antigua
I think Antigua should be renamed ‘Butterfly Island’ because I have never been to a place where butterflies are swarming the air like confetti. I noticed this on the drive to the hotel and initially thought it was some sprinkling from nearby flower petals blowing in the breeze, but no – it was hundreds of […]
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Farewell Grenada, Next Stop: Antigua
All packed and ready to go. Upon leaving Grenada I was greeted with yet more rude staff at the LIAT check-in desk this time, I can’t even leave without another dose. Our driver had taken special care to bring our luggage into the airport and place it at the front of the queue to make […]
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Sail Away: Goodbye Carriacou
I was sad to leave Carriacou and would have liked to have spent longer there – I would definitely like to return for a dedicated holiday in the future. A peaceful, battery recharging holiday. Having flown to the island, sailing back to mainland Grenada by ferry was a welcome contrast. The sunsets along the way were […]
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Sandy Island
A tiny crescent island off the coast of mainland Carriacou, Grenada. An isolated island with a rustic charm. Uninhabited. The crabs featured at the end of the clip were quite something. There seemed to be hundreds of them all living under a big pile of old fallen coconut tree leaves. As soon as our […]
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Out and About in Carriacou
Grenada Blues
The Little Mermaid! Carriacou Hotel
Carry Me To Carriacou
Carriacou is one of Grenada’s sister Islands, and delightful contrast. The second largest of Grenada’s Tri-Islands and a refreshingly untouched, peaceful piece of paradise. As well as the SVG Air flight, it is also possible to sail via Osprey Ferry from Grenada’s capital, St George or book an organised tour. I had always vowed never […]
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Out and About: Grenada
Music: Aaron Duncan – Can You Feel It 2016 Soca Click here for Bloglovin’ link SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave
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Downtown: St George, Grenada
The bus ride into town: Vibrant Colourful Fishing boats Local produce Hustle & bustle Steep narrow streets Vendors on the side walk The waft of spices in the air Spices for sale on every corner Locals going about their daily chores Picturesque views from Fort George and around the marina St George, the capital […]
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Tutti Frutti Sunsation Tour: Grenada
A great day long tour, highly recommended. Concord Waterfall View of Carib’s Leap Lunch at the Belmont Estate River Antoine Rum Distillery (1785) Pearls Airport Grand Etang National Park & Crater Lake And of course the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station was also included in this tour : Spice Up Your Life: Grenada […]
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More Rudeness in Grenada: Deyna’s Tasty Foods Disgusting Customer Service
Deyna’s Tasty Foods Disgusting Customer Service followed on from an appalling Grenada airport welcome. We decided to eat like the locals and pop into a restaurant/cafe in the hustle and bustle of St George. Sample some local cuisine I thought, give some custom to local businesses (who you’d think would appreciate it more than your bigger more […]
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Spice up your life: Grenada Nutmeg Factory
The nutmeg aroma is fragrant throughout the tour, as you would expect. There is a very calm, peaceful atmosphere throughout as everyone gets to work. Courtesy of the Grenada Sunsation Tutti Frutti Tour. Click here for Bloglovin’ link
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Grenada: Coyaba Beach Resort Hotel, Grand Anse
A quiet hotel on Grand Anse beach. The staff are generally friendly and polite (with the exception of one housekeeping lady who beat on my hotel room door one evening, with such force and persistence I thought maybe the hotel was burning down or the police had some urgent matter to discuss with me) – but oh […]
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Welcome to Grenada! Rude Staff at Maurice Bishop International Airport.
After long flight, rude staff at Maurice Bishop International Airport is the last thing you need. Nobody expected to be greeted with the rude and hostile attitude of some ‘female’ immigration staff we encountered, and these women were and embarrassment to Grenada. What a welcome!! Perhaps these staff did not wish to encourage tourism into Grenada […]
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Black River Jamaica Safari Cruise: Crocodile Spotting in St Elizabeth
Crocodile spotting on one of Jamaica’s longest rivers, another popular tourist attraction for your Jamaica vacation.
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