What’s your Favourite Caribbean Hot Spot?

~ Words by Vickie Sam Paget, Sky Blue Content ~

We ask these industry movers and shakers to share their own personal slice of Caribbean heaven with us

HOT SPOT: Curaçao
HOT SPOTTER: Amr Younes, vice president of sales at Air Canada Vacations

“The fusion of the various cultures—over 50—has turned Curaçao into an unrivaled destination. It is strikingly different and this is why I love it. It not only has wonderful beaches, but its colourful European infrastructure, volcanic landscape and 65 dive sites make it so diverse. Being in Curaçao makes me happy because every aspect of it is welcoming. Its distinct people have contributed to its rich heritage; its flavourful cuisine encompasses its historical influences; and its laidback lifestyle make it an ideal vacation getaway. Its capital city, Willemstad, for example, is so lively. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of 18th century architecture. In the daytime you can stroll through its avenues and stop by one of its outdoor cafes, and at night you can enjoy its vibrant dancing and music. Curaçao really is one of the most fascinating places I have ever visited.”

HOT SPOT: BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
HOT SPOTTER: Lorna Griggs, marine innovation co-ordinator, G Adventures

“Without a doubt the British Virgin Islands. With remote white sand beaches, spectacular snorkelling and some of the quirkiest bars in the Caribbean, it’s hard not to love the BVIs. Excellent trade winds, calm seas and friendly locals make this a destination that should be at the top of every sailor’s list. I’m always happiest on a boat, especially when following in the footsteps of pirates by sailing off into the sunset on a yacht!”

 

HOT SPOT: Grand Bahama
HOT SPOTTER: David Wright, director of sales for Ontario and Atlantic Canada, Sunwing

“For a warm, sunny welcome just a three hour direct flight from Toronto, Freeport in Grand Bahama is hard to beat. Everything on this laidback, tiny island is close by, so your holiday at the all inclusive Memories Grand Bahama begins almost as you land. As well as taking in the white sand beaches, colourful nightlife and excellent scuba diving, visitors should take a trip out to the island’s ‘West End’, where you can watch the fisherman bring in their catch and savour the freshest conch salad you’ll ever taste. Delicious!”

 

HOT SPOT: Cuba
HOT SPOTTER: Sasha Andrews, industry sales, Exodus

“This is one country on the adventure travel circuit you’d be crazy to miss, especially as the clock of commercialism is ticking on Cuba—and the faded, time-warped naivety that has made it so special is not likely to last much longer. Cuba is one of my favourites because it provides a perfect blend of revolutionary history, irresistible salsa music, vintage cars, white sand Caribbean beaches and picture perfect colonial beauty.”

HOT SPOT: Jamaica
HOT SPOTTER: Katherine Chin, PR and digital media specialist, the Travel Corporation

“Beautiful beaches, friendly people and ackee and saltfish… my Caribbean hot spot is definitely Jamaica. Having strong roots with parents who were born and raised in Jamaica, this Caribbean hot spot is a place I love because it is magical, from its natural beauty to the people to the delicious food. Everything is always ‘ALL RIGHT’.”

HOT SPOT: Cuba
HOT SPOTTER: Michael Sadowski, PR and social media specialist, Intrepid Group

“When you think of Cuba most travellers thoughts immediately go to either white sand beaches or the colourful cars in Havana. But tucked away on the far eastern part of the island is Santiago de Cuba, one of the Caribbean’s true cultural gems. This vibrant town is filled with music, dance and afro-Cuban influences. You feel alive wandering the streets and you never have to go more than a few blocks without hearing the sounds of salsa or the pulse-pounding beat of the Cuban drums. You just can’t help but get roped into Cuba’s infectious spirit!”

 

HOT SPOT: Jamaica
HOT SPOTTER: Shannon Smith, business development manager for south western and northern Ontario, TravelBrands

“I love the sound of the steel drum bands when you get off the plane. Couple that with the tantalizing aromas of jerk chicken floating through the air and I immediately have a smile to my face. Every time I arrive on the island I feel like I am going home. The locals are so friendly and inviting and always willing to share their history, culture and island.  Everything is “irie” in Jamaica, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love Bob Marley?”

 

This feature first appeared in CT Magazine, a publication for Canadian Travel Agents
Image: Mike Sadowski of Intrepid Group in Cuba