Caribbean - Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Grenada

Part 2 of my Caribbean highlights Bermuda Bermuda offers a unique and enchanting experience, blending British charm, stunning natural beauty, and a rich history. Bermuda is famous for its pink sand beaches, such as Horseshoe Bay and Elbow Beach. The pink hue comes from crushed coral and shells mixed with the sand, creating a beautiful and distinctive shoreline. The island also has a long maritime history, dating back to the early 17th century and is home to numerous historic sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. George’s, the Bermuda National Museum, Fort St. Catherine, and the Royal Naval Dockyard. It is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts as beyond the beaches, you can explore the island’s caves, such as Crystal and Fantasy Caves, hike along the scenic Bermuda Railway Trail, or play golf at one of the island’s world-class courses. Plus the waters surrounding Bermuda are incredibly clear, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. As Bermuda enjoys a mild, subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round the island is particularly appealing in Spring and Autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Bermuda is also famous for two iconic cocktails: the Dark 'n Stormy and the Rum Swizzle, both drinks are synonymous with the island my top tip don’t try and keep up with the locals stop at one!

Cayman Islands Miles and miles of pristine white sand beach lapped by warm turquoise waters, 365 dive sites waiting to be explored and a distinct brand of Caymanian hospitality that makes you feel right at home. The three islands of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac beckon you with their unique charms. Grand Cayman is the largest of the islands and is known for its cosmopolitan vibe and world famous Seven Mile Beach- regularly topping polls as one of the best in the world. Little Cayman has a population of less than 200 people, and at just ten miles long is just as peaceful as it sounds! Bask in the sense of being on your own private island or explore its underwater secrets at the Bloody Bay Wall- a world class dive site. Cayman Bay means adventure, from limestone caves and sinkholes to a 140 foot bluff and lush green forests, or just soaking in the tranquillity under the nearest swaying palm. From the smallest seafood shack serving up the day’s catch right on the beach to the most luxurious of five star restaurants, there is a culinary experience to suit every desire on the Cayman Islands. With a mix of local specialities, Caribbean delights and international cuisine, take your pick of quick bites to relaxed meals. If authentic cuisine is your thing, book an off-the-beaten track food tasting tour. A highlight of my last visit was a helicopter trip in Grand Cayman and is a must to truly appreciate the stunning hues of these pristine waters.

Dominican Republic This is the second largest and most diverse Caribbean country, situated just two hours south of Miami, less than four hours from New York and with direct flights from the UK it is a great option for a twin centre holiday . Known for the warm and hospitable people, Dominican Republic is a destination like no other, featuring astounding nature, intriguing history and rich culture. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, this lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles of coastline,and 250 miles of the world’s top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in the magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches. With a vast array of hotels to suit all tastes and budgets it truly has something for everyone. The capital Santo Domingo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Americas, founded by Bartholomew Columbus, Christopher Columbus's brother, in 1496. Santo Domingo is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and significant colonial architecture, including the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whenever you have seen Havana, Cuba in a Hollywood blockbuster I was actually filmed here.

Grenada is a tri-island state: Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, where the pace of life has a slower vibe. A time when food was created with love, care and attention and where the people you met took a moment to bestow a friendly wave or a smile. In Grenada, where beautiful beaches abound, you can see the River Antoine Rum Distillery where the 18th century water wheel still crushes the sugar cane. If you are staying in the south of the island a drive through the rainforest will bring you to the 17th century Belmont Estate to experience a tree to bar tour and see how they create their fine, organic chocolate. In the fishing village of Gouyave you can watch how each nutmeg is still graded by hand. It is this attention to detail that makes the islands so authentic. Grenada is the Spice of the Caribbean, but it could also be the Sailing or Festival Island, hosting the Grenada Sailing Festival each year as well as Independence Day celebrations, the Carriacou Maroon Music Festival, the fascinating Shakespeare Mas, This one of a kind cultural event has the Carriacou islanders dressing up in colourful costumes to compete in reciting lines from Shakespeare’s play and the Grenada Chocolate Festival! With its fragrant forests of cinnamon, cocoa and nutmeg, its collection of boutique, often family run accommodation, world-class beaches including Grand Anse and one recognised for having one of the prettiest harbours in the Caribbean in Grenada’s capital St. George. Grenada will take you on a journey like never before!