Best Times for Traveling to the Caribbean 

The most popular months for a trip to the Caribbean are December through April. These are the times when northern weather is chilliest and travelers are looking for some warmth! Although it may not be the most popular time to travel, you can get the best rates during late spring, summer, and early fall. So if it’s not a must to go in the winter, you’ll save some money, and your island destination won't be as busy with tourists.  

Getting There 

We’ve all got to pack… so here are a few tips to make it a more pleasant experience: 

·  Don’t fold – lay flat – To get the most room out of your suitcase, lay your clothes flat instead of folding them… this also helps prevent wrinkling.  Also, if you have to a pack a suit… try rolling it.

·  Stick to Your List – Make a list of all the items you need to bring and stick to that list! This way you won’t forget anything you do need or bring anything you don’t.

·   Less is More – When you’re going to the islands you don’t need much in the way of clothing. Most people find that they’re pretty much living in their bathing suits! Just make sure you pack only light weight comfortable clothing and depending on the time of year, a “just in case” sweater. 

·  Staying Dry – Packing a rain poncho is also a great idea. The islands have frequent heavy tropical showers, and you won’t want to get your clothes drenched, so keep one close by!

· Toiletries – There’s no doubt that a trip can be more comfortable when you’ve got all the right toiletries. Bringing your own toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, and soap ensures that you won’t have any surprise allergic reaction to hotel toiletries. Also don’t forget your razor, nail clippers, band aids, antibacterial cream, and some basic medications such as Tylenol and Pepto Bismol. Remember, if you require medications, never store them in your checked luggage… always keep them in your carry-on.

·  Comfortable Shoes - There’s little way to avoid doing some walking when you travel. Be sure to pack a few pairs of comfortable shoes, and don’t forget to bring some you don’t mind getting wet. If you’re planning on exploring the water you may want to consider a pair of water shoes as an added protection.  

·  Zip Lock Baggies – One of the best ways to prevent luggage leakage (no fun) is to put everything in zip lock baggies. The more the merrier… double bag everything and bring extra bags for the trip home! Bagging things can also help prevent sand from getting in unwanted places.

·  Photocopies - Bring photocopies of all your important travel documents like your id and passport. Keep these copies with you at all times when you are traveling and never ever put the photocopies in your checked baggage. Also leave a copy of your documents with someone you trust like a close friend or family member. If you do lose your documents, they can be faxed to you so you can board your plane.

· Time Saver - A big time-saver at the airport are the “id necklaces” which are available at most airports. These nifty inventions allow you to put your ticket and id’s around your neck in a see thru pouch. No more digging in suitcase zippers at each line!

·  Mark Your Bag – Yep, don’t forget… marking your bag with a unique ribbon or tape can save a lot of time and confusion when you’re looking for your bag. It also helps ensure that no one else will mistake your bag for their own.

·  Just in Case – Never get caught without clean underwear… always pack an extra outfit in your carry on bag just in case you bag gets delayed. When you’re traveling to the Islands… also pack a bathing suit in your carry on. There’s nothing worse than not being able to jump right in the water when arriving at your destination! 

On the Island 

Ocean Tips          

·  If you plan on enjoying any snorkeling, you will definitely want to pick up a bottle of mask anti-fogger. A few drops of this stuff in your mask ensures that it wont fog up on you while you’re snorkeling, which can be frustrating as well as dangerous.  If you find yourself without any drops, you can try spitting in your mask and rubbing it in… it doesn’t work as well as the drops, but definitely makes a difference.

·  Leave your jewelry in the hotel safe.  There are a few reasons you don’t want to bring your jewelry to the beach… One, because you don’t want to attract any theft to your party, and Two, because wearing jewelry in the water can attract barracuda. The shiny reflection of jewelry can confuse the fish, mistaking you for food!

·   Be cautious of undertows. If you are caught in an undertow, swim parallel to the shore. This should lead you out of the undertow and into a current that will likely bring you back to shore. Remember that panicking in an undertow is the worst thing you can do. Never let children swim in the ocean without direct parental supervision.

·  Always make sure any equipment you rent or purchase meets international safety requirements. Make sure you always test your mask and snorkel for fit and leaks in shallow water before entering any deeper water.

·  Never stand in the coral reefs. This is fore your protection, as to avoid things like stepping on sea urchins, and for the protection of the coral reef.

·  Never enter the water alone. An important part of water safety is having a partner or a group of people around you incase anything happens.  

Rainforest Hiking Tips 

·  Bring water. Make sure you have plenty of water when you are entering the rainforest and pack a few granola bars or something for energy.

·  Bring your rain poncho. Afternoon showers are frequent in the rainforest and wet clothes can ruin any adventure. Ponchos are light weight and easily folded, and will keep you prepared without weighing you down.

·  Stick to the Beaten Path. Never venture into rainforest that doesn’t have a well traveled path. There are many reasons it is safer to travel on a path that is regularly traveled. If you are injured for any reason it’s likely someone will come along shortly; there is less likely hood of poisonous vegetation along the path because this is usually removed on a well traveled path; and they can also be more fun as these trails often have neat signs along the way that point out things you may have otherwise missed.   

·  Getting Around. Driving in the Caribbean is something that only visitors who are seasoned defensive drivers should do. Most Caribbean Islands drive on the left, and for anyone used to driving on the right this can take some getting used to. The roads are also much narrower and windier than typical U.S. roads.  If you don’t want to drive, don’t worry. There are a lot of great methods of getting around in the Islands. There are plenty of taxis, and shuttles including a dollar taxi on some islands. Always ask around for the best deal before you pick your method of transportation. Another fun way to get around is by scooter. There are plenty of scooter rental places in the islands and they are a fun and economical way to tour the city. Don’t forget to always wear your helmet… It’s the law! The islands are also very strict when it comes to enforcing the manditory seat belt law... so buckle up! 

General Tips 

Cameras – Buying your film before you go on your trip will save you money. The markup on film can be pretty big when you get to a popular tourist destination. Also remember to keep your film and other devices out of the direct sunlight, which can cause damage.  

Water – When you’re in the Islands you'll want to drink bottled water. Remember even when you go out to eat you can order bottled water, and make sure they bring it to the table unopened so you can be sure it’s genuine.  

Cell Phone – Keep your cell phone in a zip lock bag, and change it each day. Sand and moisture can easily ruin your cell phone during your trip.