Which Caribbean Islands Should You Visit this Winter?

Protravel International, which has signed on to the One Caribbean Family Ambassador campaign, surveyed its members for their tips on which islands to visit this winter.Protravel, a division of Travel Leaders Elite, is made up of luxury agencies that serve the VIP leisure, entertainment and corporate markets. Together with the Caribbean tourism industry, Protravel’s goal is to educate travelers in support of the Caribbean and help stabilize the regional economy.The One Caribbean Family campaign is aimed at supporting the islands that have remained open for business in the wake of this fall’s hurricanes, and jump-starting the recovery of those that have suffered.Protravel agents say clients can still experience unforgettable vacations not far from home. The areas they recommend include the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Nevis and St. Kitts, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Barbados and Canouan.MORE Destination & Tourism“Particularly for our East Coast clients, the Caribbean is a very popular vacation destination, in part due to the proximity for a long-weekend getaway, convenient flights, warm weather, and beautiful beaches,” said Gail Grimmett, Protravel International’s president.“We want to make sure travelers are aware that over 70 percent of the destinations in the Caribbean were not affected by the recent hurricanes and are open for business.”Here are the Protravel agents’ recommendations:The Bahamas – Eleuthera or Paradise Island“Harbour Island, Eleuthera, is my favorite quiet island with beautiful bright pink sand beaches along its eastern shore. Travelers can enjoy horseback riding on the beach, diving, boat charters to other small islands, and good food.” –Diane Beber, Protravel, Miami“Another great place in the Caribbean is the One&Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island in the Bahamas – it is completely renovated and simply beautiful.”–Ann St Hilaire, Protravel, New York, New YorkREAD MORE: Which Caribbean Islands Are Back in BusinessThe Dominican Republic“When visiting the Caribbean, my favorite resort is Tortuga Bay Resort & Club in the Dominican Republic, which just reopened on November 1 after a complete renovation. Its luxurious beachfront villas offer privacy and its oceanfront golf courses, breathtaking panoramic ocean views. In the Dominican Republic, resorts did not sustain hurricane damage and the area offers great activities for the entire family.”–Ann St HilaireSt. Kitts or Nevis“Both, St. Kitts and Nevis, are great destinations for a warm getaway in the fall or winter with the entire family or just your partner. Nevis is the smaller of the two islands and known for its old-style charm and beautiful beaches, but also for being very green. St. Kitts is great for active travelers who want to discover its rainforest mountains or for visitors who want to enjoy their time on the beaches of white, gray, and black sands. Opening in November, Park Hyatt St. Kitts is an ultra-luxury hotel in the heart of Banana Bay.” –Denise Bonnici, Protravel, New York, New YorkAntigua“Antigua has it all: sightseeing, museums, nightlife, water sports, wildlife adventures, and relaxation. I recommend a stay at Jumby Bay Island, Antigua, for the unique private island setting amid tropical foliage and pristine white beaches and the colorful starfish that come so close to shore. The resort is known for its fabulous villas with private pools and its exceptional food.” –Paula Rybacki, Protravel, Florida KeysSaint Lucia“Saint Lucia offers travelers a memorable high-end luxury experience and a variety of boutique accommodations. It’s the perfect island for adventurers and hiking enthusiasts with its tapered mountains, the Pitons, on its west coast; volcanic beaches, and trails leading through the rainforest to some of its magnificent waterfalls. An absolute must to be able to get around the island: a rental car.” –Elaine Pesky, Protravel, New York, New YorkREAD MORE: Caribbean Resorts Roll Out Cyber Week DealsBarbados“Travelers should consider a trip to Barbados, a cruise-ship port with colonial buildings; great beaches; botanical gardens, where they can enjoy afternoon tea; the national sport, cricket; or visit the Harrison’s Cave formation. Barbados is known for its white and pink sand beaches, laid-back atmosphere and touch of British gentility. For clients who desire to stay at a boutique hotel, the Colony Club is a great choice and provides wonderful ambience, fine food, service, and tennis courts.” –Loesken Vanderpoel, Protravel, ChicagoCanouan“The small Caribbean island of Canouan, belonging to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is a great vacation destination with its beautiful white beaches and calm waters just 20 minutes from Barbados. The island is small and the perfect place for a romantic getaway to relax and rejuvenate your senses. I recommend a stay at the Pink Sands Club, which is a romantic and glamorous luxury beach hotel with five-star dining and stunning ocean views.” –Frank Toth, Protravel, New York, New YorkFollow @RobinTvl