The Caribbean is always a hugely popular winter destination for American travelers, but it seems that it will be even more trendy than usual this season.
And there are many reasons for that, not to mention that it’s not too far to travel, the weather is almost guaranteed to be great, and there’s a wide range of destinations to choose from.
Many of the Caribbean’s popular countries are experiencing growth in the number of overseas visitors received in the fourth quarter of 2023 when compared to figures from 2019 – that’s according to flight ticket data analyzed by data experts at ForwardKeys.
This positive trend also looks set to continue into January and February of 2024 – showcasing that the Caribbean is clearly the place to be.
And there are five island paradises in this region that are standing out ahead of the rest in terms of popularity – here they are:
Dominican Republic
It’s been a record-breaking year for tourism in the Dominican Republic, with that upward trend set to continue into the beginning of 2024.
One of the Caribbean’s longest white sand coastlines (30 miles) in Punta Cana may be reason enough for many American travelers to consider visiting in winter, but there are other appealing factors to the Dominican Republic.
You can get there easily, and for a relatively low airfare, thanks to how well connected the country is by affordable airlines from all over the United States.
It’s also a relatively safe place inside the major holiday resorts and tourist towns – just make sure you don’t drink the tap water.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The three major islands that make up the majority of the U.S. Virgin Islands have been drawing in tourists at record rates throughout the year.
And perhaps it should be no surprise – the island of St Croix is well-regarded for pristine beaches and idyllic golf resorts, St John is known for its natural beauty, with two-thirds of the island being a national park, and St Thomas is a hive of colorful culture and a place to learn about this region’s fascinating past.
Another key benefit of visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands is that American citizens are not required a visa or even a passport when arriving from the mainland or Puerto Rico.
Curacao
This southern Caribbean island is home to quiet coves, resplendent reefs, and one of the biggest and longest carnivals in the entire region.
The island is relatively remote, and besides boasting fantastic weather during the winter, it’s also a cultural melting pot with influences from Europe, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean combined into one.
Diving is one of the main attractions on this beautiful island, thanks to the healthy reefs surrounding it.
There are approximately 70 different dive sites in the vicinity for all levels of experience.
If you’re seeking a remote escape, hop on a two-hour boat ride to the tiny island of Klein Curacao, where you’ll find unspoiled white sands and even more fantastic diving opportunities.
Turks and Caicos Islands
Regarded as one of the world’s top island destinations by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler, Turks and Caicos is made up of some 40 islands that really have no other description than paradise.
With sparkling turquoise waters that defy description, the islands here are ideal for everything from lounging on the beach to heading out on diving or fishing excursions.
Winter temperatures here hang in the low 80s, and a constant cooling breeze keeps you from cooking. Crime rates are extremely low, and people are very friendly.
Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory with an overall population of just over 30,000.
Aruba
Visitor numbers to Aruba in the final quarter of 2023 are up 22% on the figures from 2019, showing just how popular it is becoming.
The island’s tourism industry is growing and evolving to match this increase in visitors, with several new hotels and resorts either under construction or recently opened.
So, what are all these visitors coming to see?
Besides the typical white beach and turquoise ocean combo, Aruba is also home to a fascinating colonial capital city, a thriving art scene, a rugged interior that can be explored on 4×4 adventure tours, and the famous Flamingo Beach.
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