Hailed as one of the world's coolest film festivals by Moviemaker Magazine in 2014 and one of the top ten unmissable events in the Caribbean by Culturetrip.com in 2015, the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival (TTFF) is back and running from the 15th to 29th September 2015. This year will mark the TTFF's tenth anniversary.

The new V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua & Barbuda

LIAT had the honour of the very first flight on Thursday and American Airlines was scheduled to have the first international flight on Monday 24th, however, those plans were delayed as a precaution to the threat of tropical storm Danny and arrangements have tentatively been made for tomorrow. 

The facility, which cost around $100 million to construct, is positioned to improve Antigua's position as one of the major regional trade hubs and many are hoping that the modernized airport would translate to a boost in visitors. 

View of the new V.C. Bird Airport in Antigua from the inside

The new V.C. Bird Airport is reportedly equipped with state-of-the-art processing facilities that makes it one of the most advanced airports in the Caribbean with the ability to handle 1,800 passengers at a time. The first class lounge is set to have a beautiful view of Maiden Island and Jumby Bay; two small islands under the state of Antigua. In addition, the airport is providing much improved retail space and food options. This is a vast improvement from the much smaller airport currently in use.

The older V.C. Bird International Airport

Caribbean travellers can now begin and end their trip to Antigua in a more efficient and comfortable setting.

It has been suggested that with further development of the sea port, the island may be able venture more heavily into cruise tourism where visitors would be able to fly into Antigua to begin their cruise or vice versa. 

This activity would bring welcomed attention to Antigua's hotel and hospitality industry.

As the far reaches of the world open up for curious travellers, so have the hidden corners of the Caribbean. Still, you're probably wondering how this interests you.

Well, we're going to give you a few reasons why the Caribbean is still one of the top holiday destinations in the world and give three tips on things people overlook that can make the most out of your next trip.

Tip #1: You're Not Columbus

You're unlikely to walk right out of your hotel room into some amazing adventure. Do some research into fun things for you to do during your stay and give adventure the opportunity to find you. 

So, before you end up subjecting yourself to a substandard experience, put your ideas of discovery and spontaneity on the back burner until you get to your destination and make sure you do some investigation and planning ahead of time.


Reason: The Caribbean can be a very understated place. There are a myriad of activities available on any chosen island that are not always well advertised for various reasons. Don't miss out on jetboarding in Nevis or surfing on the East Coast of Barbados because you didn't take the time to look up your options.

Tip #2: Budget like You're Ballin', Spend like Your Rent is Due

The currencies of Caribbean states are valued at less than the US dollar and the Pound. With the convergence rate in your favour, the smart traveller can make their travel dollars stretch a lot farther. 

Select where to stay and price your rental. Some small businesses will give you a great deal for good service on both counts. Then, make your approximations for food. A good per person average per diem is about US$ 40, which includes a simple breakfast, lunch and dinner. Everything left can be allotted for fun things to do, which can be planned beforehand. 

The trick is to over-budget if you can and eliminate the stress of worrying about running out of money.

Reason: You don't want to be on vacation and worrying about anything. There are so many cheap deals and options available in the Caribbean that you will find that by over-budgeting certain things allows for surplus to do other things such as purchase souvenirs, go on last minute excursions or a treat for someone special.

Tip #3: Maximize on Your Itinerary

The Caribbean has a few twin island states, island groups and islands with very close neighbors. This means you should go to St. Kitts and make a point to go to Nevis, see St. Vincent and the Grenadines, make sure to see both Trinidad and Tobago, etc. There are regional air carriers but most of these options also have a much cheaper public ferry service available. You can stay in Antigua but arrange day trips across to Barbuda or Montserrat. One trip. Three destinations. 

Reason: There is a thread of familiarity that connects all the islands in the Caribbean but every island is truly different. No need to shortchange your experience when island hopping is becoming more and more accessible to the Caribbean traveller.


These are just a few tips for making sure you get the most out of your Caribbean vacation. Look out for more. 

We are Caribbean people providing insight on the Caribbean for Caribbean travellers.

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We grow up being taught not to travel alone and to use 'the buddy system' for safety then as we get older suddenly the emphasis switches towards being independent. It's a natural part of society so why isn't the same premise applied to travel?

The simple answer is: fear of the unknown.

Besides the obvious benefit of lifelong memories, here are 8 reasons why you should travel alone at least once in your life.

1. Boosting your Self-Confidence

Being alone in anywhere can be daunting especially if it is somewhere you haven't been before however the mere fact that you are alone will force you to take control of your vacation. The experience of handling the planning, managing the execution and interacting with people teaches you how to be independent. Even if you get a few things wrong in the process, remember it's a part of learning.

2. Leaving your Comfort Zone

The old adage rings true. Comfort zones are beautiful but nothing grows there. Being alone on vacation means that if you want to get out and take part in various activities then you will have to do things you have probably never done with people you have just met. It may require a measure of open-mindedness but good vacation stories are not usually found poolside and you will become a lot better at handling anything unfamiliar that comes your way in the future.

3. Controlling your own Time

Don't you hate being on vacation and finding yourself cramped in an overstuffed vehicle sightseeing when you'd rather be jetskiing on the beach? Well, when you go it alone the only persons' schedule you may have to consider are that of the cleaning staff at your accommodations and the cooking staff in the restaurant. The world is your oyster. You can spend the day catching some rays or out and about. It's all up to you!

4. Absence of an Audience

We've all been out with a group of friends and felt too embarrassed to go on "that ride" or to wear "that outfit". The beauty of being alone means that you are free to take part in whatever you choose to without fear of ridicule or judgment. You're on vacation. It's a free pass to indulge in most things. Eat that odd dish or dance with reckless abandon just because you want to do it without getting the 'side eye' from your bestie.

5. Getting to Know Yourself

They say if you travel far enough you meet yourself. Having to make your own decision and deciding what you want to do can show you just what your hobbies and interests are. You get in touch with yourself in a way you may not be able to if you had been vacationing with a group.  The alone time with your own thoughts helps clear the clutter of our personal interactions and day to day obligations. You discover your strengths, weaknesses and possibly even new hobbies and interests.

6. Making New Friends

Though you are travelling alone you may not necessarily spend all your time in solitude. You'll inevitably interact with local persons or other travellers who may be doing the same activities as you and, chances are, other people you meet travelling alone are interesting people. These persons may become lifelong friends, personal contacts or even life partners. This one of the best things you can do to expand your place in the world.

7. Changing Your View of the World

It's impossible to go anywhere new and being unchanged in you view of the world after experiencing it. Every country is different in its atmosphere, philosophies, societal interactions, etc. By being alone you have the opportunity to process this experience in its purest form. Your perspective of the world is more your own than ever before.

8. Control of Your Vacation Memories

Being in control of your schedule means being in control of the documentation of your travels. You have the opportunity to stop and take a picture of that beautiful sunset without griping or input from anyone. Get all the souvenirs you want to when you want to from wherever or whomever you want to and be able to look back at them with pride.




Once you can be confident enough to push past your comfort zones and be in control then you will learn invaluable lessons, foster new relationships and create your own memories that will last a lifetime.

The Caribbean is one of the best vacation destinations in the world where you can feel safe travelling alone and experiencing something new. 

Crawl out of your shell and take part in the activities and festivities of the islands and your willingness to participate will be met with warm smiles and gentle encouragement.


Visit our website CaribbeanTraveller.com for eall the information you need to plan a fabulous Caribbean vacation. 

'The Greatest Destination on Earth'.

The excitement to experience the once 'forbidden' land of Cuba is building. 
According to the Cuba Journal, Canada has for a long time been Cuba's primary tourism source market but the island is reporting increased interest from European travellers.

Conan O'Brien enjoying a street party in Havana. compliments of TBS

In the first six months of 2015, Cuba received 86,639 German visitors, 81,286 form the United Kingdom and 74,969 visitors from France, which equate to 21.7%, 27.5% and 28.5% increases form the same period in 2014 respectively. Their staunch Canadian market also shows increased interest with a 13.2% increase in visitors. 

Cruise arrivals and interest in Cuba
have also been on the rise with more companies applying for licenses and permissions to dock in Havana.

Not to be left out, since the travel regulations to Cuba from the US have relaxed there has also been a surge in American travel tourism in Cuba. So much so that it has already sparked discussion about the possibility that Cuba's colonial charm may become tainted if the increased travellers also bring increased interest from commercial entities. 

Typical street in Cuba via codepink.org

With only 60,000 hotel rooms across Cuba, the rising numbers of travellers will eventually prompt a Cuba's tourism product to adapt. 

On August 15th, Warwick International Hotels, which already manages the Naviti Beach Club in Cuba's Varadero area, is expected to open The Warwick Cayo Santa Maria Cuba on the islet of Santa Maria. It will be an all-inclusive resort with 800 rooms. Many others are already expanding their accommodations in anticipation of more visitors.

One of Cuba's many postcard beautiful beaches

Hopefully, other Caribbean travel markets can capitalize on the huge publicity Cuba is currently receiving to boost their own visitor rates. 

For useful information regarding traveling the Caribbean, visit our website CaribbeanTraveller.com.

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It's the island that even some of the most seasoned travellers have never visited and even more don't even know it exists. 

Saba [Say-ba] is the smallest Dutch territory in the world and covers a mere 13 square kilometers, which is largely taken up by a potentially active volcano called Mount Scenery. 

Saba via oceanhomemag.com

Once seen, one can understand why the island is affectionately known as 'The Unspoiled Queen' as it can be best described as 'postcard Caribbean' for as the nickname suggests, unlike many of the more developed islands, Saba is a vision of traditional Caribbean vistas with a beauty that shows both above and below the waterline. 

Reasons to go? For the eco-tourism, hiking, scuba diving and distinct lack of commercialism. Perfect for nature lovers, honeymooners or any traveller looking for a truly remote definition of relaxation that's away from the noisy bustle that can come with more urbanized territories. The edges of Saba is mostly rocky cliffside so there are no beaches save for one small stretch of white sand. Saba is quiet but certainly not without a unique rhythm characteristic of Caribbean islands.

View from Queen's Garden Resort in Saba

The best time to visit to experience the height of activity would be during the high travel season between December-May where you can take in the Saba Day long weekend or book your trip during carnival time, which can fall in either July or August.

To get to the Caribbean's most forgotten island, the options are a 12 minute flight from St. Maarten or a 2 hour trip across on the ferry and though there is one road visitors are advised to leave the driving up to the locals as navigating can be tricky. 

Capital of Saba 'The Bottom'

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Grenada is primed for the final events of Spice Mas. Its annual festival similar to those in other Caribbean countries such as Barbados, St, Kitts & Nevis and Trinidad & Tobago. 

Queen of the Band costume from Spice Mas via grenadagrenadines.com

Spice Mas began with an official launch at the end of May and progressed with various parties and cultural events throughout June and July. Though not as popular as some of its counterparts there is no shortage of fun, colour and festivity.

Just a few days ago, they crowned this year's Groovy and Power Soca Monarchs in a very close competition but in the end Finber Andrews singing 'Short Pree' and Jalon Olive with 'Boyzie' fought their way to the win. Then there was Panorama where the sounds of steel pan took center stage.

Tonight is Dimanche Gras. The King & Queen costumes from each of the bans would be on display and the best male and female presentations would be chosen. 

Type of costume traditionally worn by the King or Queen of the Band for Dimanche Gras via jayblessed.com

Next, there is the two days of street parading and partying. J'Ouvert or Pageant Mas will be on from tomorrow night. Each parish in Grenada has its own brand of traditional mas such as the Short Knees, Vekon & Wild Indians but the Short Knee bands are most common. People dance in the streets from the villages to the town of St. George's. The next day the carnival continues in daylight hours with the Parade of the Bands. Modern costumes of colorful beads and accessories are worn to dance and play mas in the culmination of the Spice Mas festival.

Revellers enjoying Spice Mas J'ouvert in Grenada

Don't be fooled into thinking that a carnival is a carnival. Ask anyone who has travelled the isles and they will tell you that every Caribbean island has its own culture, music and approach to playing mas. 





By the way, experiencing carnival is only one of the many fun things about a trip to Grenada or any island in the Caribbean. Stay informed and travel with knowledge.



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On the west-central coast of Trinidad near Chaguanas there is a temple that stands as a testament to the powers of persistence and vision. The original temple was constructed in 1947 but was destroyed by the government. 

The architect, who was not deterred by opposition, murmurs of his madness or incarceration, Sewdass Sadhu was determined to erect a Hindu place of worship on the island and dedicated another 25 years of labor to rebuilding the temple now referred to as the Temple in the Sea at Waterloo. 

The Temple in the Sea at Waterloo during sunset photo from: destinationtnt.com

This time, the temple would be constructed in the sea to circumvent the need for permission from the government or any other party. He began by building up a small island by hand with large rocks, steel and concrete to build the foundation for the temple then he used cement for the structure. 

Sadhu's effort has inspired many stories about his tenacity, perseverance and strength of character, which is reflected in the extravagant design of the temple itself considering it was the faith work of a single man. He built an entire prayer complex with three mandirs and the entire building is enclosed with a wrap-around verandah.

After Sadhu's death in 1970, the temple's upkeep was in limbo and wave action caused extensive erosion damage to the structure. For awhile, Sadhu's dreams seemed to be falling into the sea but in 1994 the Trinidad & Tobago government decided to restore his work to former glory as part of their 150th anniversary celebration of the coming of East Indians to Trinidad. 

Memorial plaque erected in honour of Sewdass Sadhu after the Waterloo Temple was renovated

Now, a statue in honour of Sadhu watches over the temple and local Hindus continue to use the Waterloo Temple for religious ceremonies and special events.  It is now a major landmark and eye-catching wonder for visitors to Trinidad and Tobago. The Waterloo Temple can be reached via car or taxi and, depending on the distance you're willing to travel, can easily fit into the vacation plans for persons staying in or around Chaguanas, San Fernando or Port of Spain.

An Aerial view of the Waterloo Temple, Trinidad

Please note: footwear will not be allowed inside the temple.



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Trip Advisor's Traveller Awards for 2015 has crowned Providenciales, Turks & Caicos, as the 'Best Island in the Caribbean'. 




Providenciales is more commonly referred to as "Provo". The small isle is the most developed island in the group but covers only 38 sq. miles. 

Map of the Turks and Caicos island group

It's well known for diving and snorkeling activities due to the long stretch of coral reef and crystal blue waters, any traveller with a love for sand, sun and seawater would be in heaven. More terrestrial travellers can enjoy exploring the historical sites around the island or possibly taking advantage of their world class golf course. It is one of the more expensive destinations in the Caribbean but it's definitely worth every penny.

Live conch from the Conch Farm in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

The runners-up for this award are: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, and Barbados respectively.

For the full list click here.

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Having a great vacation anywhere begins with one thing: a plan.

To Do #1: Pick an island.

View overlooking the peninsula and Nevis from Timothy Hill, St. Kitts

Though we recommend taking advantage of the many ferry services available to traverse the two islands, it may not be possible for every traveller. Though the islands are so close the atmosphere on each has its own uniqueness. Nevis is generally a lot more low key than her bigger sister. 

To Do #2: Decide whether this is a trip to maximize experience or comfort.

View from one of the luxury villas at Kittitian Hill photo from: prevuemeetings.com

While there are luxury accommodations in St Kitts and in Nevis there are also many options on the affordable scale for those who just need a comfortable spot to lay their heads. Kittian Hill tops our chart for the high end lodgings in St. Kitts but charming Seaview Inn is our recommended spot for close access to amenities, affordable prices, proximity to the capital and cosy rooms. 
Nevis is an island that prides itself on the very laid back and natural atmosphere. 

Oualie Beach Hotel is conveniently located in Oualie Bay, which is the landing point for many water taxis, and is a 'green' hotel with well-appointed rooms. A quick trip across 'The Narrows' with will bring you directly to the hotel and reduce some of the hassle that can come with utilizing the public ferry service for St. Kitts & Nevis.

To Do #3: Arrange your ride from the airport beforehand.

Islander Watersports docked at Reggae Beach in St Kitts awaiting scheduled passengers.

Some accommodations don't offer airport shuttles as part of their services but there are many good taxi operators, such as Island Paradise Tours and Seamoss taxi services, that will meet you upon arrival and, if you're heading across to Nevis, then we recommend Islander Watersports who do an amazing job of arranging the entire airport transfer from pick up at Robert L. Bradshaw Airport to Nevis (which eliminates the hassle of taking the ferry with all your luggage). 

If you're staying in St Kitts and getting a rental, whether with Thrifty or any of the other companies, be sure to ask whether your vehicle can be waiting for you at the airport.

To Do #4: Look up 'must do' activities.

Ashe Otto performing at the Nevis Blues Festival

We recommend getting a taste of both islands.Though neither island is known for being a hive of activity for most of the year but there is so much to experience year round that a visit at any time can be more than enough of an experience. Take a tour around St. Kitts, see the historical Brimstone Hill Fortress, make time for a cold beer and a beach chair on The Strip. 

If you can, take a scenic ride across to Nevis and rent car to take a scenic drive around the island. Make a stop by Old Cottle Church, walk around Charlestown and see the line of flags along the pier on Main Street. For a more festive time, St. Kitts hosts annual festivals and the Nevis Blues Festival is becoming increasingly popular.




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