7-Day Caribbean Gems

Bridgetown, Barbados's compact and convivial capital, carries three centuries of uninterrupted British colonial heritage — a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgian townhouses, coral-stone churches, and the Garrison Savannah, whose racecourse is the oldest in the Western Hemisphere — all infused with the irresistible rhythms of a proud Caribbean nation. The island's culinary scene has matured into one of the Caribbean's most sophisticated, with flying fish cutter sandwiches from roadside stalls competing for devotion with the elegant seafood preparations of the Platinum Coast's celebrated restaurants. Visit December through May for the driest season; the island's sheltered west coast offers superlative year-round sailing conditions.

Saint Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis, delivers the Caribbean at its most authentic—stunning waters, vibrant culture, and cuisine that blends African, European, and indigenous traditions into something boldly distinctive. Don't miss the local food scene and the exceptional snorkeling. Best experienced December through April, during the dry season when skies are clearest and seas are calmest. Cruise lines including Cunard feature this port on their most compelling itineraries. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the port rewards exploration at every pace and in every direction.

Saint-Pierre, Martinique, was the "Paris of the West Indies" until Mont Pelée's catastrophic 1902 eruption destroyed the city in minutes — today its haunting ruins, volcanic museum, and rebuilt Creole quarter offer one of the Caribbean's most moving cultural experiences. Must-dos include hiking Mont Pelée, tasting rhum agricole at nearby distilleries, and sampling accras de morue at waterfront restaurants. The dry season from December through May provides optimal visiting conditions.

Roseau, the capital of Dominica, is a vibrant port city characterized by its colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Must-do experiences include savoring local delicacies like mountain chicken curry and visiting the bustling Roseau Market. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April, when the island showcases its natural beauty and festive spirit.

Dominica is the Caribbean's Nature Island, a volcanic wilderness of rainforest-covered peaks, the otherworldly Boiling Lake, year-round sperm whale watching, and the indigenous Kalinago community. Must-do experiences include hiking to the Boiling Lake, snorkelling the bubbling Champagne Reef, and tasting callaloo soup. November through June is driest, with February through April offering the most comfortable conditions for hiking.

Rodney Bay is Saint Lucia's premier resort and marina district on the island's northwest coast, combining golden Reduit Beach, a vibrant dining scene at the yacht marina, and easy access to the island's volcanic interior. Must-dos include swimming at Reduit Beach, tasting Creole lambi at the marina restaurants, and excursions to the Pitons and the Sulphur Springs drive-in volcano. Visit January through April for the driest weather and calmest Caribbean seas.

Bridgetown, Barbados's compact and convivial capital, carries three centuries of uninterrupted British colonial heritage — a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgian townhouses, coral-stone churches, and the Garrison Savannah, whose racecourse is the oldest in the Western Hemisphere — all infused with the irresistible rhythms of a proud Caribbean nation. The island's culinary scene has matured into one of the Caribbean's most sophisticated, with flying fish cutter sandwiches from roadside stalls competing for devotion with the elegant seafood preparations of the Platinum Coast's celebrated restaurants. Visit December through May for the driest season; the island's sheltered west coast offers superlative year-round sailing conditions.