Choosing the type of vacation you’ll go on is all about matching your vibe. Are you an adventurous spirit or a quiet soul? A culinary connoisseur or an art enthusiast?
Whatever your travel interests are, there is a Caribbean island for you with a variety of experiences well suited to match your personal vacation style. Royal Caribbean cruises are a seamless way to not only get to these spots but also visit a number of them in one trip. Each destination can offer up a different adventure daily, whether shopping till you drop or getting your heart pounding on a zip line.
Here is your guide to the Caribbean experiences for every personality:
Aruba is famous for its pristine, white-sand beaches.
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Beach Bum – Oranjestad, Aruba
The Dutch-influenced island destination is a beachgoer’s dream, with plenty of space to spread out and relax on the white-sand beaches and soak up the sun’s rays. The clear blue water is a stone’s throw away when it’s time to cool off, and it’s teeming with marine life you can see up close on a little midday underwater adventure. While Aruba has much to offer beyond its top-rated beaches, it is here where your senses come alive.
A second opinion: If the ocean really drives your heart wild, take a trip to Bonaire in the Dutch Antilles, best known for its snorkeling and diving adventures.
St. Thomas is the ultimate duty-free shopping destination in the Caribbean.
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The Shopper – Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
St. Thomas is just as much a home to underwater treasure as it is to some of the best shopping the Caribbean has to offer. Where “duty free” is the name of the game, the island’s capital, Charlotte Amalie, is brimming with bauble-filled boutiques, art galleries and open-air markets. Bargain at Market Square for locally made keepsakes and fresh produce or walk along the waterfront at Yacht Haven Grande where you’ll find upscale shopping featuring brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
Jerk chicken is a must-try when visiting Jamaica.
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The Foodie – Falmouth, Jamaica
Jamaica is a culinary paradise. Local dishes are packed with flavor, from popular, intensely spiced jerk chicken to sweet black cake (think the island’s version of a fruitcake) served best with another island staple—Blue Mountain Coffee. You can put your taste buds to the test by seeking out each of these nine must-try Jamaican foods, including classics like ackee and saltfish.
A second opinion: For even more exceptional island flavors, you can also head to Puerto Rico. There are classic dishes like mofongo, which combines fried plantains, creamy broth and chicken, beef or octopus.
The view of the Pitons will leave you breathless if the hike doesn’t first.
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The Explorer – Castries, St. Lucia
Two ancient volcanic spires, named Le Gros Piton and Le Petit Piton, anchor St. Lucia’s landscape. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pitons are a prime hiking destination that stand at more than 2,400 feet and welcome adventurers year-round. Beyond these twin peaks, you’ll find acres of unspoiled rainforests and palm-fringed beaches. Be sure to pack your camera to capture views you won’t want to forget.
A second opinion: In Dominica, you can check out volcanic peaks, bubbling waters and underwater springs. Adventure awaits!
Labadee is home to the world’s longest zip line over water.
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Thrill Seeker – Labadee, Haiti
Labadee is an adrenaline rush from the moment you set foot on the private destination. It is home to the world’s longest zip line over water, aka Dragon’s Breath Flight Line. Brave travelers can launch themselves (safely and securely) from one end of the island to the next. Once back on solid ground, it’s off to the next adventure, whether it’s climbing the only “icebergs” in the Caribbean at Arawak Aqua Park or coasting down the mountainside at 30 miles per hour on Dragon’s Tail Coaster.
A second opinion: If you want to explore depths instead of heights, try Belize to dive the Great Blue Hole or even tube through a narrow passageway in a cave.
Come across your type of vacation? Head here to start discovering more about these destinations and how to get there with Royal Caribbean.
