The Caribbean has carved out a reputation as being almost paradisal – and with good reason. Idyllic islands, pristine beaches, a laidback vibe and a startling variety of cultures. Such a ‘bucket list’ destination can feel like the preserve of those with deep pockets. These islands carry hundreds of upmarket resorts that can burn a hole in even the largest budget.
But if you plan ahead, are willing to visit away from peak times and know where to go and what to do, a holiday to the Caribbean can be just as affordable as trips to less far-flung destinations.
Islands like St Kitts and Dominica have been less touched by tourism, leading to lower prices and more outdoor activities, while even in touristy places like Barbados or the Dominican Republic, the prices of everyday essentials, as well as tours and other adventures, are affordable if you’re willing to search around.
And with year-round flights, reaching these islands has never been easier. To help plan your trip, we’ve rounded up a selection of the most affordable islands in the region.
Dominica
The island of Dominica is estimated to be one of the youngest in the Caribbean – though still around 26 million years old
(Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Dominica is nicknamed the ‘Nature Island’, meaning visitors can expect a lot from this island’s natural beauty. Fortunately, it lives up to expectations thanks to striking waterfalls, dramatic mountains and volcanoes, thick rainforest and beaches, such as Toucari or Soufriere. What’s more, as the island is slightly more difficult to reach, it has been preserved from mass tourism and the effects that come with it. As such, many of the best things to do are either free or extremely affordable.
‘Must-do’ things include hiking to Boiling Lake, seeing Trafalgar Falls and Titou Gorge, taking a dip in the Emerald Pool and hiking part of the 124-mile Waitukubuli National Trail, all of which come at no cost. Other popular activities include snorkelling or scuba diving at Champagne Reef or Scotts Head, going on wildlife spotting tours and taking boat rides down the Indian River, all of which are reasonable and even more affordable than on other islands (think £12 for a river tour or £25 for snorkelling).
Food, drink and accommodation are usually even cheaper than most Caribbean destinations. Meals in more modest restaurants can…
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