Getting to the Caribbean islands is easy if you know how to find cheap flights. Several low-cost airlines operate out of most Caribbean countries. A week on the beach is an excellent mental health treatment, and the tan is priceless. Getting a tan is also affordable.
Isla Colon
Isla Colon is one of Panama’s most popular tourist destinations. You can enjoy a wide range of activities on the island, from relaxing on the beach to going out to eat. The island is also known for its lively nightlife. You can get around on foot or rent a bike to explore the island.
If you’re a budget traveler, you may wonder where to start. One of the cheapest places in the Caribbean is Isla Colon, an island near the Dominican Republic. The island’s central area is Bocas Town, where most visitors stay. You can live comfortably on the island for less than US$2,000 per month.
The island has a low cost of living, making it an excellent place for a retirement or an investment. In the last five to 10 years, the island’s property values have increased dramatically. In the early 2000s, a titled beachfront lot cost just $3,000 – now, it’s worth $300,000.
St. Lucia
Although technically on the hurricane belt, Saint Lucia experiences fewer storms than the neighboring Bahamas. However, its wet season is more intense, and it is more humid. Visiting Saint Lucia during the off-peak seasons will save you money, but you must be aware of the climate. The island experiences higher rainfall than the neighboring islands of Barbados.
Many tourists come to St. Lucia as a stopover during a cruise. These visitors can explore Castries and nearby towns. The island also boasts a duty-free mall at Point Seraphine. Here, you can shop for typical cruise souvenirs. In addition, resorts and strip malls offer items at cheaper prices.
Martinique
Martinique’s economy mainly depends on the banana, sugarcane, and light industry sectors, with tourism making up around 10% of its GDP. Sugar cane production has decreased recently, while bananas are exported to France. Because Martinique was part of France, many French customs and habits are still preserved.
Martinique has a mix of sandy beaches, forested mountains, and colorful villages. The French influence is evident, and there’s no shortage of things to do on this beautiful island. Visitors can walk through the Jardin de Balata, tour cathedrals, and hike to waterfalls. Recently, European discount airlines began flying directly to Martinique, which has become a popular vacation destination. Norwegian, for example, flies nonstop to Martinique from New York and Fort Lauderdale.
Martinique has a relatively low cost of living compared to other Caribbean islands. Because of its French roots, you can dine on croissants and spicy Creole food in any of the island’s restaurants. Martinique also offers the opportunity to practice your French language. The island’s capital, Fort-de-France, retains its French colonial charm. In addition, the island’s coastline is covered in protected parkland, and underwater caverns are an attractive attraction.
Trinidad and Tobago
While the Caribbean islands can be expensive, finding some great deals is possible if you know where to look. Using a backpacker’s budget and volunteering opportunities can help you enjoy the islands on a tight budget. You’ll be able to see beautiful beaches and enjoy free activities while staying in a tropical paradise.
You can also save a lot of money by staying at a budget hotel. Many local hotels happily accommodate families, and some even offer babysitting services. Though some of the beaches in Trinidad and Tobago are rocky, they are surprisingly safe for children to visit. For example, the beaches in Macqueripe and Store Bay are exceptionally safe.
Regarding airfare, Trinidad and Tobago is one of the most affordable islands in the region. Direct flights from New York to Trinidad cost just $363. Flights from Chicago to the island require a layover in Miami. Alternatively, you can save money by flying from Washington, D.C., or Chicago to Trinidad. You can even fly to Trinidad for under $400 with a stopover in Miami. While you’re in town, make sure to visit Carnival in February. This island-wide celebration includes masqueraders, steel-pan band competitions, and late-night dancing to soca music.
Barbados
There are many reasons to visit Barbados, including its comparatively low cost. The island has a long colonial history, and its culture is based on sugar cane plantations. The island is also a popular cruise port. The island’s bus and minivan networks are excellent, and all vehicles have signs to guide you to your desired destination.
One of the best ways to spend your money in Barbados is to eat local food. Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast to their guests, and a sandwich at a cafe or Superfoods will only set you back a couple of dollars. In contrast, a sandwich at a mid-range restaurant in the British Virgin Islands will cost you $10 to USD 15. You can also buy fresh fruit and vegetables for as little as $1. In addition, there are several restaurants where you can enjoy a quick meal for as little as $8-10 USD. Pat’s Place is an excellent choice to try local cuisine.