The Caribbean Beat team shares some cherished Caribbean experiences from our own bucket lists, and other perennial favourites that we recommend for yours!
Rally round the West Indies
Yes, always cricket — but also motorsports! Rally Barbados is one of the best rally races around, with top drivers tackling thrilling routes across the island’s stunning landscapes. Besides the intense racing action, you’ll get to experience Barbados’ vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality. Even if you’re just looking for a fun and exciting getaway, Rally Barbados offers an unforgettable mix of speed, adventure, and island vibes. And if you’re a fan of this growing sport — which is getting ever more popular each year — check out other smaller events in Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago too.
— Halcyon Salazar
The views from above
I’ve blessedly been to St Lucia a few times — enjoying round-the-island tours (onshore, and by catamaran); going whale-watching (something I do anywhere whales are, with Samaná in the Dominican Republic next!); slathering mud all over my skin at the “drive-in volcano” and sulphur springs in Soufriere; beach-bumming from coast to coast; and admiring the Pitons from every conceivable vantage point. But I’ve never truly experienced the island’s rainforest adventures, like the aerial tram ride, canopy zip-line course, and electric ATV or scooter tours (much quieter, more environmentally friendly, and less destructive than gas-powered ATVs). And honestly, I can’t wait!
— Caroline Taylor
Simple treasures
One of my fondest travel memories is standing barefoot in my family’s back yard in Grenada, eating freshly harvested lobster seasoned and steamed for breakfast. It was so good I can’t even recall the side dish! I treasure life’s simple pleasures, so St Vincent & the Grenadines — unspoilt, with a lifestyle that seems grounded, laid back, peaceful — is on my wish list, especially as the islands work to recover from last year’s hurricane. I’d love to laze on the beaches and sample fish exquisitely cooked in various styles — and possibly plated on a banana leaf. Heaven!
— Jacqueline Smith
Food, glorious food
As a foodie, I always look forward to the Barbados Food & Rum Festival and Jamaica Food & Drink. Both festivals feature rich culinary experiences, unmatched flavours, and award-winning chefs with compelling stories inspiring each dish. In fact, these islands were recognised at the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards in September (and Caribbean Beat was there!): Jamaica’s Stush in the Bush was ranked #49, and Barbados’ Buzo Osteria Italiana was voted the Best Restaurant in the Caribbean. It’s a testament to the extraordinary epicurean experiences on these islands — and why you should definitely pack some loose clothing!
— Shelly-Ann Inniss
Dizzying delights
With its beaches that seem to stretch endlessly, and the fascinating historic art deco architecture, there’s little wonder why Miami is on my bucket list. There’s no better time to start working out, then, so I can look the part while strolling along Miami’s iconic boardwalk and have the endurance to explore its many museums, gardens, and parks. However, with its diverse culinary selection, I’m going to have to hit pause on my diet. It’s going to be impossible to not sample many of the popular dishes.
— Kevon Webster
There she blows!
I’ve been a diver for years, and Dominica is one of those places that really calls to me. It’s one of the only countries (including Norway and New Zealand) where sperm whales can be sighted year-round. Juveniles and female family pods stay along the coast all 12 months of the year, while mature males come back between November and March to mate. Dominica’s sperm whales even have their own “dialect”! I’ve heard humpbacks while diving, but seeing sperm whales up close — slipping into the water, watching them glide beneath me — that’ll be my ultimate 2026 dive experience.
— Evelyn Chung
Mind the gaps
Travel itineraries are useful, but magic often happens in the gaps between planned activities. Like when, on a stroll down Cuba’s famous Malecón in Havana, I ended up in an impromptu salsa lesson after following a faded shingle sign hanging at the entrance to a long flight of wooden stairs. Or when our walking tour stopped at the Gran Teatro de la Habana and our guide discovered there were tickets still available for that evening’s performance. My companion, dressed in shorts, raced to a nearby shop for new trousers several sizes too small — and we still enjoyed the most exquisite evening of ballet. Make your bucket lists…but mind the gaps!
— Tracy Farrag