The hotel industry in the Caribbean has been booming, with new hotels coming on the scene every week. Not only are new hotels being built in tourist hot spots like Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, but developers are also building in smaller islands like Dominican and St. Martin. 

Here are 15 Caribbean hotels that are either newly opened or will be opened in 2020.

Eclipse at Half Moon – Jamaica

The opening of Eclipse at Half Moon is the most exciting hotel opening in recent years and will be located in Montego Bay. There will be 57 rooms and located on the coast. 

The hotel will be opened on March 1st, 2020. 

Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla – Mexico 

Mexico has been seeing an abundance of new hotels popping up but Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla will bring something different to the table. The hotel will have a co-working space, rooftop pool and will be in close proximity to prime shopping in Cancun. 

The Morgan – St. Maarten

This luxury hotel will have 124 rooms and suites, a rooftop deck, an infinity pool and access to Maho and Simpson Bay beaches. 

The Morgan will start taking reservations in February. 

Planet Hollywood Cancun – Mexico 

Another opening in Cancun, Planet Hollywood will be making its debut this spring. There will be 648 rooms and the decor is inspired by movies. 

Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda – Dominican Republic

This location is the first-ever Exclusive Collection hotel by Club Med to open in the Caribbean. 

Located in the serene area of Miches, the hotel has 335 rooms and opened last month. 

Radisson Aruba – Aruba

Radisson left Aruba four years ago but is now making a comeback this year. The hotel will have 208 suites, ranging in size from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet. 

Noni Beach, a St Thomas Resort – St. Thomas

This hotel will be opening in late 2020 but is the most anticipated opening on the island in years. Noni Beach will be a boutique hotel will 94 rooms. 

Paradisus Playa Mujeres – Mexico 

Opening this summer in Cancun is this mega hotel with 498 rooms, 10 dining areas, a fitness center, and a spa. 

Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana – Dominican Republic 

This Punta Cana resort will have 500 suites and a water park located in the Macao area of the city. The hotel will have an emphasis on being family-friendly and all-inclusive. 

Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau – The Bahamas

The Margaritaville Beach Resort is set to be a major addition to Nassau and will be opening this year. 

Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski – Dominica

Dominica’s brand new luxury hotel opened at the end of 2019, drawing more interest to this under-the-radar island. The hotel has 151 rooms and is located near Cabrits National Park. 

Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf – St. Barth

Opening in the first quarter of 2020 is the highly anticipated luxurious Hotel Barriere. The hotel will have 23 rooms in the heart of St Barth. 

Hammock Cove – Antigua

The recently opened Hammock Cove is a boutique all-inclusive, with all the rooms having their own private plunge pools. 

Secrets – St. Martin

Opening in the first quarter of 2020 is this all-inclusive hotel with 258 rooms and located on Anse Marcel. It is the first brand-new resort to open in Saint Martin and is anticipated to increase tourism to the island. 

Alaia Belize – Belize

Alaia will be opening towards the latter part of 2020 and will have a spa, art gallery, rooftop pool, and dive shop. 

With a new decade approaching, vacations in the Caribbean aren’t slowing down. In fact, accommodations in the Caribbean are improving their properties and becoming more luxurious. 

Next year will be the year of luxury Caribbean resorts. We’ve rounded up a list of the 10 hottest luxury Caribbean resorts for 2020. Although each has different elements of luxury, they share a common goal of catering to their guests. 

Cabarets Resort and Spa Kempinski Dominica

This resort is brand-spanking-new and the first real resort on the island. Housing 151-rooms, this property boasts plunge-pool suites which either overlook the ocean or lush green mountain. 

Eden Roc Cap Cana – Dominican Republic

This property has 62 suites, amazing restaurant options, and exceptional service. You can choose from pool suites or rooms with a beachfront view. You may also spot celebrities, as it’s a popular spot amongst socialites and the “who’s who”. 

Rosewood Little Dix Bay – Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

This property was known as a premier resort for those staying in the Virgin Islands. Unfortunately, the property was damaged from a hurricane but the resort is re-opening in January 2020. When opened, there will be 80 brand-new guest rooms, suites, and villas — perfect for a luxury Caribbean vacation. 

Eden Rock – St Barths

Conveniently located on St Jean beach is Eden Rock, offering beautiful suites and plenty of culinary options. 

Park Hyatt – St Kitts

Park Hyatt is the flagship resort of St Kitts and is the first Caribbean resort in the Park Hyatt brand. 

Silversands – Grenada

This new luxury resort has 52 rooms and is set on the popular Grand Anse Beach. The other amazing part of this property is its 330-foot-long pool. 

Shore Club – Turks and Caicos

This property is still fairly new to Turks and Caicos but has certainly set the standard for great resorts in the area. The guest rooms are luxurious and the service is unmatched. 

Eclipse at Half Moon – Jamaica

Half Moon is a popular Jamaican resort but will be adding a new resort in March 2020. Eclipse at Half Moon will have 57 rooms, an infinity pool, two restaurants, and a beautiful white-sand beach. It is sure to be an iconic luxury property. 

Baoase Luxury Resort – Curacao

Located on a private beach, this property will remind you of vacationing in Bali. Not only are the rooms breathtaking, but the food offered is also absolutely delicious. 

Curtain Bluff – Antigua

A celebrity favorite, this area is the perfect place for a luxury Caribbean getaway. 

The recent crowning of Miss World 2019 has served as a historic moment. For the first time in pageant history, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss America, Miss Universe, and Miss World have crowned black women as their winners. 

Jamaica’s Toni-Ann Singh, who was recently named Miss World, joins this year’s cohort of women defying conventional beauty standards: Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi from South Africa, Miss America Nia Franklin, Miss USA Cheslie Kryst and Miss Teen USA 2019 Kaleigh Garris.

RELATED: Miss South Africa Is Proof The Most Beautiful Women In The Universe Are Black

While everyone is celebrating this momentous time, there’s another group of winners hailing from Nigeria that deserve to be recognized for their unwavering support.

When Zozi was crowned Miss Universe, the reaction of Miss Nigeria, Olutosin Araromi, had social media stanning.

While the other contestants flooded Zozi with congratulatory hugs,  Olutosin, who was behind the crowd, was seen moving everyone out the way to get to Zozi and congratulate her.

Miss World 2019

Three women gathered on the stage waiting to find out who would be crowned Miss World:  Miss Brazil, Elis Coelho; Miss Nigeria, Nyekachi Douglas, and Miss Jamaica, Toni-Ann Singh.

When Singh was announced the winner,  Douglas immediately jumped for joy to celebrate her victory.  The three then joined together in one big group hug.

Social Media Weighs In

The love and support from Araromi and Douglas have captured the hearts of so many people on social media.

“Miss Nigeria Universe and Miss Nigeria World are EXACTLY the friends every woman needs in their corner. WHEN YOUR PEOPLE WIN, YOU WIN,” said Twitter user gillie_cee.

“In 2020 when your friend starts a new business, podcast, therapy, anything that enhances their life. Be her Miss Nigeria,” one Twitter user said referring to Douglass. 

Both Araromi and Douglas are proof that we all need friends like them in our corner.

The colder it gets, the more a Caribbean vacation sounds like a great idea. After booking a flight, the next thing to do is find accommodations. Caribbean islands have lots of beautiful hotels to choose from but you deserve to stay at the cream of the crop!

Forbes Travel Guide has recently curated a list of the best hotels in the Caribbean and these properties are absolute perfection. 

Here are 30 Caribbean hotels you must visit on your next vacation:

Belmond Cap Juluca – Anguilla

This beautiful property has a green-tiled Moroccan pool and a color palette of white, gray and blue. The best part is it’s located near the gorgeous turquoise waters of Maundays Bay in Anguilla. 

Belmond La Samanna – St. Martin

This Mediterranean-inspired hotel will be reopening at the end of this month and will be sporting a new fresh look with a turquoise and white color palette. The hotel’s location is along the white sands of Baie Longue, making it the perfect vacation accommodation. 

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel – Puerto Rico

Located in San Juan, this hotel recently turned 100. Although the property has been around for a century, it is modern and comes with a heated infinity pool and a Four-Star spa with a gray marble hammam. 

Casa de campo Resort & Villas – Dominican Republic

This hotel is praised for its top-of-the-line golf course but it also offers a shooting range and fine dining. 

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Puerto Rico

This Five-Star hotel is located in Puerto Rico and comes with a Five-Star spa for pure bliss. My favorite perk of this hotel is being able to have a floating breakfast delivered while in the pool.

Eden Roc Cap Cana – Dominican Republic

Head to the Dominican Republic for a stay at this Four-Star property which comes with a private beach club, newly-renovated spa and golf course. 

Elbow Beach – Bermuda

This is the perfect hotel for a baecation. You can enjoy a Couple’s Retreat Massage with your partner and end the night with a private beach dinner. 

Eden Rock – St. Barths

This is the first hotel on St. Barths and a favorite amongst celebrities. The property has been going through a two-year renovation because of the damage from Hurricane Irma but will be reopened on November 20th. 

Fairmont Royal Pavilion – Barbados

Located on the Platinum Coast of Barbados, this hotel is only a short walk from the white sand beach. The rooms are decorated with artwork from local artists and the open-air dining rooms are perfect for watching the sunset. 

Grace Bay Club – Turks and Caicos

Located along Grace Bay Beach, this property has three pools and the longest bar in the Caribbean. Refresh your tastebuds with an Infiniti Martini (a mix of Hypnotiq, Malibu Rum, and pineapple juice). 

Half Moon – Jamaica

Head to Montego Bay for a stay at this beautiful hotel which is turning 65 years old this year! You’ll be able to partake int he weekly manager’s cocktail party, head to the equestrian center or listen to live reggae music at Cedar Bay. 

Jade Mountain Resort – St. Lucia

This resort is super dope because the fourth wall in the suites are removed, bringing you closer to the Caribbean Sea. The property also has a Chocolate Laboratory where you can taste chocolate made on the estate. 

Jumby Bay Island – Antigua

Located just two miles off the coast of Antigua is the beautiful private island of Jumby Bay. The property contains 300-acres with villas, pools, tennis courts, a farm, a spa, and beaches.

JW Marriott Santo Domingo – Dominican Republic

This Caribbean hotel is located near Blue Mall where you can shop till’ you drop then head to the infinity pool for relaxation. Head to the Vertigo 101 Lounge & Bar, perfect for an epic view of the street from 101 feet above. 

Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa – Grand Cayman

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the dining experience at Avecita where you can enjoy a curated chef’s table. You’ll also have the choice of pampering at the spa or simply relaxing on the beach. 

Le Sereno – St. Barths 

Minimalists will absolutely love this location because of its white-washed rooms and open-air Mediterranean restaurant. You can spend time relaxing in the spa which has the only beachfront treatment room on the island. 

Ladera Resort – St. Lucia 

The highlight of this property is being able to stay in a room with a swing hanging over the pool — talk about a vibe! Also, the decor is filled with furniture made by local artisans. 

Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour – St. Kitts

Located on Banana Bay, you’ll be able to rent watersports equipment for free. Or perhaps dine in an open-air restaurant while sipping on rum. 

Rosewood Bermuda – Bermuda

This beautiful boutique hotel has 88-rooms and was recently renovated last year. The decor is inspired by local artists and is located on Bermuda’s longest private beach.

Round Hill Hotel and Villas – Jamaica

experience complete relaxation at the spa on this property which is located inside of an 18th-century plantain house. This Montego Bay hotel has been popular amongst celebrities and travelers for the past 70 years. 

Sandy Lane Hotel – Barbados

This Five-Star hotel has been one of the most loved properties in the area for over 50 years! This hotel includes a 47,000-square-foot spa, tennis, swimming with turtles and even a Rolls-Royce house car.

Seven Stars Resort & Spa – Turks and Caicos

Staying at this hotel means complimentary kayaking or paddleboarding at Grace Bay. You’ll also be able to relax on the only heated saltwater pool on the island.

Silversands – Grenada

Travel to this serene destination on “the spice island” where you’ll be amongst the scenic jungles on the island. You’ll be able to chill in the longest infinity pool in the Caribbean, coming in at 330-feet. 

The Cove At Atlantis – Bahamas

Hurricane Dorian tragically hit the Bahamas in September but most of Nassau was not damaged. Tourism has been on a decline because of it but businesses are working to get the island back to where it once was with tourism. This property has amazing restaurants, wonderfully designed rooms, and an adults-only pool. 

The Ritz-Carlton – Aruba

Enjoy an onsite casino, amazing restaurants, and beach activities at this beautiful property in Aruba. 

The Ritz-Carlton – Grand Cayman

This property always has activities such as the Cayman Rejuvenate wellness event in November and Cayman Cookout food fest in January. You can also relax on Seven Mile Beach all year ‘round.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort – Puerto Rico

Located in the foothills of El Yunque National Forest is this beautiful hotel. You can spend time at the spa, on a bird-watching tour or just simply relaxing on the beach. 

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort – Bahamas

Enjoy the world-class spa, serene beach and golf course on this stunning property. 

The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort and Spa – Cayman Islands

This property was recently renovated in 2017 and has over 300 rooms in close proximity to the ocean. The property also offers a boat to take you out to Stingray City. 

Wymara Resort and Villas – Turks and Caicos

Enjoy the white sands at Grace Bay Beach or the infinity pool while enjoying your beautiful surroundings. The property offers an alfresco boot camp class as well as a spa and outdoor showers. 

When staying at resorts, free WiFi and an open bar can feel like the ultimate perks. During my trip to the Dominican Republic a few summers ago, I was in heaven after receiving welcome cocktails and heading to the beach while scrolling my timeline courtesy of the free internet.

However, resorts are aspiring to give travelers so much more. They want to step their game up, providing us with the free perks we really deserve. 

These Caribbean resorts are currently going all out for their travelers — from cooking classes to garden tours; you’re sure to get your money worth with these free perks.

Grenada

Spice Island Beach Resort is an all-inclusive resort located on Grand Anse Beach in Grenada. This family-owned resort has earned AAA Five Diamonds. 

The free perks here include bike riding, tennis, garden tours, scuba diving, sailing, and cooking classes. 

End your evenings with traditional afternoon tea, served every day free of charge. 

If you and your bae and vacationing on your honeymoon, you can expect a sunset cruise, a bottle of champagne, and a massage at the spa when booking a seven-night stay. 

Aruba

Divi Aruba and Tamarijn Aruba are both located on Druif Beach and have a combined total of 500 rooms close to the capital city of Oranjestad. Guests are allowed to venture between both properties.

Perks of these all-inclusive resorts include a 30-foot rock climbing wall, windsurfing, bike riding, tennis, and kayaking. 

You can also take salsa lessons, in-house reggae concerts and take in Cuban dance performances and steel pan bands.

Jamaica

Sunset at the Palms is perfect for those who crave nature and serenity. Located in Negril, this resort was recognized in the TripAdvisor 2019 Travelers’ Choice awards. 

Stay at this all-inclusive resort and you can expect to stay in one of the 85 treehouse-style suites located on the property. 

Perks include mixology lessons, cooking classes, and even a meet and greet with goats living on the resort!

The Bahamas

Although the Bahamas was recently hit with Hurricane Dorian, they are still open for business and the Warwick Paradise Island — Bahamas aims to please their guests. 

Perks at this adults-only all-inclusive include nature walks to feed turtles, yoga, picnics on Cabbage Beach and beach bikes.

Saint Lucia

Located on the south coast, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is the only family-friendly resort on this side of the island and is located extremely close to the Hewanorra International Airport. 

Airport shuttles to and from the airport are completely free, which makes it easy for those traveling with children or large groups.

Perks include tastings at the Sugar Cane Rum Bar, yoga, reggae dance classes, snorkeling, kayaking, water polo, and basketball courts.

Turks And Caicos

The Sands at Grace Bay is located in Providenciales, an area known for its beaches. 

This resort offers perks of bike riding, poolside cocktail parties, kayaking, snorkel gear, and basketball and tennis courts.

Best of all, you can stay here for a discounted 15% through December 19, 2019.

Puerto Rico

San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is located on Condado Beach and is nearby Old San Juan. 

This family-friendly resort offers welcome cocktails at Gingambo Beach Bar, but that’s not all!

Free perks include yoga lessons with a personal trainer, Zumba and Latin classes, aqua fitness classes, and $30 in casino coupons for the 24-hour casino.

One of the confusing parts of traveling is figuring out the monetary customs in foreign countries.

Would businesses accept the American dollar?

Can I use my credit card everywhere?

Do I need to exchange cash prior to my flight or can I exchange after landing?

These are all common questions that come to mind when going on an international vacation.

If you’re traveling to the Caribbean, especially, there are important money factors to note.

The Caribbean is a popular destination amongst travelers and it’s important to know the basics before your next Caribbean getaway.

Receiving Change

All change is returned to you in the local currency of the island you’re on. This means if you pay a vendor in American dollars, you can expect your change to be returned in their local money.

Converting Prices In Barbados

When traveling to Barbados, all you have to do is divide prices in half and voila!, you have the price in US dollars.

Beware Of Ripped Or Torn Notes

Even if the island accepts US dollars, some won’t accept notes that are ripped or torn. Make sure to travel with cash that is in good physical condition.

Currency In Martinique

Martinique is a French-speaking island in the Caribbean sea and its form of currency is the Euro.

Long Money In Jamaica Or Guyana

In some islands, like Jamaica or Guyana, your US dollar goes a very long way.

For example, if you convert USD $100 in Jamaica, you’ll get JMD $13,607.48. If you have a few hundred dollars to spend while visiting these countries, you can live a life of luxury.

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC/XCD)

There are 8 countries in the Caribbean whose currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC/XCD): Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

If you’re visiting more than one of these countries on your next vacation, you’ll be able to spend the currency interchangeably.

US Dollar In The Caribbean

The US dollar is the form of currency used in the British Virgin Islands, the United States Virgin Islands and The Bahamas.

Cashiers In Jamaica

Cashiers in Jamaica are very observant and they look at serial numbers and dates on cash. They will also refuse your cash if its old.

Big Bills In Jamaica

When traveling to Jamaica, do not carry around “big bills” such as USD $50 and $100. These bills will most likely be refused.

Leave Large Bills At Home

Overall, it’s better to leave large bills at home. Many islands in the Caribbean do not like accepting large bills.

They often go through security measures such as putting the bills under a UV light and using a counterfeit money detector pen when handed a large bill.

For weeks, Kanye West has been taking his Sunday Service on the road, hitting cities across the country like New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and Detroit. Now, the gospel/hip hop mashup is headed to the Caribbean.

Kanye West’s Sunday Service is b heading to Jamaica. The event, which will be held at Emancipation Park in Kingston, is free to the public at begins at 7 PM tonight.

This is the first time the Sunday Service event has been held internationally. Kanye reportedly worked in conjunction with Jamaica’s Tourism Board to pull this off.

“I received a call from a contact overseas on Monday night, and by Tuesday we were meeting with Kanye’s advance team, who was already on the island,” said Jamaica’s Entertainment Minister Olivia Grange. “Along with the personnel, they will be bringing in some of their own equipment. We will have to arrange protocols at the airport to ensure that everything runs smoothly.”

If all goes well, Kanye plans to take the massive concert to Africa, Europe, and Asia next.

It all started in graduate school for Linda and Leonard Jackson, who have been together now for 16 years and married for 12 of those years.

From the Carribean Islands, Europe, and in Linda’s home of Malawi, the couple has traveled to at least 11 countries with their son Miles.

In an interview with Travel Noire, the Jacksons discussed what they love about traveling as a family and have a small piece of advice for couples traveling with children.

Travel Noire: How many countries have you visited together?

The Jacksons: We have been to Jamaica, The United Kingdom, France, Sweden, The Netherlands, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, Malawi, Puerto Rico & Italy together as a couple. We have traveled with our son, Miles, to Malawi, South Africa, Sweden, The United Kingdom, and France. 

My native country is Malawi, so it was important to me that both Miles and Leonard got the opportunity to visit my homeland in Africa.

TN: What’s your favorite country so far and why?

The Jacksons: We love Europe and have been to London and Paris several times. My favorite place so far has been Italy. I loved the history and culture we experienced. That was our first time taking guided tours on a trip and it was well worth it to learn all about Italy’s rich history. Florence and Tuscany were incredibly enriching and the Amalfi Coast was breathtaking. The best part of that trip was sharing the experience with our good friends Otto and Danielle. Leonard has always loved Paris for its history, architecture, and fashion. Paris is also one of his favorite cities to run and he has a ritual of running to the Eiffel Tower every time we go.

TN: What’s the best part about traveling together as a family? 

The Jacksons: The best part about traveling together as a family is the shared experience of seeing the world and experiencing new cultures. We endeavor to give our son the joy of learning through travel. We also want him to have an appreciation for different cultures.

TN: Tell us about one of the most challenging times you’ve experienced during your travels and how you got through it? 

The Jacksons: One of the most challenging times we had, was the first couple of days in Tokyo. We got lost and found it difficult to find someone to help us that spoke English. Once we started to use the Metro system, we found it  much easier to get around.

TN: What countries are next for you all? 

The Jackson’s: Our ten-year-old son Miles has been asking to go to Tokyo for the last four years. We’ve been wanting to go back and are hoping to take him there next spring! We would also love to visit Australia and New Zealand in the next year or two.

Lastly, what advice would you give traveling couples and/or couples with children? 

The Jacksons: Our advice for couples is to see and do as much as you can before you have children. It becomes harder to get away once you have familial obligations. Once you have children, we would advise parents to include them on experiences so they can get a broader view of the world. We still take the opportunity to get away alone as a couple so we can nurture our relationship. 

When you’re traveling with your significant other, food and adventures for two people can get pricey. Don’t let that stop you. There are a few destinations that you can travel to that won’t break the bank.

Below is a list of budget-friendly vacations for you and your partner that are easy to get and full of things to do.

Jamaica

The mountains, rainforests, and beaches in Jamaica mean one thing about this Caribbean island: there’s plenty to do. You can snorkel one minute in Ocho Rios, eat your way through the countryside, or catch a vibe and listen to live Reggae in Kingston.

Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

Los Cabos and the Riviera Maya tend to be more expensive cities in Mexico but Valle de Guadalupe offers a wine alternative versus the beach.

Located just 70 miles from the San Diego to Tijuana border, Valle de Guadalupe is easy to get to.

The area is known as Mexico’s wine country and it would make the perfect romantic getaway for two.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

With plenty of directs from U.S. cities and no passport required for entry, Puerto Rico is great for couples.

San Juan has very romantic hotels, restaurants, and activities, many of which are free and affordable.

Puerto Rico’s capital city is vibrant and full of beautiful architecture, that even a walk through town would be enough.

Portugal

Portugal is the kind of destination that has something for everyone and as one of Europe’s cheapest destinations, you can experience Portugal on a budget.

Thailand

Thailand is full of affordable accommodations, hotels, restaurants, and experiences, that will allow couples to get the most out of their dollars. After a few days in Bangkok, you can head over for a quick trip to Koh Samui.

Travelers are still in shock over the happenings in the Dominican Republic over the past few months, causing them to flock to other Caribbean islands like Jamaica, where tourism rates have skyrocketed by 54%.

Tourists are traveling from as far as China and Germany to see this tropical blue island. Jamaica earned almost two billion US dollars in revenue, according to Pearnel Charles, the Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation.

If you’re wondering what makes Jamaica so special, here’s why tourists are still flocking to the island.

Food & Culture

The vibe in Jamaica is unmatched and easy to fall in love with. The people are energetic and full of love and life. From breathtaking beaches and unique food experiences on the island, Jamaica has a lot to offer.

Enjoy authentically tasty dishes like oxtails, jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, and delicious pastries like gizzada (nutmeg with sugar and coconut on a pastry). You can also taste the real flavor of Jamaica at one of the most highly anticipated events of the year, Jamaica Food & Drink Festival. The annual, week-long event is a celebration of Jamaican and international food with themed events and activities. Foodies will also love Restaurant Week in November. It’s the perfect way to end the year at one of the best food festivals in Jamaica.

Musical Legacy

Since I was a little girl, I’ve always listened to reggae and dancehall music. But there’s something different about hearing it in its country of originthat makes you appreciate the lyrics, the riddim, and the way it makes you move your hips.

In Jamaica, you’ll hear everyone from Bob Marley, Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, and Bounty Killer to Shenseea, Koffee, dub music, and other reggae fusion styles.

New Resorts & Renovations

Jamaica is known for its mouth-dropping all-inclusive resorts which are suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families. Beaches Negril resort has a feet-in-the sand seafood restaurant and a pirate-themed splash area for kids. Bluefields Bay Villas comes equipped with a chef, butler service, and access to water sports on the property’s private beach.

Adventure

With so many happenings and activities on the island, its tough to chose which to partake in. Normally a relaxing destination, surrounded by palm trees, clear blue beaches, blaring reggae music by Bob Marley, your trip to Jamaica can be as lively as you want.

Experience serene vibes on a bamboo raft ride down the Martha Brae River in Montego Bay. Other popular attractions rainforests, steep mountain peaks, and a 600-ft long waterfall at Dunn’s River Falls.

Is the inner nudist in you calling out for a chance to reveal itself? If ‘clothing-optional’ sparks your curiosity, here are some of the most stunning resorts in the Caribbean where clothing is not only optional but frowned upon.

Desire Pearl Riviera Maya, Cancun, Mexico

A solo trip is out of the question, as this resort is reserved for couples only and promises to immerse you both in a deliciously sensual ambiance, where inhibitions do not exist. Expect to partake in a number of erotic activities including adult entertainment nights, an adult playroom, and Jacuzzi Lounge.

RELATED: Must-Try Signature Cocktails Throughout The Caribbean

Hawksbill, Hawksbill Bay, Antigua

This beautiful resort has four secluded beaches to offer its guests, including, for budding naturists, the only clothing optional beach in the whole of Antigua. Set on 37 acres of landscaped tropical gardens directly on the beach, Hawksbill resort is an adults-only getaway to truly get you back to nature.

Couples Tower Isle, Ochos Rios, Jamaica

This renowned resort actually requires you to wear clothing everywhere except for Tower Isle, a small private island located a short boat ride from the main resort where nudity isn’t just optional, it’s required.

Hidden Beach Resort, Riviera Maya, Mexico

The Hidden Beach Resort is the only 5 Star, an adults-only nudist resort in Mexico and stays true to its name located next to a jungle and surrounded by walls to protect guests’ privacy. Not for the shy or timid, nudity is expected the entire time while you stay here.

RELATED: Most Beautiful Airbnb’s In The Caribbean With Beachfront Views

The Natural, Willemstad, Curacao

“Clothing optional, be yourself”, is this resort’s motto offering tranquility for nature lovers, divers, and conscious living people.  The Natural Curacao is centrally located on one of the most beautiful and vibrant places of the island Curacao in the southern Caribbean and welcomes solo travelers, couples, and anyone over the age of 14.

Protecting the planet has its perks.

Germaican Hostel, located in Port Antonio, Jamaica, is gifting good samaritans with a “pure ganja no tobacco added” joint if they pick up a bucket’s worth of trash at  Long Bay Beach.

Marian, the 33-year-old founder of the hostel, says that he came to up with the idea to give a gift of a spliff after being upset over the trash on the beach.

“I was just totally upset with all the garbage around us,” he said. “so the last months I did a lot of research about trash, especially about plastic trash. I often saw some pics where people offered free coffee for a bucket of trash. My girlfriend made a joke, she said, ‘In Jamaica, we should offer free spliffs.'”

So, instead of free coffee, Marian rolled 56 spliffs and placed a sign on the beach. 30 minutes later, the first beach cleaner arrived to pick up their bucket of trash.

“One of the funniest things about all that, the two buckets I bought were more expensive than all the joints,” he continued. “The buckets are at the bar next to my sign, so take up a bucket, walk the beach, fill it, bring it to the bar and get a spliff. These are presents. All the garbage which is collected will be taken by the local garbage collection; they take it to the landfills.”

Did the U.S. Department of State put an end to publishing crime data against Americans harmed in Jamaica? Investigators from the Detroit Free Press think so.

For the first time in seven years, the State Department did not list the number of Americans who were victims of sexual assault, murdered, kidnapped or robbed in Jamaica in its 2019 Crime and Safety Report.

The data from 2018 was previously published in a 2018 Free Press Investigation, which found that the number of sexual assaults against U.S. tourists remained an unchecked problem on the Caribbean island, with an estimated one American raped a month, according to the report.

Officials from the State Department did not respond to requests made by the media outlet, even though authorities warned that rape and sexual assault are serious problems throughout Jamaica, including at resorts and hotels where the use of date rape drugs is possible.

The Jamaica 2019 Crime and Safety Report was released following questions regarding safety on a few Caribbean islands.

At least 10 American tourist deaths have been reported in the Dominican Republic since May and 19 people have died in Costa Rica as a result of alledged faulty alcohol.

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There are currently nine Caribbean destinations that the U.S. State Department has issued Level 2 travel advisories for, citing violence and crime.

Level 2 means that travelers should exercise “Increased Caution.”

The other countries on the Level 2 travel advisory list: The Bahamas, Belize, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, and Turks and Caicos,

Despite the lack of data in the Jamaica 2019 Crime & Safety report, U.S. officials continue to warn about sexual violence against women tourists in Jamaica.

“If you are a victim of a sexual assault, contact the police and the U.S. Embassy in Kingston as soon as possible,” the State Department said in the report.

Through an investigation, however, sexual assault victims told the Detroit Free Press that resorts have ignored their fears, discouraged them from going to the police, and in some cases silenced them with free travel in exchange for them signing non-disclosure agreements.

Even the State Department warns that sexual assault victims may not receive fast or adequate services after reporting the crime to police in the report:

“Victims of sexual assault in Jamaica should not expect the same assistance routinely offered in the United States. Rape kits are not always available, and victims must often ask for medication to avoid STD transmission and reduce the chances of pregnancy. An offer of counseling is unlikely. Law enforcement shortcomings exist in the collection of evidence. The prosecution of rape cases moves very slowly. Victims may need to return to Jamaica during the legal process.”

When it comes to drinking in the Caribbean, rum is always the liquor of choice. But how each island concocts their signature cocktail flavors with local ingredients to highlight the main attraction (rum), is very much part of the history and culture of the island.

Puerto Rico

Like many of the Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico, home to the Bacardi rum factory, is known for its rum. Some estimates state that nearly 80 percent of the rum consumed in the United States comes from Puerto Rico.

Signature Cocktail: Piña Colada

Ingredients: Light rum, coconut milk, pineapple juice, ice, and a cherry for garnish

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Jamaica

Many delicious cocktails are enjoyed throughout this vibrant island, and if beer is your preference, be sure to try Red Stripe Beer which has been brewed in Jamaica since 1938. But when it comes to cocktails, one famed rum mixture is a Jamaican classic.

Signature Cocktail: Old Jamaican

Ingredients: Mint, lime juice, rum, pure can simple syrup, Angostura, and a splash of champagne

St. Kitts

St. Kitts may be best known globally for its production of sugar cane, but one trip to this stunning Caribbean island and you may find that another local favorite is just as renowned.  

Signature Cocktail: A Ting with a Sting

Ingredients: Rum and Ting (a local grapefruit flavored soda)

St. Martin

On this small island in the Caribbean, the local drink is derived from guavaberries. These are small orange and black berries that grow on trees on the island, not to be confused with guavas. The locals combine them with rum to create a guavaberry liqueur.

Signature Cocktail: Guavaberry Kir

Ingredients: Guavaberry liqueur and champagne

Antigua

This island’s most famous crop is the black pineapple, which isn’t actually black, but green when it’s at its most ripe stage. It’s no wonder that pineapple juice would make an appearance in this island’s signature cocktail.

Signature Cocktail: Antigua Smile

Ingredients: Rum, crème de banana, fresh pineapple juice and black pineapple garnish

Bermuda

Although not located in the Caribbean, Bermuda has a signature cocktail that has taken on global significance (and it also contains rum). The dark ‘n’ Stormy is the unofficial drink of Bermuda and of the global boating and sailing community. According to cnn.com, Bermuda, where the Dark ‘n’ Stormy was invented, is known as the shipwreck capital of the world, with 300 identified vessels lying ruined at the bottom of the surrounding North Atlantic Ocean.

Signature Cocktail: Dark ‘n’ Stormy

Ingredients: Rum, ginger beer, and lime

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Barbados

Barbados can boast having one of the oldest rum distilleries in the world: Mount Gay Rum, which has been in operation since 1703. It’s not surprising that rum makes a prominent appearance in this island’s signature cocktail.

Signature Cocktail: Rum Punch

Ingredients: Lime juice, simple syrup, rum and Angostura bitters

Imagine walking out to your private balcony and diving headfirst into crystal blue ocean waters. For many people, staying in an overwater hotel is on the top of their travel bucket list. Here are some of the most beautiful hotels that seemingly float in the ocean.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji

This resort is specifically designed for a couple’s getaway. From 360 views of the surrounding waters and magical sunsets, to a luxury spa and private island excursions, every detail of your trip will cater to relaxation and romance. According to the website, each bungalow is perched on the edge of the vibrant fringing reef in a natural, pristine lagoon and protected marine sanctuary. Your room will feature traditional architecture and materials using natural elements unique to the region. 

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St. Regis Bora Bora

The St. Regis Bora Bora is home to the largest overwater villas in the South Pacific, starting at 1,550 square feet. You will revel in the turquoise blue waters visible from the glass panels placed throughout your overwater bungalow and explore an island paradise set amidst a private saltwater lagoon. The hotel’s luxury amenities include five restaurants, a fitness center, full-service spa, and swim-up bar. 

El Dorado Maroma, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Don’t think you have to travel around the world to experience the luxury of overwater living. El Dorado Maroma is located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and was voted number 4 Best Resort in the World by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.  A stay in this adults-only resort means experiencing unobstructed views of the stunning ocean sunrises and sunsets from your personal infinity pool on your private deck. With an outdoor shower, glass bottom floors, and a dedicated butler, you will be living in paradise.

Sandals South Coast, Jamaica

Enjoy complete immersion with the Caribbean and marine life below in these overwater bungalows. Every bungalow captures the height of luxury with your private patio equipped with an extended sun deck, outdoor shower, sun loungers, and a bistro set for two. Couples can also admire the beauty of the ocean from their private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or over-water hammocks. Inside, glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views any time.

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Le Taha’a, Tahiti

Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa is a world of its own, set on beautiful Motu Tautau, a private islet looking onto the lush shores of Taha’a on one side and the majestic silhouette of Bora Bora on the other. With 5-star service and a breathtaking setting to match, you may never want to leave.