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Coral Kaleidoscope Package at Anse Chastanet

Most dive resorts offer relatively basic amenities, but if you're looking for a luxury dive experience then fix your eye on the Coral Kaleidoscope scuba package from St. Lucia's Anse Chastanet resort.

The deal includes seven nights stay, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, all taxes and service charges, airport transfers, welcome cocktail, drinks in room fridge and tropical fruit on arrival, 12 beach or boat dives (including up to two substitutions from a day dive to night dive). Also included are usage of tennis court/equipment, watersports equipment (snorkeling, kayaking, mini-sailing, windsurfing,) beach chairs/towels, cand omplimentary resort water taxi to Anse Mamin beach.

Rates range from $6,742 for two people in a room in high season (Dec. 20 - April 15), $5,832 for two in shoulder season (April 16 - May 31 and Nov. 1 - Dec. 19), and $5,377 in low season (June 1 - Oct. 31). If you book at least three months in advance, your 7th night is free.

For more information call 800-223-1108.

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Coral Kaleidoscope Package at Anse Chastanet originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, May 17th, 2012 at 08:24:43.

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about.com | 17-May-2012 10:24

Stay at the Hard Rock, Get a Guitar

Ever dreamed of serenading your sweetheart on a tropical beach? Here's your chance!

Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos -- including the Hard Rock resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic -- will loan you a Fender guitar from their collection as part of The Sound of Your Stay program. In addition to free guitar loaners -- Stratocasters, Telecasters, and Fender bass guitars are available -- you'll get a headphone amp and a set of SOUL by Ludacris headphones, plus video guitar lessons if you wish.

Other elements of the program include free 'tracks' playlists you can download to your music player and a 'mix' in-room DJ program.

"Music is the soul of the Hard Rock brand, something that truly sets Hard Rock Hotels apart as a travel destination," says Brian Klein, head of global marketing for Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos.  "The Sound of Your Stay is intended to enhance and expand the musical dimension of our guests' experience."

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Stay at the Hard Rock, Get a Guitar originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, May 16th, 2012 at 09:07:03.

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about.com | 16-May-2012 11:07

Regent Palms Launches New Spa

The Regent Palms Turks and Caicos resort has revamped and reopened its spa, adding a new treatment menu, spa products, and sprucing up the treatment rooms at the 26,000-square-foot facility. The spa will now feature organic spa products from Sothys and Zents, signature Caribbean-inspired treatments such as the Mother of Pearl Conch Polish (which uses a blend of hand crushed local queen conch shells), and the indigenous Zareeba treatment during which guests inhale an aromatic steam from a blend of freshly brewed therapeutic herbs followed by a toxin-releasing massage. Signature Asian-inspired treatments also are available.

Book Now

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Regent Palms Launches New Spa originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, May 15th, 2012 at 09:01:52.

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about.com | 15-May-2012 11:01

Lynyrd Skynard Headlines Simple Man Cruise; KISS 'Kruise' to Follow

"Freebird" on the high seas? Yes, that's a thing now. Legendary Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd is headlining the sixth-annual Simple Man Cruise Oct. 27-31 on the Norwegian Pearl, celebrating Halloween along with a bunch of supporting acts. The cruise starts in Miami, with stops in Key West and Norwegian's Stirrup Cay private island in the Bahamas.

On Halloween, the second annual KISS Kruise will depart on the Pearl for three nights on the same course.

For a full list of all the performers aboard the cruises and more information, visit the Sixthman website.

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Lynyrd Skynard Headlines Simple Man Cruise; KISS 'Kruise' to Follow originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Monday, May 14th, 2012 at 09:40:32.

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about.com | 14-May-2012 11:40

Real Bottom Line Prices from Bucuti and Tara Beach Resorts in Aruba

How much do you hate it when your hotel bill increases by a third or more at checkout when all the taxes, "resort fees" and other annoying add-ons are included? I love it that the Bucuti and Tara Beach Resorts in Aruba have decided to be upfront in listing all of including all of these charges -- plus the cost of local calls, wifi, a Skype-equipped netbook in each room, and a full American buffet breakfast daily -- in their published room rates.

It's similar to what U.S. airlines were recently forced to do by government regulators, and a policy I wish more hotels would adopt. Kudos to owner Ewald Biemans -- who's also a leader in sustainable Caribbean tourism -- for embracing such an honest policy.

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(Photo © Bucuti Beach Resort)

Real Bottom Line Prices from Bucuti and Tara Beach Resorts in Aruba originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Sunday, May 13th, 2012 at 09:29:11.

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about.com | 13-May-2012 11:29

AirTran Launches Denver-Cancun Service

AirTran Airways -- now a subsidiary of Southwest Airlines -- last month launched new service between Denver International Airport and Cancun. It's AirTran's first international flight out of Denver.

The flights will depart daily now through July 7, then operate Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from July 8 through Aug. 12. Flights will then be trimmed to Saturday and Sunday only through November.

Southwest recently announced that Rapid Rewards members can earn bonus points when booking select international flights on AirTran Airways, including the new service between Denver and Cancun.

Compare Prices on Cancun flights with Kayak

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AirTran Launches Denver-Cancun Service originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Saturday, May 12th, 2012 at 12:02:31.

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about.com | 12-May-2012 14:02

Cancun and the Circus: Moon Palace Guests Get Free Tickets to Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy

Talk about 0ff-, off-Broadway: The Moon Palace Golf Resort and Spa in Cancun, Mexico is hosting a performance of the Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy show this summer (June 29 thru Aug. 5) and guests at the all-inclusive resort will receive complimentary tickets to "the grandest circus spectacle east of Vegas."

Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy is brought to life by an international cast of aerialists, contortionists, acrobats, jugglers and musicians in a jungle setting filled with flowers, magical trees and a variety of special effects designed to entertain all ages. And yes -- it all happens under the Big Top.

Book a stay at Moon Palace for five nights and you'll receive two complimentary tickets to the performance; those who book seven nights or more in an Oceanview room category or above will receive up to three tickets. All other Palace Resorts guests staying at the nearby Beach Palace, Sun Palace, Playacar Palace and Le Blanc will be able to purchase tickets and receive priority transportation to and from Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, as well as priority access to their seats. Palace Resorts is offering nine weekly shows at an introductory rate of $25-$75.*

The Moon Palace "Connection Zone" also will offer circus-themed activities.

Guests who stay three nights or more also can receive up to $1,500 in Resort Credits that they can use for spa treatments, golf rounds, room upgrades and local tours.

Book Now

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Cancun and the Circus: Moon Palace Guests Get Free Tickets to Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, May 11th, 2012 at 13:27:41.

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about.com | 11-May-2012 15:27

Run Through the Streets of Havana This Fall

Runners of all abilities have a unique opportunity to run side-by-side with residents of Cuba this fall during the Marabana Havana Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K races. The races will be held on Sunday, Nov. 12 and -- thanks to recently liberalized travel rules -- U.S. runners can join the fun for the first time.

"This year, a nearly decade long dream is being realized in the ultimate people-to-people experience, a 26.2 mile marathon through the neighborhoods of Havana," says Tom Popper, director of Insight Cuba, a tour company legally authorized to bring U.S. runners to the race. "We are excited that Americans can participate in this beautiful event that has been largely impossible for U.S. runners since 1963. It will be a day of triumphs, both individual and collective, as Americans run side by side with Cubans."

The Marabana Havana Marathon has been run each year since 1987, winding through the streets of Havana, along the waterfront Malecon, past the Hotel National and Revolution Square, and through the Parque Central.

Insight Cuba's Nov. 15-19 Marabana Havana Marathon program includes:

·         Marathon entry fee

·         Medical check-up

·         Most meals, including a marathon pasta lunch on Saturday afternoon

·         First-class hotel accommodations in Havana

·         Cuban host to facilitate all marathon details and people-to-people activities

·         All entrance fees to scheduled activities and events

·         All in-country ground transportation and transfers

·         U.S. Treasury Department license and Letter of Authorization

·         Travel insurance, emergency medical evacuation insurance and medical trip cancellation coverage

Prices are $1,995 per person double occupancy; $2,295 single occupancy. Runners may participate in the full marathon, half marathon, 10K or 5K. Space is limited. For more information, visit www.insightcuba.com or call 1-800-450-CUBA (2822).

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(Photo © Jodastephen via Flickr)

Run Through the Streets of Havana This Fall originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, May 10th, 2012 at 13:56:55.

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about.com | 10-May-2012 15:56

Fourth Night Free at Pink Beach Club This Month

Bermuda is a great last-minute getaway destination, especially if you're on the East Coast. If you book a stay at Bermuda's Pink Beach Club by May 31 you'll get a fourth night free when you pay for three -- plus daily breakfast, afternoon tea, and a five-course gourmet dinner every night. Rates start at $525 nightly, single or double occupancy, plus tax and service charges.

Book Now

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Fourth Night Free at Pink Beach Club This Month originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, May 9th, 2012 at 13:00:18.

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about.com | 09-May-2012 15:00

Breezes Runaway Bay Sold, But Will Remain Open

The all-inclusive SuperClubs chain announced last month that it will sell the Breezes Runaway Bay Resort & Spa in Jamaica to the owners of the Jewel Dunn's River Beach Resort and Spa. The resort will remain open as an all-inclusive property under the new owners, Sagicor Life Jamaica.

(Compare Prices on stays at the Runaway Bay resort with Kayak)

The property will be rebranded to The Jewel Runaway Bay Resort effective June 1, 2012.  Sagicor Jamaica CEO Richard Byles said the 266-room hotel will be renovated and expanded.

SuperClubs will continue to operates the Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril in Jamaica; Breezes Bahamas; Breezes Búzios Resort & Spa in Brazil; Breezes Varadero, Breezes Balla Costa; Breezes Jibacoa in Cuba; and Hedonism II in Negril.  SuperClubs also operates and independently markets affiliate ROOMS resorts in Ocho Rios and Negril, and Jamaica's Negril Beach Villa.

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(Photo © SuperClubs)

Breezes Runaway Bay Sold, But Will Remain Open originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, May 9th, 2012 at 12:54:35.

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about.com | 09-May-2012 14:54

Follow About Caribbean Travel on Pinterest!

About Caribbean Travel just launched our Pinterest page, starting with some pins of lovely Caribbean beach photos (what else, right?). Follow us here!

Also don't forget our other social-media channels:

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Follow About Caribbean Travel on Pinterest! originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, May 9th, 2012 at 08:46:16.

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about.com | 09-May-2012 10:46

Caneel Deals for USVI Beach-to-Beach Swim

Memorial Day weekend is celebrated in St. John, U.S.V.I., with the annual Beach-to-Beach Power Swim, held May 27 this year. The 3.5-mile open-water swim is sponsored by the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, although there are multiple courses and distances swimmers can choose from based on their skill and fitness level. The event helps raise awareness for the island's Learn to Swim Program and the park.

The Caneel Bay resort on St. John is offering a Dive into Relaxation Package for swimmers and spectators alike that includes:

• 30% off room rates

• Breakfast for two per day

• Complimentary Sunset Cocktail Cruise for two

• Special welcome gift

• Room rates begin at $338.00 per night based on double occupancy; three-night minimum stay is required.

Book Now

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(Photo © Caneel Bay, A Rosewood Resort)

Caneel Deals for USVI Beach-to-Beach Swim originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, May 8th, 2012 at 12:30:52.

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about.com | 08-May-2012 14:30

Ladera, Cap Maison Again Pair for 'Peak to Beach' Packages

Want to experience it all -- almost literally -- on your next trip to St. Lucia? Two of the island's top hotels -- Ladera and Cap Maison -- are once again teaming up to offer stays at both resorts plus a mond-boggling array of activities.

Cheap, they're not, but the packages still represents good value considering what you'll get:

The 2012 Peak to Beach Package Collection

The "Peak to Beach" Classic Package

  • Three nights in a Gros Piton Suite at Ladera with a private plunge pool and unobstructed views of the Piton Mountains
  • Three nights in an Oceanview Villa Suite at Cap Maison with a private infinity pool.
  • All meals
  • All beverages
  • One 1-hour spa treatment per person at Ladera's Ti Kaye Pose Spa, and one per person at Cap Maison's Spa.
  • Ground airport transfers, upon arrival and departure
  • Rates through Dec. 19, 2012, $5,750

Book Now at Ladera or Cap Maison

The "Peak to Beach Adventure" Package:

Three nights in a Gros Piton Suite at Ladera with a private plunge pool and unobstructed views of the Piton Mountains

Three nights in an Oceanview Villa Suite at Cap Maison with a private infinity pool.

All meals

All beverages

One 1-hour spa treatments per person at Ladera's Ti Kaye Pose Spa, and one per person at Cap Maison's Spa.

Choice of two guided adventure excursions during the stay in the southern region of Saint Lucia:

• Escorted climb to the summit of the Gros Piton mountain

• Escorted walk into the rainforest

• Snorkel excursion

• Hotwire Zip Line at Morne Coubaril

Choice of two guided adventure excursions during the stay in the northern region of Saint Lucia:

• Rainforest Zip Line

• Horseback riding on the east coast trails

• Kite surfing

• Mountain biking

• Segway Adventure

Ground airport transfers, upon arrival and departure

Rates through Dec. 19, 2012: $7,505

Book Now at Ladera or Cap Maison

The "Peak to Beach Ultimate Luxury" Package

At Ladera:

• Three nights in a Luxury Villa at Ladera with a private plunge pool and open terrace featuring unobstructed views of the Piton Mountains

• Welcome bottle of local signature rum

• All meals

• All beverages

• One Couples Massage in the total privacy of Ladera's Paradise Ridge

At Cap Maison:

• Three nights in an Oceanview Villa Suite at Cap Maison with a roof terrace, private pool and the highest sea views available

• A welcome bottle of chilled champagne

• One Couple's Massage at Spa Maison

• All meals

• $75 per day beverage credit

Luxury transfers:

• Helicopter transfer from Hewanorra International Airport

• 45-minute scenic water transfer between resorts by 27-foot power boat

Rates through Dec. 19, 2012: $9,593

Book Now at Ladera or Cap Maison

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(Photo © Ladera Resort)

Ladera, Cap Maison Again Pair for 'Peak to Beach' Packages originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, May 1st, 2012 at 14:57:51.

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about.com | 01-May-2012 16:57

How to Avoid Identity Theft in the Caribbean

Petty theft is the most common form of crime encountered by Caribbean travelers, but these's nothing insignificant about having your wallet or credit cards stolen if the thief is able to access your credit lines or bank account. Even worse is when unscrupulous vendors or restaurant workers steal your credit-card information -- by the time you get home from your trip, thieves could have used your credit-card number to ring up big purchases without your knowledge.

Beach time is an especially vulnerable time for valuables to get lifted, putting Caribbean travelers especially at risk, so check out these helpful tips on avoiding identity theft on your next Caribbean trip.

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How to Avoid Identity Theft in the Caribbean originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Monday, April 30th, 2012 at 11:53:10.

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about.com | 30-Apr-2012 13:53

Traveling with Family? A Villa Can Save You Money

Couples and even families with one or two kids can get a reasonable deal sharing a hotel room, but the costs can add up when the size of your Caribbean travel party hits five or more. Jen Bryarly of Wheretostay.com makes the case for considering a luxury villa rental for your next Caribbean trip with family in tow, particularly for a destination wedding ...

Private Villas: How to Save Money on a Caribbean Group Getaway

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Traveling with Family? A Villa Can Save You Money originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Sunday, April 29th, 2012 at 09:44:56.

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about.com | 29-Apr-2012 11:44

Have a Fun and Safe Trip to Jamaica!

Safety always seems to be a top concern for many travelers to Jamaica. Personally, I've been encouraged by the very visible security presence during my recent trips to Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, but like anywhere you can run into trouble if you wander into the wrong parts of Jamaica. To learn more, check out my new guide to Crime and Safety in Jamaica.

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Have a Fun and Safe Trip to Jamaica! originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Saturday, April 28th, 2012 at 15:34:00.

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about.com | 28-Apr-2012 17:34

Crime and Safety in Belize: What You Need to Know

The bad news about Belize is that the crime rate is very high, particularly around Belize City. The good news is that the Caribbean islands of Belize are much safer. Learn more about how to safely travel in and around the eco-tourism destination of Belize:

Crime and Safety in Belize

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Crime and Safety in Belize: What You Need to Know originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, April 27th, 2012 at 15:38:38.

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about.com | 27-Apr-2012 17:38

Want to Visit Cuba? These Companies Can Get You There, Even from the U.S.

Cuba has been walled off from most American travelers for half a century, but recent changes to the U.S. Cuba travel policy have made it much easier for the average U.S. citizen to get to the largest island in the Caribbean as part of "people to people" cultural programs. Here's some helpful information on the educational travel companies have been licensed by the U.S. State Department to run these trips, designed to introduce you to the people and culture of Cuba:

Licensed Cuba Travel Providers

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Want to Visit Cuba? These Companies Can Get You There, Even from the U.S. originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 26th, 2012 at 15:03:30.

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about.com | 26-Apr-2012 17:03

Booking Caribbean Flights? Do It 11-12 Weeks in Advance for the Best Fares

In recent years, Caribbean travelers have fared best in getting cheaper flights (8 percent lower, on average) by booking at the last minute -- just two weeks before departure. But a new report from the New York Times says that patterns have shifted, and now travelers are getting the best prices on Caribbean flights when they book 11 to 12 weeks out.

Definitely start shopping for flights well in advance if you are traveling to Costa Rica or islands with less competition among airlines, says Rick Seaney of Farecompare.com. You can also use Kayak.com to compare prices on Caribbean flights across a wide range of booking engines and airlines.

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Booking Caribbean Flights? Do It 11-12 Weeks in Advance for the Best Fares originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, April 20th, 2012 at 09:12:43.

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about.com | 20-Apr-2012 11:12

Tides Hotels, Jalousie Plantation Being Renamed as Viceroy Hotels

Viceroy Hotel Group has announced that The Jalousie Plantation on St. Lucia and the Tides Zihuatanejo will re-launch as Viceroy Hotels and Resorts, joining the recently renovated and rebranded Viceroy Riviera Maya in Mexico, the Tides Sugar Beach resort in St. Lucia, and the Viceroy Anguilla, among other luxury properties.

Viceroy recently opened eight new Luxury Beachfront Bungalows at Jalousie Plantation (Book Now). Renovations completed in January at the Viceroy Riviera Maya (Book Now) included 11 new luxury villas with plunge pools, including the resort's first beachfront and ocean-view villas. New casual and fine-dining restaurants, and a new fitness center.

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(Photo © Jalousie Plantation)

Tides Hotels, Jalousie Plantation Being Renamed as Viceroy Hotels originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 19th, 2012 at 09:19:53.

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about.com | 19-Apr-2012 11:19

Win a Villa Stay in Anguilla from WheretoStay.com

WhereToStay.com is giving away a 5-night stay at Meads Bay Beach Villas in Anguilla when you join Caribbean Villas and Hotels on Facebook,  add them to your Google+ circle, or watch the Villa Experts on YouTube. The winner will be announced on April 25, 2012. Visit WhereToStay.com's giveaway page for official rules.

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Win a Villa Stay in Anguilla from WheretoStay.com originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 19th, 2012 at 09:11:44.

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about.com | 19-Apr-2012 11:11

Save a Third Off Vacation Rentals in St. Maarten

Porto Cupecoy in St. Maarten has unfurled savings of up to 36 percent on seasonal vacation rental condos, with rates starting at $1,700 per week when you book by April 30. The marina resort has condos ranging from 1,000 to 2,928 square feet with oversized balconies or patios with marina views, furnished living and dining rooms, marble or travertine baths, and Viking kitchens. Amenities include a pool, fitness center, tennis courts, marina, boutique stores, restaurants and cafes, and a gourmet grocery.

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Save a Third Off Vacation Rentals in St. Maarten originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, April 18th, 2012 at 09:01:26.

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about.com | 18-Apr-2012 11:01

Like Choice Hotels on Facebook, Win a Caribbean Trip!

Visit and "like" Choice Hotels' Facebook page now through April 30 and you'll be entered into the Caribbean Dreamin' Sweepstakes. The grand prize winner will get round-trip airfare for two and 100,000 Choice Privileges points to use at any of the 11 Choice Hotels properties in the Caribbean. There also will be some instant prize giveaways, like Amazon Kindles, Apple iPod Shuffle music players, and Tumi.com gift cards. Choice brands include Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, and Ascend Collection properties worldwide.

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Like Choice Hotels on Facebook, Win a Caribbean Trip! originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, April 17th, 2012 at 09:49:31.

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about.com | 17-Apr-2012 11:49

Get Up to $1,000 Towards Airfare with Elite Island Resorts Stay

Book a stay at an Elite Island Resorts property in the Caribbean by April 30 and you can get up to $1,000 towards the cost of your flight -- plus kids stay and eat free.

Elite has all-inclusive resorts in Antigua, Grenada, St. Lucia, the British Virgin Islands, and the Grenadines. To get the full airfare credit, you'll need to book a stay of seven nights or longer; if you stay five or six nights, however, you'll still get $600 towards the cost of your air travel.

The air credit program applies to stays at:

Families can bring up to two children free when sharing a room with two adults for seven nights or longer at St. James's Club & Villas, The Verandah Resort & Spa, and Morgan Bay Beach Resort.

The deal is good on travel now through Dec. 20, 2012. For more information call 800-858-4618.

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(Photo of LaSource resort, Grenada © Elite Island Resorts)

Get Up to $1,000 Towards Airfare with Elite Island Resorts Stay originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Monday, April 16th, 2012 at 14:41:42.

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about.com | 16-Apr-2012 16:41

Could Houston Be the Next Gateway to the Caribbean?

Most Caribbean travelers (well, those not taking direct flights, anyway) are used to layovers in Miami or San Juan, Puerto Rico, but if Southwest Airlines has its way the next big gateway to the islands may be near the coast of Texas.

Earlier this year, Southwest formally requested permission from the city of Houston to build a five-gate international terminal at Houston's Hobby Airport, Southwest's home since 1971. In doing so, the low-cost airline explicitly touted Hobby's potential as a gateway to Mexico, the Caribbean, and parts of Central and South America.

As American Airlines pulls back from the Caribbean, Southwest could become the next big player in the region. The airline currently has no international flights, but it has a code-share arrangement with the Mexican airline Volaris and also owns AirTran, which has flights to Aruba, Cancun, Nassau, Montego Bay, Punta Cana, San Juan, and Bermuda. The eventual plan is for Southwest to completely take over AirTran's operations.

More on Caribbean Airlines and Air Travel

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(Photo of Southwest Airlines 7373 © Pylon757 via Flickr)

Could Houston Be the Next Gateway to the Caribbean? originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Saturday, April 14th, 2012 at 18:24:25.

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about.com | 14-Apr-2012 20:24

Four Seasons Nevis Makeover Complete

Not only has the Four Seasons resort in Nevis reopened after a long absence, the resort also has completed a long-running renovation project, Travel Weekly reports. Four Seasons has spent about $110 million since 2010 to restore and enhance the property, which was shuttered for two years after being battered by Hurricane Hugo in 2008. The last round of additions on Nevis' premier resort included a new fitness center.

Book Now

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Four Seasons Nevis Makeover Complete originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, April 13th, 2012 at 14:21:47.

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about.com | 13-Apr-2012 16:21

La Samanna Upgrading Rooms

The La Samanna Resort in St. Martin is about halfway through an $8 million refresh of its guest rooms, Travel Weekly reports. Fifty of the resort's 83 guest rooms have been updated with new furniture, bathrooms, kitchenettes, and floors, along with original works from local artists. The project is slated for completion by year's end.

Book Now

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(Photo © La Samanna)

La Samanna Upgrading Rooms originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 12th, 2012 at 14:14:59.

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about.com | 12-Apr-2012 16:14

Seventh Night Free at New Venetian on Grace Bay

It's always exciting when a new hotel opens, and now's your chance to check out the posh new Venetian on Grace Bay on Providenciales, Turks & Caicos, and save a few dollars too. Book a penthouse room at the resort by April 30 for six nights and you'll get a seventh night free.

Each penthouse has three bedrooms, three baths, living and dining areas, a media room and full kitchen, so they're great if you're traveling with family or friends. The resort has an outdoor pool, lighted tennis court, fitness center, and concierge services. Rates start at $2,175 nightly, with a maximum occupancy of six people.

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Seventh Night Free at New Venetian on Grace Bay originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, April 11th, 2012 at 11:36:56.

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about.com | 11-Apr-2012 13:36

Sandals Royal Bahamian Completes Major Renovation

Sandals resorts has unveiled the new Balmoral Tower at its Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort and Offshore Island in Nassau, Bahamas. The tower, formerly known as the Manor Building, was completely renovated after being damaged by Hurricane Irene last summer.

The building, on the site of the former Balmoral Club, seeks to recapture the glory days when guests included the Beatles and the Duke and Dutchess of Windsor. Renovations included adding balconies to 35 rooms and making 11 ground-floor rooms into walkouts with direct pool and beach access, according to Travel Weekly.

Book Now

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(Photo © Sandals Resorts)

Sandals Royal Bahamian Completes Major Renovation originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, April 11th, 2012 at 09:01:23.

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about.com | 11-Apr-2012 11:01

This Earth Day, 'Voluntour' at Caneel Bay

This Earth Day, you can help keep one of the most beautiful resorts on the planet clean and get a good deal in the process. Book a room at Caneel Bay on St. John, U.S.V.I., the week of April 21-28 (April 22 is Earth Day) and you'l receive 30 percent off regular nightly rates. Plus, if you volunteer to help clean up the coral reefs offshore for four hours, you'll receive a $100 credit to use at the resort.

The Reef Bed Clean-Up is sponsored by the Patagon Dive Shop at Caneel Bay, and will involve both guests and staff volunteers. Scuba-certified diver will clean the reefs and collect cans and bottles, which will be handed off to non-divers in kayaks to be transported back to shore. Refreshments will be served all day, and at 5 p.m. there will be a guest speaker who will talk about conservation in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Book Now

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(Photo © Caneel Bay Resort)

This Earth Day, 'Voluntour' at Caneel Bay originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, April 10th, 2012 at 11:33:46.

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about.com | 10-Apr-2012 13:33

What are the Best Beach Bars in the Caribbean?

What makes a great Caribbean beach bar? It's such a subjective question: if you ask me, the more authentic the better -- I like the rough, down-home places like Bomba Shack, or those with really cool locations like Saba Rock (both in the British Virgin Islands), rather than fancy hotel bars (no matter how cool they are). A new list of "best" Caribbean beach bars from Fox News contains a little bit of both:

  • Infiniti Beach Bar, Grace Bay Resorts, Turks and Caicos: I haven't been here, that 'infinity bar' looks pretty sweet though.
  • MooMba Beach Bar, Aruba: Right on Palm Beach, so not exactly a quiet location. A big bar under a thatched hut, catering to tourists
  • The Soggy Dollar, British Virgin Islands: A legendary spot, deserves to be on any list of top Caribbean watering holes
  • Beach Bar at Bohemia, St. Kitts Marriott, St. Kitts and Nevis: Really? Been here, it's a hotel bar. Not buying.

I think we can do better than this, people. Let me know what you think are the best beach bars in the Caribbean -- I've got my own thoughts, but I don't want to influence your choices. I'll put our ideas together and come up with a more worthy list for About Caribbean Travel...

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(Photo of Big Bamboo Beach Bar on Anegada, © British Virgin Islands Tourist Board)

What are the Best Beach Bars in the Caribbean? originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, April 10th, 2012 at 11:05:59.

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about.com | 10-Apr-2012 13:05

Up to Half Off Breezes All-Inclusives; Book by April 18

You can save up to half off regular room rates by booking a stay at a Breezes all-inclusive property this month: Reserve a room by April 18 for travel between May 1 and Dec. 21. In Jamaica, the deal is good at the Breezes Runaway Bay (Book Now) and Breezes Grand Negril (Book Now) properties, as well as the Breezes Bahamas resort on Cable Beach in Nassau (Book Now) and the Breezes Buzios resort in Brazil (Book Now).

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(Photo of Breezes Bahamas Resort © Breezes Resorts)

Up to Half Off Breezes All-Inclusives; Book by April 18 originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Monday, April 9th, 2012 at 18:11:08.

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about.com | 09-Apr-2012 20:11

Carnival Eyes Calica as New Mexican Caribbean Cruise Port

A port now used mostly for ships carrying sand and gravel for Riviera Maya construction projects is set to become a new home for Carnival Cruise Line ships. Travel Agent Central reported that the cruise line is investing in improvements at the Calica port -- located near the Xel-Ha and Xcaret theme parks, and three miles south of Playa del Carmen -- aimed at turning it into an alternative (or additional) berth to Cancun and Cozumel.

Carnival calls Calica "the newest gateway to the Yucatan Peninsula."  Some cruise ships have already docked at Calica, but it remains a rough industrial site with no tourism infrastructure.

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(Photo of Carnival Ecstasy © Carnival Cruise Lines)

Carnival Eyes Calica as New Mexican Caribbean Cruise Port originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Monday, April 9th, 2012 at 12:57:47.

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about.com | 09-Apr-2012 14:57

Gay Cruisers Convicted of Indecent Exposure in Dominica

Just to update this story from last month: The two men charged with "buggery" and indecent exposure for having sex on the balcony of a cruise ship docked in Dominica pled guilty to the latter charge, were fined, and have left the country. ABC News reported that the two men paid $4,000 in fines and were chastised by a local judge after spending a night in jail. The charge of buggery was dropped; under Dominica law, gay sex is illegal.

The couple were on a gay-themed cruise organized by Atlantis Events; the company president, Rich Campbell, said the incident would not dissuade his firm from visiting Dominica again.

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Gay Cruisers Convicted of Indecent Exposure in Dominica originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Sunday, April 8th, 2012 at 13:16:25.

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about.com | 08-Apr-2012 15:16

Golf Course and Theme Parks Coming to Cuba

Thirteen new golf courses could be open on Cuba by 2020 as the Cuban government ramps up efforts to attract tourists, Bloomberg reports. Deputy Tourism Minister Alexis Trujillo also said the government plans to invest in a theme park and 25,000 new hotel rooms. Cuba now gets 2.7 million tourist visits annually, and more travelers from the U.S. are expected as the Obama administration eases travel restrictions to the island.

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Golf Course and Theme Parks Coming to Cuba originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Saturday, April 7th, 2012 at 11:56:28.

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about.com | 07-Apr-2012 13:56

15% Off Stays at New Tobago Resort, Magdalena Grand

Book a stay by April 14 at the new Magdalena Grand Beach Resort in Tobago and you'll get a special introductory discount of 15% off regular room rates. The resort features 22 one- and two-bedroom suites, three pools, and 18-hole golf course, tennis, and a variety of bars and restaurants located on the Tobago Plantation Estate.

Book Now

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(Photo © Magdalena Grand Beach Resort)

15% Off Stays at New Tobago Resort, Magdalena Grand originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Saturday, April 7th, 2012 at 09:30:48.

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about.com | 07-Apr-2012 11:30

Story Laments 'Death of Tourism' in Port Antonio

Port Antonio is called the birthplace of Jamaica tourism, but the capital of Portland Parish on the northeastern coast of Jamaica is struggling to stay relevant on the island's tourist map, the Jamaica Gleaner reported recently. Home to early "banana boat" tourists and a haven for Hollywood stars like Errol Flynn.

Port Antonio still has the legendary Blue Lagoon, its historic downtown and the Fort George ruins, but has lost itsDragon Bay Beach Resort, Trident Villas and Castle - a showcase property, Fern Hill Hotel and Villas, and Blue Lagoon restaurant in recent years. The loss of hotel rooms has been especially harmful, leaving only about 500 total rooms in the region for those who want to visit, the Gleaner reports.

However, the Frenchman's Cove resort is still going strong (Book Now), as is the Hotel Mockingbird Hill (Book Now), if you want to check out a historic corner of Jamaica that's a little quieter than Montego Bay or Negril.

Story Laments 'Death of Tourism' in Port Antonio originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, April 6th, 2012 at 11:38:01.

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about.com | 06-Apr-2012 13:38

Sun Sets Soon on Bermuda's 'Sizzling Summer' Deal

Bermuda's Sizzling Summer promotion can get you up to $600 in resort credit based on how many nights you stay at a participating hotel, with a minimum four-night stay. You'll get a $400 credit for four nights, $500 credit for five nights, and $600 credit for six nights. But you need to book your stay by April 14 for travel April 1 through October 31, 2012.

Hotel rates range from $299 - $460 per night. Participating hotels include:

• Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa

• Coral Beach Club

• Elbow Beach

• Fairmont Hamilton Princess

• Fairmont Southampton Hotel

• Grotto Bay Beach Resort

• The Reefs Hotel & Club

• Newstead Belmont Hills Resort

• Pompano Beach Club

• The Royal Palms (must include both Friday and Saturday nights)

• Rosedon Hotel (must include Saturday night)

• Surf Side Beach Club

Compare Prices on Bermuda Hotels Using Kayak

For more information on the Sizzling Summer promotion, visit the Bermuda Department of Tourism website or call 1-800-BERMUDA.

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(Photo © The Reefs Resort)

Sun Sets Soon on Bermuda's 'Sizzling Summer' Deal originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, April 6th, 2012 at 09:00:24.

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about.com | 06-Apr-2012 11:00

$119 a Night at St. Lucia's Morgan Bay Resort: Act Fast!

An all-inclusive stay at a fab St. Lucia resort for just $119 a night? Yes, it's true -- but the deal expires in just a few short days. Now through April 8, you can get a standard room at the Morgan Bay Resort (formerly the Almond, now part of the Elite Island Resorts chain) for just $119 per person per night. Plus, you'll get an automatic one-category room upgrade and half off your next stay!

If you want posher digs, further room upgrades cost $25 per person, and you can add a third adult for $75 per night or a child for $50 per night. A three-night minimum stay is required.

The deal is good for travel through Dec. 20, 2012.

Book Now

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$119 a Night at St. Lucia's Morgan Bay Resort: Act Fast! originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 5th, 2012 at 17:20:35.

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about.com | 05-Apr-2012 19:20

Breezes Trelawny Resort to Close May 31; Breezes Curacao Out, Too

The Breezes Resort and Spa in Trelwany, Jamaica will shut down on May 31, pending a sale to an undisclosed buyer, Travel Weekly reports. SuperClubs, which owns the Breezes chain, also recently announced that the Breezes Curacao property will be dropped from its portfolio, as well. The hotel will revert to its owners and previous name -- the Princess Beach Resort and Casino Curacao -- but remain an all-inclusive resort.

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(Photo of Breezes Trelawny © SuperClubs)

Breezes Trelawny Resort to Close May 31; Breezes Curacao Out, Too originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 5th, 2012 at 13:40:36.

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about.com | 05-Apr-2012 15:40

American Eagle Winging Out of Caribbean?

The rumor mill is hot and heavy that American Eagle -- the short-hop subsidiary of American Airlines -- will be abandoning its San Juan, Puerto Rico hub next year. There's been no official announcement, but the local media in San Juan is reporting that American Eagle will cease operations there as part of American's Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization. American Airlines reportedly has informed its Puerto Rico employees that the Caribbean hub will be closed by March 2013.

American Eagle daily flights from San Juan have already fallen from about 100 in 2000 to around 20 or so now.

Anyone who travels regularly in the Caribbean knows what a big deal this is: For decades, American Eagle has been one of the biggest players in regional air service between San Juan and the other islands of the Caribbean, and its inter-island routes won't be replaced easily. JetBlue has started to fill some gaps --offering flights between San Juan and St. Maarten and the U.S. Virgin Islands, for example -- but it remains to be seen whether other regional airlines will step in, as well.

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American Eagle Winging Out of Caribbean? originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Thursday, April 5th, 2012 at 11:07:38.

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about.com | 05-Apr-2012 13:07

Wake the Day: What are Your Favorite Places to See a Caribbean Sunrise?

The New York Times recently published a story on the best places in the world to see a sunrise, which included the Mayan ruins at Tulum on Mexico's Caribbean coast. It got me thinking about other great places in the Caribbean to watch the sun come up. Admittedly, I'm not a real early riser, so my personal experience is somewhat limited in this regard. Thus, I'm reaching out to you, dear readers: What places in the Caribbean are worth getting up in the pre-dawn darkness to experience an awesome sunrise?

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(© Lowjumpingfrog via Flickr)

Wake the Day: What are Your Favorite Places to See a Caribbean Sunrise? originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Wednesday, April 4th, 2012 at 20:10:38.

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about.com | 04-Apr-2012 22:10

Stevie Wonder, Dave Mason Jam at Bolongo Bay Resort

If you were at the Bolongo Bay Resort in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, last night, you would have gotten one of those impromptu treats that seem to happen most often in the Caribbean: R&B legend Stevie Wonder joining the local Becca Darling band and legendary rock guitarist Dave Mason in a surprise jam session at the hotel's Iggie's restaurant.

The band had played Wonder's song, "Living for the City," shortly before the legendary performer got onstage to play harmonica for a cover of the Animals' "House of the Rising Sun."

Later, Mason -- who had performed a weekend show at the resort -- joined Wonder onstage for a rocking blues jam. Check out the video on YouTube.

Somehow, I think the 75 or so people who actually were there to see the show will grow exponentially as time goes on!

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(Photo of Stevie Wonder and Dave Mason © Bolongo Bay Resort)

Stevie Wonder, Dave Mason Jam at Bolongo Bay Resort originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012 at 14:00:36.

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about.com | 03-Apr-2012 16:00

Miami Rum Renaissance Festival: April 16-22

Getting excited about attending this year's Rum Renaissance Festival in Miami -- South Beach plus dozens of the best rums in the world is a potent combination! I'm looking forward to learning more about rum from some of the world's leading experts on this distinctive, Caribbean-born liquor -- not to mention the parties hosted by Bacardi, Appleton, Caliche, Brugal, Diplomatico, and other leading rum brands!

Tickets are still available for the show, including the two-day public Grand Tasting scheduled for April 21-22. Hope to see you there, in good spirits!

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Miami Rum Renaissance Festival: April 16-22 originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012 at 10:35:23.

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about.com | 03-Apr-2012 12:35

St. Croix Food and Wine Experience Tickets on Sale Today

Starting today, March 31, you can order tickets online for the annual St. Croix Food and Wine Experience -- but you need to act fast if you want to snare some coveted tickets to the popular Taste of St. Croix. Other events include a restaurant crawl through Christenstad, cooking classes, a beach BBQ, wine dinners, a food and wine symposium, and a battle of the chefs.

The festival takes place April 17-22. For more details, see the St. Croix Food and Wine Experience website.

More on Travel to St. Croix

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St. Croix Food and Wine Experience Tickets on Sale Today originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Saturday, March 31st, 2012 at 07:51:22.

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about.com | 31-Mar-2012 09:51

2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards Announced!

It's official: The votes have been tallied and verified, and the winners of the 2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards for Caribbean Travel have been named:

Read More About the Caribbean Readers' Choice Award Winners

Find out who won all the other 2012 Readers Choice Awards

Congratulations to all of the winners! With more than 25,000 votes cast over the course of a month, some of the voting was remarkably close. Old San Juan, for example, edged out another great Puerto Rico attraction, the Bioluminescent Bay in Vieques, by just 12 votes, and Altos de Chavon in the Dominican Republic by just 17 votes.

Island Windjammers and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines each received more than 2,000 votes, but when the tallying was complete the small, tall-ship cruise company beat out Royal Caribbean and its mega-ships by a 52% to 38% margin.

Curacao was the biggest vote-getter in the entire contest, receiving 5,288 votes as best destination to beat out runner-up Trinidad & Tobago. Seven Stars Resort ran away with the Favorite Caribbean Resort award, getting 62% of the votes cast.

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2012 About.com Readers' Choice Awards Announced! originally appeared on About.com Caribbean Travel on Friday, March 30th, 2012 at 09:00:15.

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about.com | 30-Mar-2012 11:00

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