The Caribbean offers not only dreamlike beaches! At second glance, the small paradises of fine sand and coconut palms reveal historic old towns, botanical gardens, lively markets and lush green natural beauty.
When vacationing in the Caribbean, bathing and relaxing on the paradisiacal beaches are of course in the foreground. But even away from the picture-book beaches, the Caribbean islands have some interesting sights to offer. Some of them tell of the colonial past and are of enormous historical value, others tell of the dark chapter of slavery.
Nature lovers get their money's worth in nature reserves and botanical gardens, which present the unique tropical flora and fauna of the Caribbean. Those who look inland, away from the sailing, diving and swimming areas of this paradise, really get to know the Caribbean soul and dive deep into the history of its breathtaking islands.
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Old Havana, Cuba
Havana's historic center and its massive fortifications in Cuba are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most worth seeing old town districts in the world. In the colorful mix of African, Indian and Spanish culture, you can stroll through typical Caribbean alleys. Museums present interesting history, colonial cathedrals and palaces show the wealth of the Spaniards at that time and cozy bars serve cool mojitos.
Article: Old town of Havana, Cuba
Photo gallery: Old Town of Havana, Cuba
Ponce, Puerto Rico
The architecture of the Puerto Rican city of Ponce is so special that it even got its own name: Ponce Creol. Puerto Rico's unique architectural style runs through the entire city, turning not only churches and museums, but also simple homes and even the fire station into impressive landmarks.
Diamond Botanical Gardens, St Lucia
The privately run Diamond Botanical Gardens in southwestern St. Lucia are set in the lush green Caribbean jungle just outside Soufrière. Hidden among cocoa and mahogany trees are mineral hot springs, an old sugar cane mill, and the idyllic Diamond Falls.
Article: Diamond Botanical Gardens on St. Lucia
Oranjestad, Aruba
In the colorful old town of Oranjestad, capital of the dream island of Aruba, candy-colored facades exude Dutch-Caribbean flair. Thanks to the numerous U.S. guests, you will find luxurious resorts and shopping opportunities of the finest behind the beautiful beach promenade.
Article: Oranjestad on Aruba
Photo gallery: Oranjestad on Aruba
Dunn's River Falls, Jamaica
Hard to believe, but the Dunn's River Falls are often called the main attraction of Jamaica. The over 200m long waterfall shoots over countless cascades into the Caribbean Sea, between which natural pools invite you to splash around again and again. Those who have had enough of swimming can tackle the popular challenge of climbing up Dunn's River Falls.
Article: Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica
Historic Centre of Willemstad, Curaçao
The capital of the Caribbean island of Curaçao cannot hide the fact that it once belonged to the Netherlands. Willemstad's old town, which is well worth seeing, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers picturesque 17th-century architecture, colorful markets, the revolving Queen Emma Bridge and the oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere.
In one of the world's largest natural harbors, huge tankers drop anchor, while three imposing fortresses still guard the channel there, with a magnificent view over the sea.
Article: Top 10 places to visit in Willemstad
Photo gallery: Historical center of Willemstad
Caroni Marshes in Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago
The mangrove wetland on the west coast of Trinidad is an important nature reserve covering 80 square kilometers. The lush green Caroni Marshes are home to boas, caimans and some 200 birds - of which the impressive flocks of the bright red Scarlet Ibis are the most spectacular to behold.
Article: Caroni marshes in Trinidad
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo was the first city in the New World to be founded by none other than Christopher Columbus and is today the capital of the Dominican Republic. In the historic center, one building steeped in history follows the next. The old town of Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and bears the name Colón (Columbus) on every corner.
Article: The Top 10 Sights of Santo Domingo
Balata Botanical Garden, Martinique
With its breathtaking plant life, the botanical garden of Balata on the "flower island" of Martinique is one of the most beautiful gardens in the Caribbean. On an area of about 3 hectares, around 3,000 different flowering plants and palms from all over the world are on display, swarmed by flocks of iridescent hummingbirds.
Article: Balata Botanical Garden Martinique
Straw market in Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau, the capital of the vacation paradise Bahamas, is home to one of the largest straw markets in the world. Since it was no longer possible to earn money with sponges, the locals relied on impressive works of art made of sisal and palm leaves with the Nassau straw market - with resounding success!
