| "body"> | | | | Christopher Columbus discovered the Caribbean |
| You've worked hard all year and you finally have time | | | | centuries ago by accident, as he was trying to reach |
| to rest. Treat yourself to a piece of paradise by going | | | | Southeast Asia (that's how the Caribbean got its |
| on a trip to the Caribbean! Snorkel, go boating, hike, or | | | | West Indies name). It was then occupied by an |
| just relax in the sprawling beaches - you can do | | | | Amerindian group called the "Carib"; this the name |
| absolutely anything you want. | | | | "Caribbean." The region was once very famous for its |
| The Caribbean has been a favorite vacation spot of | | | | legendary sea pirates. |
| tourists from the world over. In fact, millions of people | | | | Now, most of the different Caribbean islands belong to |
| visit the islands from the United States alone. The | | | | the independent South American countries, but some |
| charm of the Caribbean lies not just on its beautiful | | | | are still part of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, |
| beaches and romantic sunsets - it also has a rich | | | | France, or the United States. |
| history and a colorful culture that truly makes it | | | | Caribbean hotels and resorts are usually fully booked |
| addictive. | | | | during peak season, so it is advisable to take care of |
| Also known as the West Indies, the Caribbean group | | | | your accommodations at least three months in |
| of islands is actually located in the perimeter of the | | | | advance. If you want more privacy, visit the less |
| Caribbean Sea, very near the South American | | | | popular islands that offer the same first-rate |
| countries of Mexico and Venezuela. The Caribbean is | | | | accommodations. It's not a good idea to visit the |
| composed of about 7,000 islands, each differing in size. | | | | Caribbean from April to December, though, as these |
| The islands are grouped into the Greater Antilles, | | | | are hurricane months. If you still want to go during this |
| Lesser Antilles, and the Bahamas. | | | | period, always check for weather updates. |