Canadians are re-calibrating their travel routes. Recent uncertainty and turbulence have caused Canadians to re-evaluate how and where they spend, from supermarkets to vacations. There is increasing interest in traveling to the east, the west and even the north, but when it comes to traveling south, travelers are leapfrogging over the US to the Caribbean.
“South-er” is the term used to describe the trend of Canadians traveling south of the southern border’s southern border, where dream vacations await. This spring and summer consider south-er(n) bliss in these jewels of the Caribbean.
Antigua and Barbuda
One of the trendiest Caribbean destinations in recent years, Antigua and Barbuda gets a leg up on the competition by offering not one island, but two! Larger Antigua has charming coastal towns, inspired cuisine, world-class sailing, and lavish yet welcoming resorts. Barbuda is an eco-tourism haven, with quiet coastal caves, pink sand beaches, and a large, central lagoon home to the largest colony of Frigatebirds in the region. It’s two vacation experiences coming together to form one cohesive whole, and it’s a delight to experience at any time of the year. https://www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/
Cuba
Canadians have long enjoyed spending part of their winter in Cuba, an accessible and affordable destination that offers so much more than the cigars, cars, and culture of Havana. Varadero, Caya Largo, and Villa Clara offer visitors new ways to engage with the winning Cuba formula: warm sun, soft sand, and storied cities. https://gocuba.ca/
Bahamas
700 islands and cays provide a unique microcosm of paradise. When traveling to the Bahamas, island-hopping is the thing to do. Grand Bahama Island offers three distinct destination experiences, each with its own charm, energy, and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back family vacation, a vibrant city getaway, or total immersion in untouched nature, this Bahamian gem has it all. West Grand Bahama is an authentic laid back family island experience, perfect for kids and adults alike. Spend your days snorkelling at Paradise Cove and Deadman’s Reef; visit historic settlements and sample fresh Bahamian seafood in the historic West End for regional dishes like whole fried Bahamian lobster, fluffy panny cakes, and pickled conch salad.
Freeport is where city-energy meets island-relaxation. World-class resorts, luxury shopping, and unique culinary experiences. Wander through the Port Lucaya Marketplace, where colourful boutiques, waterfront dining, and live Bahamian music set the scene for unforgettable nights. Freeport is also home to beloved local institutions like Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience, serving up freshly prepared conch.
East Grand Bahama is an eco-wonderland waiting to be discovered. Lucayan National Park is a 40-acre sanctuary home to diverse ecosystems, featuring one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems. At Sweeting Cay, you can swim alongside sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. This is the part of Grand Bahama where the island’s raw beauty takes centre stage. https://www.bahamas.com/
Martinique
“The Isle of Flowers” certainly lives up to its moniker: this sophisticated French-Caribbean destination is a wonderland of green hills and mountains, trilling birds, and gentle blue waves. Enjoy elevated cuisine by the water before spending a day hiking the slopes of Mt. Pelée. You must try the local rum: its pedigree is renowned throughout the region and beyond. https://www.martinique.org/en
And just a little more south-er…
Colombia
Come for the legendary coffee culture, stay for the…well, everything else. Colombia’s breathtaking landscape has a little bit of everything: blue seas, white dunes, rolling green hills, and colourful, colonial cities. Each distinct region of Colombia is rich in biodiversity and culture, mixing the natural appeal of the Amazon and Andes with the vibrant modern culture of cities like Bogotá and Medellín. https://procolombia.co/
However far south-er you go, Bon Voyage!
