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• Quick Facts: Caribbean •

Official Website: www.aruba.com

CIA Background Notes: Discovered and claimed by Spain in 1499, Aruba was acquired by the Dutch in 1636. The island's economy has since been dominated by three main industries: gold, oil, and—since the late 20th century—tourism. Seceding from the Netherlands Antilles in 1986, Aruba became a separate, autonomous member of the Netherlands Kingdom. Movement toward full independence was halted in 1990 at Aruba's request. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds. Temperature almost constant at about 81ºF. Situated outside the hurricane belt.

Ports of Entry: Most Cruise lines visit Aruba, stopping at Oranjestad. International flights arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport, which can accommodate large airplanes.

Dress: Casual, light cottons during the day; elegantly casual attire at night. Bathing suits/mini shorts not appropriate on the streets or in restaurants. Long pants and hiking footwear suggested for trails. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block.

Driving: A valid driver's license accepted. Car speedometers and road signs are in kilometers, not miles. ABSOLUTELY NO RIGHT TURNS on red lights.

Voltage: 110/120 Volt AC, 60 Hz (same as the U.S.)

Language: Dutch is the official language; English is widely spoken. Other languages: Papiamento (a Spanish-Portuguese-Dutch-English dialect) and Spanish.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: Aruba has no sales tax, but be prepared for an hefty government tax on rooms; in addition, most hotels routinely add another 5-7% as a "service fee" (and some even tack on an energy surcharge). A 15% service charge is usually included in your restaurant bill, but that doesn't necessarily all go to your waiter (some restaurants keep a portion for overhead); feel free to tip extra to the waitperson directly if you're pleased with the service. Taxis charge a flat rate; 10-15% of your fare is customary.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Geo Coordinates: 12 30 N, 69 58 W

Getting Married in Aruba: Both civil and religious marriages can be performed here if both parties are at least 18 years old. Documents must be submitted to the Office of the Civil Registry a minimum of 14 days prior to the ceremony, either in person or via mail. Civil marriages must take place at the City Hall in Oranjestad. Couples may also arrange a religious blessing after the marriage. You'll find detailed information here.

»» Back to Aruba on WGH.

Official Website: www.bahamas.com

CIA Background Notes: Lucayan Indians inhabited these islands when Columbus first visited in 1492. British settlement began in 1647; the islands became a colony in 1783. Since attaining independence from the UK in 1973, The Bahamas have prospered through tourism, international banking, and investment management. Due to its geography, the country is a major transshipment point for illegal drugs, particularly to the US and Europe; its territory is used for smuggling illegal migrants into the US. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical marine, moderated by the Gulf Stream's warm waters and trade winds. Temperatures range from 68-86° during the day to 62-70° at night. In the hurricane zone.

Terrain: Long, flat coral formations with some low, rounded hills.

Ports of Entry: Most flights to the Bahama Airport depart from Florida. A few companies run high-speed ferries between Florida and Grand Bahama Island. A dozen or more cruise lines have a port of call in the Bahamas (usually Nassau). Marinas are readily available to service private sailboats.

Dress: Casual, light cottons during the day; elegantly casual attire at night. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block.

Driving: Driving is on the left side of the road, as in England. If you usually drive on the right, stay alert when driving here.

Getting Around: Rental cars are easily available with a valid driving license. Or consider renting a scooter, moped, or bicycle for running around. Taxis and jitneys (busses) are a good alternative to driving yourself. Regularly-scheduled ferries run from Nassau to several islands, including Harbor, Spanish Wells, Exuma, Andros, and North Eleuthera.

Voltage: 110/120 Volt AC, 60 Hz (same as the U.S.).

Language: English is the official language. Creole is also spoken by Haitian immigrants.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: All licensed hotels collect a hotel tax, and many levy another tax to support the hotel association. A service charge of 10-15% may also be added to your bill. Check for these charges when booking so you'll be prepared at checkout. Any meal (from fast food to posh restaurant) will have a 10-15% service charge tacked onto the bill.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5 hours). Daylight Saving Time is observed.

Geo Coordinates: 24 15 N, 76 00 W

Getting Married in the Bahamas: Couples must apply in person for a marriage license, and can tie the knot as soon as they receive license approval (usually a day's wait). No blood test necessary, but you'll need a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of arrival date (your passport's entry stamp should do the trick). If you've never been married, you'll need a notarized declaration certifying to this fact. If divorced or widowed, bring the applicable death certificate or divorce decree. More info: Registrar General, P. O. Box N-532, Nassau, The Bahamas; 242-323-0594.

What to buy: Straw items such as hats and bags; hand-crafted wood items. Ten categories of goods can be purchased duty-free: Perfumes & Fragrances, Crystal, Leather Goods, Jewelry, Fine Linens & Tablecloths, Watches & Clocks, Photo Equipment, China, Binoculars, and Telescopes.

»» Back to the Bahamas on WGH.

 

Official Website: www.barbados.org

CIA Background Notes: Barbados was uninhabited when settled by the British in 1627. Slaves worked the island’s sugar plantations until 1834, when slavery was abolished. The economy remained heavily dependent on sugar, rum, and molasses through most of the 20th century. The gradual introduction of social and political reforms in the 1940s-1950s led to complete indepen-dence from the UK in 1966. Tourism and manufacturing now surpass the sugar industry in economic importance. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical, sunny; rainy season June to October. Average daytime temperatures: 75-85°F; nights slightly cooler.  

Terrain: Mostly flat, rising gently to a central highland area. 

Ports of Entry: Barbados International Airport (BGI) is served by many airlines. A deep water harbor in Bridgetown is a port of call for many cruise lines.

Dress: Casual, light cottons during the day; elegantly casual attire at night. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block.

Driving: A Barbados driving license is required, obtainable from car rental companies (you'll need your own valid license to obtain it). Driving is on the left side of the road, as in England. If you usually drive on the right, stay alert when driving here.

Getting Around: Rental cars are easily available. Or consider renting  mopeds or bicycles by the day or week for getting around. Taxis and jitneys (busses) are a good alternative to driving yourself. Taxis are not metered, renting by the hour instead; settle on a fare before hopping in. No ferries operate here, but yachts, catamarans, and other boats are available for charter—usually with a skipper or crew.

Voltage: 110/120 Volt AC, 60 Hz (same as the U.S.).

Language: English is the official language.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: A service charge will often be added to your restaurant bill—check to see if it's there so that you don't tip twice (as in the US, 10-15% is customary). Most hotels add a service charge to the final bill, so be prepared for this extra charge—usually around 10%. In addition, consider tipping your maid $2 per day.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). Daylight Saving Time is not observed.

Geo Coordinates: 13 10 N, 59 32 W

Getting Married in Barbados: It's relatively easy to marry in Barbados, which has no required waiting period or minimum length of stay. Application for a marriage license must be made by both parties in person at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs in the capital city Bridgetown. You will need valid passports; return tickets;  an original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of the Final Judgment if either of you is divorced; a certified copy of Marriage and Death Certificates, if either of you has a deceased spouse. In addition, if the ceremony will be Roman Catholic, relevant documents must be sent by your bishop to the bishop of Bridgetown. Documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

What to buy: Mahogany carvings, island-made rum, calypso & soca CDs, pottery.

»» Back to Barbados on WGH.

Official Website: www.bermudatourism.com

CIA Background Notes: Bermuda was first settled in 1609 by shipwrecked English colonists headed for Virginia. Tourism, to escape northern winters, first developed in Victorian times; it's still important to the island's economy, although surpassed in recent years by international business (Bermuda has become a successful offshore financial center). A referendum on independence from the UK was soundly defeated in 1995, debate on the issue continues. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Subtropical, mild, humid; gales and strong winds in winter. Hurricane season runs June to November. Temperature averages mid-70s from November through April; between 75-85° May-October.

Terrain: Low hills separated by fertile valleys. Ample rainfall throughout the year, although no rivers or freshwater lakes.

Ports of Entry: Many airlines offer direct or connecting flights to Bermuda International Airport. It's a popular stop for cruise ships, too.

Dress: Casual during the day; conservative casual attire at night. Confine bathing suits to the beach. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block.

Driving: No rental cars available—only mopeds! Most visitors think this increases the fun. Mopeds are popular with thieves, too, so lock up securely. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Getting Around: Four separate ferry routes operate like busses to take people around the island. The ferries are inexpensive, and you can also buy a money-saving pass for the length of your stay. Public busses (with color-coded direction poles) are also available. The same pass works on both busses and ferries.

Voltage: 110/120 Volt AC, 60 Hz (same as the U.S.).

Language: English is the official language; some Portuguese.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: Most restaurants add 15% to the bill, but check to be sure — tipping your waitperson, as in the U. S., is expected. All hotels add a Bermuda Government Hotel Occupancy Tax to your bill, and many also add a service charge. Check for these charges when booking so you'll be prepared at checkout. A "departure tax" is included in the price of your airline ticket or cruise. For taxi drivers a tip of around 10% is appropriate.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). Daylight Savings Time is observed.

Geo Coordinates: 32 20 N, 64 45 W

Getting Married in Bermuda: No blood tests or health certificates are required, but a "Notice of Intended Marriage" must be published in Bermuda newspapers (at a cost of around $250). Fifteen days must then pass before the Registrar General can issue a marriage license, which remains valid for 3 months from the date of issue. You'll find detailed information here.

What to buy: Bermuda shorts, craft items made from local cedar, black rum cakes, banana leaf dolls, Bermuda sherry peppers.

Miscellaneous Notes: (1) Although Bermuda has its own currency, the U. S. dollar is widely accepted. (2) Be prepared for high prices, as Bermuda is one of the most expensive destinations in the Caribbean.

»» Back to Bermuda on WGH.

Official Website: www.curacao.com

CIA Background Notes: Once the center of the Caribbean slave trade, Curaçao was hard hit by slavery's 1863 abolition. Prosperity was restored in the early 20th century when refineries were constructed to service the newly-discovered Venezuelan oil fields. Curaçao is one of the Netherlands Antilles islands, along with Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius, and half of Saint Martin (the island is shared with France). »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical, warm, sunny, with average temperatures in the mid 80s F. Moderated by cooling northeast trade winds. Rainy season: October-February.

Terrain: In general the island is hilly, with a volcanic interior

Dress: Residents tend to be fashionable here, especially when dining out at night. Light, tropical, casual clothing is appropriate. Most indoor restaurants and other venues are air-conditioned, so it's a good idea to carry a light sweater. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block. Wear long pants for hiking as a protection against cacti and mosquitos.

Driving: Driving is on the right side of the road. Yield to traffic on the right.

Voltage: 127/120 at 50 cycles. Most US appliances (60 cycles) will work well except for devices with internal time mechanisms. The same 2-pronged flat plugs are used as in the US. European visitors can use dual-voltage appliances, but require an adapter plug.

Language: Papiamento (a Spanish/Portuguese/Dutch/English dialect), English, Dutch, Spanish, Creole.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: Most restaurants add 10% to the bill, but check to be sure — tipping your waitperson, as in the U. S., is expected. Most hotels add 12% charge for room service; all add a 7% government tax. For taxi drivers a tip of around 10% is appropriate.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). Daylight Savings Time is observed.

Geo Coordinates: 12 15 N, 68 45 W

Getting Married in Curacao: The requirements are a bit involved, as you can see on the official website, here.

What to buy: Curaçao liqueur.

Miscellaneous Notes: The local currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, but US dollars are also widely used.  ATM machines are easily found throughout the island.

»» Back to Curacao on WGH.

Official Website: www.grenadagrenadines.com

CIA Background Notes: Carib Indians inhabited Grenada when Columbus discovered it in 1498; it remained uncolonized for more than a century. The French settled here in the 17th century, established sugar estates, and imported large numbers of African slaves. Britain took the island in 1762 and vigorously expanded sugar production. In the 19th century, cacao surpassed sugar as the main export crop; in the 20th century, nutmeg became the leading export. Britain gave Grenada autonomy over its internal affairs in 1967. Full independence was attained in 1974, making Grenada one of the smallest independent countries in the Western Hemisphere. Grenada was seized by a Marxist military council on 19 October 1983. Six days later the island was invaded by US forces and those of six other Caribbean nations, which quickly captured the ringleaders and their hundreds of Cuban advisers. Free elections were reinstituted the following year and have continued since that time. Hurricane Ivan struck Grenada in September of 2004 causing severe damage. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Temperatures at sea level range from 75ºF (November-February) to 85ºF (March-October). Cooler at higher altitudes. Dry season runs January-May; rainy season (June-December) rarely produces more than an hour of rain per day.

Ports of Entry: Many Cruise lines stop in St. George's (Grenada) or Hillsborough (Carriacou). International flights arrive at Point Salines International Airport. Numerous Marinas serve as centers for private sailboats to clear immigration/customs, dock & purchase supplies, and obtain service. Anchorage available in most inlets and bays.

Dress: Casual, light cottons during the day; elegantly casual attire at night. Bathing suits/mini shorts not appropriate on the streets or in restaurants. Long pants and hiking footwear suggested for trails. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block.

Driving: Can be tricky, as it follows the British system (driving on the left side of the road). You'll need a local permit, issued for a small fee by most car rental firms.

Voltage: Voltage is 220. US standard appliances (110-120 volts) will usually work fine with a transformer. Most hotels provide dual voltage shaver units, but an adaptor plug is necessary for small appliances.

Language: English is the official language, but you may encounter a musical French-African patois.

Tax & Tipping: An 8% government tax is applied in hotels and restaurants. Most also add a 10% service charge. Additional gratuities are up to you.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Geo Coordinates: 12 07 N, 61 40 W

Getting Married in Grenada: Visitors must be resident on the island for at least 3 days before applying for a license. On the third day an application for a Marriage License can be made in person at the Office of the Prime Minister. The license is usually ready in two working days. Bottom line: expect to be in Granada for 5 days before you can be married. Blood and/or medical tests not required. Be sure to bring the following documents for each of you, if applicable: valid passports; birth certificates; notarized affidavit that neither party has been previously married, or copies of a divorce decree for each divorced party, or a Death Certificate if a previous spouse is deceased; written parental consent in the form of a notarized Affidavit for each party under the age of 21. All documents must be in English or accompanied by an English translation.

What to buy: Batik and screen printed textiles, locally made handicrafts, leather goods, and wood carvings.

»» Back to Grenada on WGH.

 

Official Website: www.visitjamaica.com

CIA Background Notes: Discovered by Columbus in 1494, Jamaica was settled by Spain early in the 16th century. The native Taino Indians, who had inhabited the island for centuries, were gradually exterminated and replaced by African slaves. England seized the island in 1655 and a plantation economy—based on sugar, cocoa, and coffee—was established. The abolition of slavery in 1834 freed a quarter-million slaves, many of whom became small farmers. Jamaica gradually obtained increasing independence from Britain, and in 1958 joined other British Caribbean colonies in forming the Federation of the West Indies. Jamaica gained full independence when it withdrew from the Federation in 1962. Deteriorating economic conditions during the 1970s led to recurrent violence as rival gangs affiliated with the major political parties evolved into powerful organized crime networks involved in international drug smuggling and money laundering. The cycle of violence, drugs, and poverty has impoverished large sectors of the populace. Nonetheless, many rural and resort areas remain relatively safe and contribute substantially to the economy. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Jamaica has a tropical climate at sea level and a temperate climate in its mountainous interior, accounting for the big range in average daily temperature (66-99°F). Two rainy seasons (May-June, September-November). Hurricane season is June-September.

Ports of Entry: Two international airports—Norman Manley in Kingston and Sangster in Montego Bay; smaller airports in Ocho Rios and Kingston. Many Cruise lines stop in Jamaica's 3 ports of call: Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Port Antonio. Numerous Marinas serve as centers for private sailboats to clear immigration/customs, dock & purchase supplies, and obtain service. Anchorage available in many inlets and bays.

Dress: Casual, light cottons. Bring something casually elegant for fine restaurants. Large-brimmed hats and sunglasses are essential. Long pants and hiking footwear suggested for trails. Bring comfy walking shoes and lots of sun block. A light-weight raincoat is a good idea.

Driving: Can be tricky, as it follows the British system (driving on the left side of the road). You'll need a valid driver's license to rent a car. Roads can be rough with potholes, dotted with wandering chickens and goats, and the local drivers tend to be reckless. You must be 25 or older to rent a car.

Drugs: Every year people from around the world visit Jamaica and end up in jail because they've been caught buying, smoking, or in possession of (usually) marijuana. Despite what you might think, drug use here is illegal. Violators are subject to arrest, fine and imprisonment. The wise course: don't purchase, use, consume or transport drugs. If someone offers to sell you a joint, "just say no." You don't want to spend your honeymoon in the clinker, after all.

Voltage: Electrical outlets don't really have a standard here. Depending on your accommodations, you might be using 110 volts (as in the US) or 220 volts. Call your hotel, resort, or guest house ahead of time to see what the voltage is and—if it's not what you're used to—if they'll provide adapters and/or transformers.

Language: English is the official language, but you may also encounter a patois influenced by several different languages.

Tax & Tipping: No rhyme or reason to tipping policies in Jamaica. Some restaurants apply a 10-15% service fee on your final bill, but others don't. If you don't see such a fee, ask your server whether it's been included. The same lack of system applies to hotels: some add a service fee, others don't (so ask). Most all-inclusive hotels have a strict no-tipping policy (but ask to be sure). As for taxis—they're either non-metered or metered; it's best to workout a fee with your driver before you starting off, and a 10-15% tip is customary.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5 hours). Jamaica does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Geo Coordinates: 18 15 N, 77 30 W

Getting Married in Jamaica: Many resorts—especially the couples-only resorts—will arrange any kind of marriage ceremony you want, complete with photographer, a wedding cake, a lavish reception, and so on. You must arrive in the island at least 24 hours before the ceremony. Apply for your license in person at the Ministry of National Security and Justice in Kingston, and be sure to bring the appropriate paperwork (birth certificates, passports, and—if applicable—copies of divorce papers or a death certificate for a deceased spouse). Get all the details here.

»» Back to Jamaica on WGH

Official Website: www.martinique.org

Climate: Subtropical, with temperatures moderated by trade winds. Rainy season June-October. Hurricanes occur.

Ports of Entry: Lamentin International Airport, outside the capital of Fort-de-France, is served by many carriers. For yachties, ship ports are located all around the island; the largest marina is Port de Plaisance at Le Marin in the south. Cruise ships call at the capital.

Dress: Swimwear (going topless at the beach is common), light cotton clothing, sun hats, sunglasses, sun block. Long pants and hiking footwear suggested for trails. Bring comfy walking shoes. If you'll be eating in upscale restaurants, bring something casually elegant.

Driving: You'll need a valid driver's license to rent a car, and you must be 25 or older to do so. Driving is on the right side of the road, as in the US. Roads are well-maintained with good signage. In and around Fort-de-France you'll encounter heavy traffic and aggressive drivers.

Voltage: 220 volts/50 cycles—just like in France. US standard appliances (110 volts) will usually work fine with the right converter and/or transformer. Hotels sometimes lend such equipment, but it's best to come prepared.

Language: French. Also a Creole patois.

Tax & Tipping: Most restaurants add a 15% service charge; hotels usually add about 10%. Taxi drivers usually get a 10% tip. BTW, taxis taken between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. add a 40% surcharge.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). Martinique does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Geo Coordinates: 14 40 N, 61 00 W

Getting Married in Martinique: You’ll both need a one-month residence on Martinique before obtaining a marriage certificate. If you still want to forge ahead, you'll both need these documents to obtain your marriage license: a birth certificate (copies with a raised seal are accepted); a notarized document proving single status; a residency card proving that you’ve been on the island for at least a month; a medical certificate (with blood test) issued within three months of marriage; a French translations of all documents in another language.

What to buy: Madras dresses and shirts, Creole dolls, coconut candy, rum, coral jewelry, Parisian couture imports.

»» Back to Martinique on WGH.

 

Official Website: www.gotopuertorico.com

CIA Background Notes: Populated for centuries by aboriginal peoples, the island was claimed by the Spanish in 1493. In 1898, after 400 years of colonial rule that saw the indigenous population nearly exterminated and African slave labor introduced, Puerto Rico was ceded to the US after the Spanish-American War. Puerto Ricans were granted US citizenship in 1917. Popularly-elected governors have served since 1948. In 1952, a constitution was enacted providing for internal self government. In plebiscites held in 1967, 1993, and 1998, voters chose not to alter the existing political status. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical marine; mild. Temperature almost constant at about 80ºF. Situated inside the hurricane belt.

Terrain: Mostly mountainous with fertile coastal plains in the north; mountains to the sea on the west; sandy beaches along most coastal areas. Many small rivers.

Ports of Entry: A major port of call for airlines (Luis Munoz Martin International Airport, SJU) and almost every cruise line that works the Caribbean. San Juan Harbor is the fourth-busiest in the Western Hemisphere.

Dress: Light, loose cotton clothing is best. Swimwear is fine for the beach and leisure wear for resorts, but elsewhere a little dressing up is in order. Night time in San Juan is somewhat informal. Pack a sweater for mountain regions; bring sun block and walking shoes.

Driving: Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, as in the U.S.—but signs are in Spanish and distance markers in kilometers. Gas sold by the liter rather than the gallon. A valid driving license allows you to legally rent and drive a car.

Voltage: 110-120 AC, as in the U. S.

Language: Spanish (official). Most people also speak English.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: Puerto Rico has a 5.5% sales tax; municipalities may add additional sales tax; other small taxes may be imposed. Tipping in restaurants (15-20%) is customary.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Geo Coordinates: 18 15 N, 66 30 W

Getting Married in Puerto Rico: Information about obtaining a marriage license can be requested in writing from the Dept. of Health, Demographic Registry Office, Box 11854, Fernandez Juncos Station, Santurce, PR 00910 (allow 2 months) or call 787-728-7980.

Miscellaneous notes: Passports not required for US citizens.

What to Buy: Hammocks, Guitars, Rum, Cigars.

»» Back to San Juan/Puerto Rico on WGH

Official Website: www.stlucia.org

CIA Background Notes: With its fine natural harbor at Castries, St. Lucia was contested between England and France throughout the 17th and early 18th centuries. It changed possession 14 times, eventually being ceded to the UK in 1814. Even after the abolition of slavery on plantations in 1834, Saint Lucia remained agricultural. Self-government was granted in 1967 and independence in 1979. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; rainy season May-August.

Terrain: Volcanic and mountainous with some broad and fertile valleys.

Ports of Entry: A Two airports serve this small island: Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George Charles Airport (SLU). Cruise ships stop here, but it's not one of the popular destinations—which makes it nicer for those who have flown or sailed in on their own. St. Lucia is a popular yacht locale, and it's also a good place to find your own bareboat or crewed boat.

Dress: Light, loose cotton clothing is best, along with the usual good ideas in the tropics: sun block, a hat with a wide brim, a couple of bathing suits.

Driving: You'll need to obtain a local driving license (at the airport or at car rental agencies), and to obtain one you'll have to show a valid license from home. Driving is on the left side of the road, as in Britain.

Voltage: 220 volts, with most outlets needing a three-pronged device, so bring adapters and transformers for your appliances.

Language: English is the official language; a French patois is also spoken.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: Hotels here often add a 10 percent service charge and an 8 percent government accommodation tax—and may not include them in the quoted price for a room. Be sure to ask when booking, or you may be in for an unexpected surprise when you check out. Restaurants often add a 10% service charge—be sure to check your bill so that you don't tip twice.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). St. Lucia does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Geo Coordinates: 13 53 N, 60 58 W

Getting Married in St. Lucia: A marriage license in St. Lucia must be applied for by a local lawyer, which—together with other related fees—makes for an expensive license ($350-500, depending on your needs) compared to other Caribbean islands. Wedding planners abound, and they'll be happy to do the leg- and paperwork for you (at an additional cost, of course). As everywhere else, you'll need valid passports, birth certificates, divorce decree/death certificates for former spouses (if applicable), and consent from parents if under age 18. Find out more here.

What to buy: hand-screened batik clothing, hand-woven baskets, spices, wood carvings, pottery, banana catsup, Seventh Heaven liqueur.

»» Back to St. Lucia on WGH

Official Website: www.turksandcaicostourism.com

CIA Background Notes: The islands belonged to the UK's Jamaican colony until 1962, when they became a separate crown colony upon Jamaica's independence. The governor of The Bahamas oversaw affairs here from 1965 to 1973. With Bahamian independence, the islands received a separate governor in 1973. Although independence was agreed upon for 1982, the islands remain a British overseas territory. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Tropical, moderated by trade winds; sunny and relatively dry. Annual temperatures average between 80-95°F.

Terrain: Low, flat limestone; extensive marshes; mangrove swamps.

Ports of Entry: Most flights to the T&C Islands originate in the US and land at Providenciales International Airport (PLS). Few cruise ships stop here.

Dress: Light, loose cotton clothing is best, along with the usual good ideas in the tropics: sun block, a hat with a wide brim, a couple of bathing suits. Shorts are acceptable in most places, although upscale restaurants require more formality. During the winter months, bring a light jacket or sweater.

Driving: With a valid US license or International driver's license you are allowed to drive for 30 days in the Turks & Caicos. Driving is on the left side of the road, as in Britain; be particularly careful when entering roundabouts. The maximum speed on the island is a low-key 40 mph.

Voltage: 110-120 volts, same as in the US.

Language: English is the official language.

Taxes, Tipping, Other Fees: Tip as you would at home—15% for good service; a bit more for exceptional treatment. Some restaurants add a 10% service charge, so check before adding your tip. Taxis are owned by the driver, and there are no hard-fast rules about tipping—but if you're given exceptional service, reward it.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5 hours). The T&C Islands observe Daylight Savings Time.

Geo Coordinates: 21 45 N, 71 35 W

Getting Married in the Turks & Caicos: No long-term residency requirements. Licenses are issued at the office of the Registrar in Providenciales, open Monday-Friday. For details click here.

»» Back to the Turks & Caicos on WGH

Official Website: http://www.usvitourism.vi

CIA Background Notes: During the 17th century, the archipelago was divided into two sections: one English, the other Danish. Sugarcane, produced by slave labor, drove the islands' economy during the 18th and early 19th centuries. In 1917, the US purchased the Danish portion, which had been in economic decline since the abolition of slavery in 1848. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Subtropical, tempered by easterly trade winds, relatively low humidity. Temperatures range from the high 70s (fall-winter) to the high 80s (spring-summer). Dry season runs mid-December-September; rainy season (October to early December).

Terrain: Mostly hilly to rugged and mountainous, with little level land.

Ports of Entry: Most flights from the U. S. land at Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas; some flights also land at St. Croix's Rohlsen Airport. Cruise lines offer St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John as destinations. Marinas on each island are ready to serve private sailboats.

Dress: Casual, light cottons during the day; elegantly casual attire at night. Long pants and hiking footwear suggested for trails. Bring comfy walking shoes and sun block.

Driving: Follows customary US traffic standards and laws, but driving is on the left side of the road as in the British style. This can take some getting used to, so be careful.

Getting Around the Islands: High-speed ferries are a great way (and scenic) to move between the islands. Scheduled ferries run regularly between St. Thomas and St. John, and between St. Thomas and St. Croix. Seaplanes fly frequently throughout the day between St. Thomas and St. Croix (the trip is only 18 minutes long).

Voltage: 110/120 Volt AC, 60 Hz (same as the U.S.).

Language: English is the official language. A large percentage of residents also speak Spanish.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). Daylight Savings Time is not observed.

Geo Coordinates: 18 20 N, 64 50 W

Getting Married in the USVI: Download a brochure about getting married in the USVI and a marriage application here.

What to Buy: Duty-free clothing, jewelry, furniture, perfume, and exotic liqueurs.

»» Back to the USVI on WGH

Official Website: www.bvitourism.com/

CIA Background Notes: First inhabited by Arawak and later by Carib Indians, the Virgin Islands were settled by the Dutch in 1648 and then annexed by the English in 1672. The islands were part of the British colony of the Leeward Islands from 1872-1960; they were granted autonomy in 1967. The economy is closely tied to the larger and more populous US Virgin Islands to the west; the US dollar is the legal currency. »» More demographic, political, and statistical info

Climate: Subtropical, humid; temperatures moderated by trade winds.

Terrain: Relatively flat coral islands; volcanic; often steep and/or hilly.

Ports of Entry: These islands are paradise for sailboats and other yachts, and many people sail here from the US. Charters, crewed and bareboats can be rented. Many of the islands can only be reached by small boat.

Dress: Casual—light and airy cottons, linens, swimsuits. Long pants and hiking footwear suggested for trails. Comfy walking shoes, sandals, lots of sun block, wide-brimmed hats. Surf socks are a good idea, too.

Driving: Few tourists rent cars in the BVI, although they are available on the larger islands. If you do, be aware that driving is on the left side of the road, as in Britain. Right-of-way laws don't exist, livestock hang out on the roads, and locals drive with speed—so be careful. You'll need to obtain a local license from a car rental agency. Consider renting a moped or a bike. Ferries are plentiful and an easy way to visit other islands.

Getting Around the Islands: Virgin Gorda: taxis have no set rate—nail it down before you hop in. Busses are open-air affairs and don't stick to the schedule, or even the route; use them for fun, not for a serious trip across the island. ~ Tortola: Roads are steep. Main roads are paved and in good condition, but side roads are often unpaved and rough, so renting a 4-wheel drive is highly recommended if you're staying at an outlying villa or intend to explore.

Voltage: 110/120 Volt AC, 60 Hz (same as the U.S.).

Language: English is the official language. You'll hear occasional French, Spanish, and Creole.

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). Daylight Savings Time is not observed.

Geo Coordinates: 18 30 N, 64 30 W

Getting Married in the BVI: For information and current regulations about getting married in the British Virgin Islands, write to the Registrar's Office, Box 418, Road Town, Tortola, B.V.I.

What to buy: Hammocks, carvings made from mahogany and hibiscus wood, Caribbean spices, rum, works by local artists.

»» Back to Virgin Gorda & BVI on WGH

 

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