http://www.caribbean-island-hopping.com Caribbean vacation information for Caribbean vactions and holidays. Complete island guides. en-us Copyright 2012 Axses Systems Caribbean Inc. Wed, 16 May 2012 02:06:01 EST http://www.caribbean-island-hopping.com/images/carib/caribbean-hopping-logo.jpg http://www.caribbean-island-hopping.com Surely a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, a small island which offers total relaxation for those who seek it, families, honeymooners etc. Relax on the beaches or enjoy the various water related activities e.g. scuba diving,parasailing etc or take an art gallery tour, Museum tour or go birdwatching. When night falls there is lively tropical entertainment. For those who are looking for tranquillity, you are sure to find it here.

About Anguilla

Anguilla has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and many luxurious hotels have sprung up. Whether the beaches are used for swimming or simply relaxing or for the many water-related activities they draw the visitor to them. Birdwatching is a popular pastime as the island has a variety of beautiful birds. Art Galleries and studios are another drawing card for the visitor.

Beaches and beach related activities are the most popular activities. There is diving, fishing, glass bottom boat trips, parasailing, snorkling , to mention just a few of the great activities offered. Birdwatching, hiking, spa and wellness as well as variety of art gallery and museum tours offer the visitor further choices to explore.

About 4000 years ago the island was inhabited by Amerindians who came from S.America. By the fourth Century Amerindians of the Saladoid culture were settled there and there remains up to date evidence of their culture. Many artifacts have been found at 2 impressive cave sites. The island was then known as Malliouhana. European settlers later changed the name to Anguilla and the island changed hands between the French and British during the 1700's. During the 1800's the island developed a plantation economy. It was a part of the St.Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla union for many years,during the time of the Federation. Anguillans longed for more independence in their own affairs and on May 30, 1967 the Anguillan Revolution took place. Finally in December 19,1980 Anguilla became a separate dependent territory with some autonomy in Government. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:18:35 EST 365 beautiful beaches in Antigua ( one for each day of the year) will give you an indication of the popularity of this island for a vacation. Swimming with the dolphins, scuba diving , sailing—these are just a few of the activities to be enjoyed. The world famous English Harbor and Nelson’s Dockyard are of great historic interest and should be visited if possible. Cricket plays an important part in the lives of Antiguans, watch a game being played if possible. Enjoy exploring St. John’s –the capital of Antigua.

About Antigua

Antigua is blessed with beautiful beaches. In fact there are 365 beaches –one for each day of the year!!! All are open to the public. Eco tourism is becoming increasingly important Mangrove swamps are well worth visit and try to watch the many variety of birds. Take an eco tour off the beaten track. The beautiful ocean around the island makes yachting and many other water related activities popular. Antigua has several beautiful natural habors.

Lots to see and do in Antigua. Visting places of historical significance is a “ must do” for those interested in the country’s exciting past. For military buildings be sure to visit Shirley Heights, where in addition there is a magnificent view to be had. Go to the Nelson’s Dockyard at English Harbor for a fine experience of the naval history of the area. The old sugar plantations are worth a visit for example the famous Betty’s Hope Plantation. The beaches provide a never ending array of activities, yachting, kayaking, scuba diving etc and a Swim with the Dolphins is highly recommended. Many land based activites include hiking and birdwatching etc. Antigua has many excellent hotels and the after dark entertainment is recommended.

In the beginning Antigua was inhabited by the Ciboney Indians and later by the peaceful Arawaks and then by the war-like Caribs. Christopher Columbus discovered the island in 1493 but met resistance from the Caribs and it was not until 1632 that the first European settlement was established by Sir Christopher Codrington. Sugar then became the mainstay of the island and it was a vitally important sugar colony for the British. Because of it’s strategic position it was considered very important and was thought of as the “Gateway to the Caribbean”. Horatio Nelson became an important figure at this time and Nelson’s Dockyard remains today as a monument to his achievements. Naval battles made him a true heroic figure. Slavery was abolished in 1834 and unlike many of the other islands, the slaves were given immediate full emancipation. Today, the island is an Independent nation within the Commonwealth. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST Barbados is a small (166 sq miles) but beautiful island which attracts many visitors each year to it shores. This is an island with beautiful beaches, friendly people, much to see and do and a serene atmosphere.

About Barbados

Barbados is blessed with beautiful beaches, both on the calm West Coast and the rugged East Coast areas. There are several reefs, both natural and man-made, which attract the serious diver. While not having any spectacular mountain ranges, Barbados does have a diverse landscape, with the St.Andrew parish ( known as the Scotland District) having some attractive rock formations particularly along the shoreline. Harrisons Cave is one of Barbados's natural wonders with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The Atlantis Submarines provides a wonderful experience to enjoy the natural beauties of the waters around Barbados.

Barbados offers the visitor a variety of activities. There are the water based activities such as diving, fishing, other water sports ,coastal cruises, or just simply relaxing on the gorgeous beaches. Be sure to visit Harrisons Cave, a natural wonder, also the Flower Forest and Orchid World to see the flora of the island. If you are a golfer there are several golf courses for your enjoyment. Cricket lovers can watch the local matches or visit Barbados when International matches are being played. Take a trip on the Atlantis submarine and enjoy the natural beauty of the waters around the island. There is something to please visitors of all age groups.

Barbados became an Independent nation within the Commonwealth in 1966. Originally occupied by Arawaks and Caribs, and later visited by the Portuguese and Spanish, it was colonised by the English in 1625 and remained under British rule until 1966. It was a valuable colony because of it's fine sugar cane production. Slaves brought from Africa and indentured servants from Britain worked on the many plantations. Slavery was abolished in the 1800's and the importance of sugar declined. Today tourism is Barbados' main industry.

More info. at http://www.bookingsbarbados.com ]]> http://www.bookingsbarbados.com?source=general tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST
About Bequia

Beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, laid back atmosphere, attractive harbors frequented by visiting yachtsmen, these are just a few of the natural delights in Bequia. Great Diving sites for the enthusiast.

Although the island is small, there are several attractive small hotels and guest house. Many diving sites exist e.g a visit to the wreck of the Lireco shows how all sorts of marine life exists there. Hire a taxi and let them take you on a round the island tour.Relax on the many beaches, visit the whale museum. Explore the island on foot, see the coconut plantation at Hope Bay and 200 old sugar plantation at Spring Bay. Be sure to look for the model boats which are made by the islanders and offered for sale at the various craft stores. The small island offers a variety of activities.

French and British fought over the island for over 200 years in the 17th and 18th century, finally became a part of St.Vincent in 1762 and in 1763 they both were seceded to Britain. Many English settlers came to the island and sugar cane was grown using slave labor. One of the best known settlers were the Wallace family who were from Scotland and founded the whaling industry. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST Eco tourism reigns in this mountainous island and for those with adventure in mind it is perfect. It has been called the Nature Island of the Caribbean and with its many rivers and unspoilt beauty, there are many activities such as hiking, exploring the nature trails, whale watching, exploring the natural beauty of the rain forests etc. Spectacular scenery and an opportunity to be at one with nature.

About Dominica

Known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean Dominica is a haven for those who enjoy the wonders of nature, and wish to enjoy a vacation in a truly unspoilt setting. There are 365 rivers ( one for each day of the year) and unspoilt rainforests. Morne Trois Piton National Park has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1997. >> Dominica

For the nature lover there is plenty to see and do. Hiking tours to the rainforest can be arranged and The Rain Forest Aerial Tram ride which offers you an exciting view of the flora and fauna from a Canopy gondola should not be missed. Visit the Boiling Lake or climb Mount Diablotin. Experience Dominica Carnival and during October 2004 there is the World Creole Music Festival. There are also traditional village feasts which take place year around. Whale watching is another popular activity and there is also kayaking, sports fishing and boating and scuba diving.Cycling the rough terrain is another experience to be enjoyed. And after the sun sets enjoy the night life in the clubs and bars. Dominica

Dominica - Originally occupied first by the Caribs and Arawaks in the 14th century, it was discovered by Columbus in 1493. The island changed hands between France and England several times until 1805 when it remained in the possession of the British until 1978 when it became an independent republic with the Commonwealth. Dominica has a rich culture with the blend of influences from the Caribs, French, English and African peoples. >> Dominica

More info. at http://www.bookingsdominica.com ]]> http://www.bookingsdominica.com?source=general tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:19:21 EST Isle of Spice as it is called because of the many spices produced here, it offers a variety of experiences. Famous for its wonderful beaches such as Grande Anse and the sheer beauty of the mountains, Grenada is perfect for family, couples, adventurers alike. The capital St.Georges with its horse shoe shaped harbour is a place of beauty. The beautiful Grenadine islands are within easy reach and the diving experiences are spectacular.

About Grenada

The "Isle of Spice" as it is called because of the importance of the spice trade to the island has an abundance of natural beauty. The famous Grande Anse Beach - two miles of beautiful sand is world famous. The mountainous volcanic terrain has created crater lakes and there is a variety of plant and animal life in the dwarf forests. The Grand Etang Lake and Forest Reserve is not to be missed. Beautiful waterfalls,boiling springs, sites of Amerindian remains, all of these are but a few of the wonderful natural attractions of the island. La Sagresse Nature Centre shows the diverse birdlife of the salt ponds and mangrove swamps.Grenada has two sister islands - Carriacou which has fine beaches and scenery, and Petite Martinque which is much smaller and is only recently being developed.

Many places of historical interest provide the visitor with a insight into the past of the island. Fort George near the capital is a fine example of military power, the town of St.George's with its fine natural harbor is well worth exploring. Visit the Cathedrals, the Carenage, the Market Square, Bay Gardens among other places. Further afield, a visit to the Grand Etang Lake and Forest Reserve is a fascinating experience. Nature centres and trails appeal to the nature lover. Visit the spice estates and the other smaller towns such as Gouyave. The beaches are perfect for relaxation and there are many related activities e.g. yachting, scuba diving etc. Walking and hiking is also popular and there is also golf,tennis etc, particularly at the hotels.

Grenada's early history follows the pattern of many of the other West Indian islands. Occupied first by Carib Indians and discovered by Columbus in 1498 who named the island "Concepcion". The Caribs stoutly resisted the efforts of the European powers to colonise the island. In 1650 after the Caribs suffered losses at the hands of the French, many leapt to their death rather than live under French domination. Even though the English regained control of the island, the French influence remains to this day in place names etc. In 1783 The British gained control of the island and sugar was established as the main source of revenue. Slaves from Africa worked the plantations, and in 1795 under the leadership of Julian Fedon they revolted against the system. Grenada was a part of the ill fated Federation of the West Indies during the late 50's/early 60's and today is an independent nation within the Commonwealth ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:21:43 EST
About Nevis

Nevis is famous for it’s wildlife. It has a wide variety of birds and is considered a premier birding spot. Several species of bats have been identified here and whale watching is an awesome experience. Sea turtles of several varieties abound in the seas and scuba diving is a popular sport enabling one to see the wonder of the seas off Nevis. Nature trails abound and hiking is popular with the visitor. On such hikes one can be exposed to a variety of medicinal plants which are popularly used on the island. Of course, Nevis is famous for its central peak soaring to 3,500 in height and which was the first sight to catch Columbus’s eye. The clouds on top of the mountain reminded him of snow and he called the island “Nieves”

Because of its’s colourful historical past, many of Nevis’s attractions are of a historical nature for instance the Hamilton Estate, the Church where Admiral Horatio Nelson married etc. Several museums such as the Horatio Nelson museum should be visited and the capital Charlestown is a charming reminder of an era past.Several old plantation houses and estates with interesting stories to be told about them are worth visiting, and a variety of old and interesting churches abound. The beaches and wildlife and nature attractions are also a drawing card for the visitor.

Nevis is well known as the birthplace of the celebrated American, Alexander Hamilton and was also the island where Admiral Nelson married Frances Nesit. In common with many of the islands Nevis was originally occupied by the Arawaks and Caribs and later discovered by Columbus in 1493. Later it became a source of conflict between the French and English. In 1783 it became a British possession. Became independent on September 19th 1983 and is linked with St. Kitts in a Federation. It is known as the Queen of the Caribees. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST
About St. Croix

St.Croix has a variety of beaches. Buck Island is a premier diving spot and is a underwater national park and Salt River where Columbus landed is another attraction of note. There is a fine tropical rain forest 15 acres in all which is open for the public to enjoy. Estate St George Botanical Garden covers 16 acres and there you can see ruins of a 19th century sugar cane village and rum factory

Although it is only 82 sq miles there is much to see and do. Visit Buck Island underwater park and Salt River to see where Columbus landed. Enjoy the 15 acres Tropical Rain Forest and nearby Whim Great House where you will see how the greathouses on the 1700's looked. The well know "Eye to the Sky" project is well worth a visit - there a 260 ton dish is used to explore the universe. See the Rum Distillery, The Botanic Garden etc. In the town of Christiansted soak up the historic sites, such as the Steeple Building, Government House, fort and many interesting churches. See the famous Outdoor Market. In the town of Fredericksted see Fort Frederick, the Old Danish School and the Roman Catholic church. Beach activities and sports are also popular and the many hotels provide a variety of after dark entertainment.

St.Croix has had an eventful history. First it was occupied by the Arawaks and Caribs with the latter being the most powerful. Columbus came to the island in 1493 and there began almost a century of conflict between the Spaniards and the Caribs on the island. By the early 1600's there were both Dutch and English settlements on the island, which caused much strife and the Spanish also tried to maintain control of it during 1650. The following year the French entered the scene and controlled the island for a short time but many of them died and their dominance was short lived. Ten years later the Governor of St. Kitts bought the island as his private estate and later deeded it to the Knights of Malta who had little experience in management. In 1665 the island was bought by the French West Indian Company and thrived under Governor Dubois. After his death in 1695 St.Croix became practically abandoned until 1733 when the French sold the island to Danish West India and Guinea company. Once again the island thrived and sugar became the main stay of the economy. The Dutch encouraged immigrants from many countries who contributed greatly to its development. When sugar production declined because of the availability of beet sugar in Europe, the slaves rioted - The Fireburn of 1878. Denmark sold the islands to the US Government in 1917 and St.Croix, along with St.Thomas and St. John , is now a U.S.territory. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:24:11 EST
About St. Kitts

St Kitts has an extinct volcano which dominates its landscape, rising 3,792 feet in the air - Mount Liamuiga. Basseterre the island's capital retains much of it's old world charm with elegant buildings-remnants of it's British heritage and French colonial interest. St.Kitts because of its unspoilt nature is a perfect eco tourism destination. Because of the importance of sugar to the island's prosperity in the past the old plantation houses and sugar mills remain an attraction. The beaches and water related activities are also a drawing point.

Be sure to take a trip on the St.Kitts Scenic Railway which offers a comfortable ride around the island, allowing one to see the glories of the past when sugar was king, travelling along the original railway which was used to transport sugar. Visit the many historical sites such as Brimstone Hill, the fortresses, the old sugar plantations. The beaches provide a wealth of water related activites and for the more adventurous there is hiking and and mountain climbing and discovering the many native plants which are used for medicinal purposes on the island. A variety of experiences await the traveller in St.Kitts

Originally occupied by the Arawaks and Caribs it was discovered by Christopher Columbus and it was originally named St. Christopher.In 1623 the British colonised the island with the arrival of Thomas Warner. It became a source of conflict between the French and British until 1783 when it was permanently returned to the British.St. Kitts is rich in history. The fortress at Brimstone Hill was regarded as the Rock of Gibraltar for the islands and remains as a reminder of the struggles of the past between the foreign powers. St.Kitts ( along with Nevis) because of its exceptional wealth, derived from sugar, and strategic position made it a key figure in the struggles between the European powers at that time. St.Kitts became independent in September 1983 and is in a federation with Nevis, it remains a part of the Commonwealth. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:26:04 EST Famous for its annual Jazz Festival St. Lucia offers a get away for family, couples and honeymooners alike. Enjoy the unspoilt beauty, visit the famous drive in volcano and see the bountiful fields of bananas. St.Lucia has a variety of accomodation from the all inclusives to the simple bed and breakfast type lodging. Castries is well worth exploring and the French influence on the island provides interesting architectural styles and customs.

About St. Lucia

St. Lucia is certainly a place of natural beauty. It has been called the Helen of the West Indies. There is the drive in volcano at Soufriere and the majestic Pitons, the Grand Piton and Petit Piton which tower over 2,000 feet straight from the sea, a majestic sight indeed (this is now a WORLD HERITAGE SITE). St.Lucia is known for its eco tourism product and has interesting rainforests where such species as parrots, lizards etc abound. Hiking trips can be arranged to various area, or there are the many beautiful beaches such as Reduit, in Rodney Bay, and the close by Pigeon Island which is now joined to the mainland.

Exploring the island can be great fun. Stops should be made to the drive in volcano in Soufriere and along the way the Pitons will be viewed and definitely make an impression on the mind. If you are in the island in May you must go to the St. Lucia Jazz Festival which has become world famous over the years. St.Lucia is a haven for yachtsmen and the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers which takes place in November from Gran Canaria and arrives in St. Lucia in December. The Rodney Bay Marina welcomes the many boats which have travelled across the Atlantic. The luxurious hotels with their attractive beaches and after dark entertainment should lure the visitor to this island.

The island, like many others in the Caribbean, were originally inhabited by the Caribs and Arawaks and was known as Hewanorra.By the 1600's a tug of war struggle between the British and French for the possession of the island took place and in fact the island changed hands no less than 14 times! In 1814 it was finally seceded to the British but the French influence has remained to this day in the culture and language of the island. St.Lucia was a member of the illfated British Federation of the 60's but like in most of the islands the desire for independence prevailed and on February 22,1979 St,Lucia became a fully independent country but remains a part of the British Commonwealth.

More info. at http://www.bookingsstlucia.com ]]> http://www.bookingsstlucia.com?source=general tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST Divided between the French and the Dutch and while each section retains its uniqueness, there is a marvelous harmony between the two. The French side offer great shopping, excellent cuisine and secluded beaches-----a Gaelic experience. The Dutch side is more informal and is a busy cruise port and is bustling with activity. A perfect marriage of cultures, the visitor will find much to see and do. Explore the island, visit the sites of interest, enjoy relaxing on the beaches or participate in activity such as sailing, diving and deep sea fishing. Best of two worlds!!!

About St. Maarten

Beautiful beaches abound and are the main attraction. Both the Dutch and French sides have a variety of gorgeous beaches. On the French East Coast there is the Butterfly farm. Also interesting is the Pic Du Paradis in the French Mountains, a blend of farmland and forest which make it perfect for hiking.Beautiful reefs underwater such as the Green Key Barrier Reef which offers beautiful views ( this is on the French side of the island) . One of the most famous scuba diving spots is Proselyte Reef where the coral built up on a sunken 200 year old frigate makes it most attractive for the underwater enthusiast

Scuba diving to the many underwater reefs etc is a very popular activity. Trips to neighbouring islands is very popular with the visitor. Casino gambling is legal on the Dutch side and is a major drawing card for that part of the island. Carnival is celebrated in both parts of the island and participating in this can add spice to your vacation. Duty free shopping makes St. Martin a shoppers delight and the main towns are well worth a visit. There is one excellent golf course at Mullet Bay Resort, but serious golfers can take a side trip to one of the neighbouring islands where there are several golf courses. Lots to see and do in St. Martin and it is fascinating to be able to experience the two cultures so easily. Be sure to visit the many excellent restaurants particularly the French cuisine.

First occupied by the Arawaks and Caribs, Columbus claimed the island for Spain in 1493, although he never landed there himself. Although the Spanish owned the island they took little interest and it used by the Dutch as an outpost, while a group of French settlers set up a colony also. The Spanish, then realising the importance of the island expelled the Dutch in the early 17th century. However the Dutch and French persisted in their efforts to retain control in the island, finally the Spanish gave up and in 1648 a treaty was signed dividing the island between France which gained 21 sq miles, and the Netherlands which got the remaining 16 sq miles. However, because of many disputes, the present day borders were not established until 1817. African slaves were brought over and a plantation based economy prevailed until slavery was abolished. Today the island has a thrieving tourist industry and the Dutch and French sides exist peacefully together. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST one of the US Virgin Islands. Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Only 33 sq miles it can be easily explored by bus, car, by foot ( uphill in many parts) or take a helicopter ride to take in the spectacular beauty of the island. Be sure to visit Drakes Seat where Sir Francis Drake is said to have sat and counted his ships. Check out the shopping in the historic downtown area for many bargains in crystal, jewellery, cameras etc.

About St. Thomas

St.Thomas is an island with much natural beauty and its famous harbor, which plays hosts to several visiting yachts, is one of the main attractions. Delightful beaches abound and there is much water based activity. Scuba diving, yachting etc to mention just a few of the popular activities. Also, within easy reach are the other members of the USVI and it is recommended that one take a ferry and explore the sister islands. There is an excellent underwater park and there one can see the beauty from beneath the seas. There are several species of beautiful birds and flora and fauna. Exotic plants, fruits and flowers, and such interesting fauna such as mongoose and iguana make for some interesting discoveries.

The capital Charlotte Amalie is a charming town with great shopping and has buildings of historic interest. Well worth exploring. Yachting, scuba diving, and other water based activites are in abundance. There is the famous St. Thomas Skyride which is a cable car similar to a sky lift and which takes its passengers up to 700 feet in the air where they can experience a panoramic view of the harbor, neighbouring islands etc. Be sure to visit the Coral World Marine Park for an interesting experience. Much to see and do in St. Thomas. Go visit the other USVI while you are there.

A member of the U.S. Virgin islands St. Thomas has an interesting history. First occupied by Taino Indians from South America it was visited by Columbus in 1493. The Virgin Islands were named after St. Ursula and her 11,000 virgins. St.Thomas was bought by the Danish government in 1733 from the Dutch West India Company and remained under Danish rule until 1917 when it was bought by the American Government as a safeguard during World War I. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST St.Vincent offers a variety of experiences for the traveller---hiking, nature trails and expeditions to many of the beautiful unspoilt areas, diving , beaches and, if time permit, a visit to the neighbouring Grenadine islands is well worthwhile. For the less adventurous, the capital of Kingstown with its famous Botanic Gardens as well as other areas of historic interest such as Ft.Charlotte offers the visitor a chance to get a birds eye view of the history of the island and enjoy the shopping offered.

About St. Vincent and The Grenadines

St.Vincent has much natural beauty. The majestic Soufriere Volcano in the North of the island , the many waterfalls and nature trails to the magnificent forested areas are but a few of the attractions which beckon the nature lover. The Owia Salt Pond-a huge bathing pool surrounding by lava peaks and ridges, is worth a visit. The famous Falls of Baleine, another attraction. Below the sea there is a real opportunity for the diver to explore and enjoy. St.Vincent is the jumping off point for visits to the Grenadines and attracts many yachts to its shores. The Botanic Gardens in Kingstown is one of the best in the world. Famous for its parrots, birdwatching is also popular

Diving, Yachting, trips to the other Grenadine islands. Exploring the unspoilt country side preferably by organised tour groups with hardy vehicles. The capital Kingstown has many beautiful churches and cathedrals, in fact the main Methodist, Anglican and Roman Catholic churches are within walking distance from each other.The famous Botanical Gardens, Fort Charlotte overlooking the Kingston Harbor are within easy reach. A visit to neighbouring Young Island some yards off shore St.Vincent shores is suggested. Eco-adventures are recommended.

The Caribs originally called the island "Hairoun" Land of the Blessed.Like most of the other West Indian islands St.Vincent was first occupied by the Ciboney from S.America. Later the peaceful Arawaks found their way to St.Vincent as well as the Caribs who were of a warlike nature and played in great part in the history of early St.Vincent. Because of their resistance St.Vincent was not colonised very early by the Europeans. In 1635 African slaves arrived in St.Vincent and merged with the Caribs. Known as the Black Caribs they took the side of the French rather than the British and were involved in the struggles between the two. In 1795 there was the Second Carib War and there the exploits of Chatoyer made him a hero, he was eventually killed but a monument to his memory remains on Dorchester Hill. Forts such as Fort Charlotte remain also, a remainder of the struggles of the past. St.Vincent became independent in October 1979. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:26:57 EST Land of Turtle Doves as it is called is the largest of the British Virgin Islands. RoadTown –the capital has a scenic harbor which is usually filled with yachts. Cuisine in Tortola is excellent with many choices, with such dishes as fresh lobster, conch, turtle etc. Shoppers will find bargains in perfume, jewellery and Wedgewood china as well as many local products such as silk screened fabrics. The rest of the BVI are in easy reach should you wish to explore further.

About Tortola

Tortola is a quiet unspoilt paradise with much natural beauty.Beautiful sandy beaches abound and there is an area of original rain forest at Mount Sage National Park. Road Town ( the capital) is a haven for many yachts. Tortola can also be used for a jumping off point for visiting some of the other BVI for instance Virgin Gourda. Tortola is known as the “Land of Turtles Doves”.

Beach related activities are popular. The Botanic Gardens in Road Town are well worth a visit, as well as an expedition to the Mount Sage National Park. Museums, old forts and sugar mills provide an insight into Tortola’s past. Trips by ferry to some of the other BVI is another opportunity to explore further. Shopping in Road Town can be an exciting experience with offerings from Tortolan craftsman or duty free shopping for such delights as perfume,jewellery and Wedgewood china.

Tortola is a part of the British Virgin Islands and is governed by a British appointed leader.The first inhabitants of the island were the Ciboney and later the Arawaks and Caribs. In 1493 Columbus discovered the islands and named them after the ll,000 virgins of St.Ursula. Famous pirates like Bluebeard and Capt.Kidd were involved in the plunder of Spanish galleons –in fact Tortola has a romantic history of it’s own. Sugar production dominated the island until the 1800’s. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:38 EST A cosmopolitan island with a charm of its own. Bustling Port of Spain is a hive of activity ---a visit to Frederick Street with its many quaint shops and wayside vendors is a great experience. A trip to the famous Maracas Bay is well worth well and Chaguaramus ( site of the former US Naval Base) with its charming marina are among the places of interest. A trip to neighbouring Tobago, either by ferry or air, is advised if time permits. An excellent Zoo is within easy distance from the capital. A variety of experiences await the visitor.

About Trinidad and Tobago

While its sister island Tobago is better known as a tourist destination, Trinidad has several well know natural attractions. Eco tourism is becoming increasingly popular and the natural flora and fauna, in particular the wide variety of bird life, provides much attraction to the nature lover. The northern coast with its famous Maracas Bay and less known but very attractive Las Cuevas is well worth the trip across the rugged terrain. Further south there is the famous La Brea Pitch Lake. Caroni and Nariva swamps with their variety of wildlife, the birdbreeding at Pointe-a-Pierre Wildlife grounds are among the attractions for the nature lover.

Port of Spain the island's capital is a fascinating place to explore. The Savannah where the world famous Carnival takes places each year is the focal point of many activities and there are many historic houses and buildings near by which are well worth visiting. The famous Emperor Valley Zoo is close to town and is excellent. The next door Botanic Gardens is also with in easy reach. Visit Chaguaramus ( site of a former American Naval Base) where there is a yacht haven and military museum. Venture further afield to the North to Maracas and stop for "a shark and bake".Further on there is Las Cuevas which is well worth a stop. Shopping in Port of Spain can be fascinating and there are several N. American type malls outside the city. Visit the Asa Wright Centre for an ecotourism experience. If you are lucky to get down South visit the famous La Brea Pitch Lake. A variety of island tours can be arranged at the hotels.

Trinidad was originally occupied by Amerindians from South America. It was discovered by Columbus in 1498 and claimed for the Spanish. Many French planters also settled there and in 1797 the British invaded and claimed the island. Slaves from Africa worked on the plantations until the slave trade was abolished, then indentured workers from India were brought over to Trinidad. Meanwhile, many Portuguese and Chinese also became part of the work force, and today Trinidad remains a truly multi-ethnic island. In the early 20th the discovery of oil paved the way for the nation's prosperity today. During World Ward 11 the Americans established several bases in Trinidad under an agreement with the British. Trinidad was a part of the ill fated West Indies Federation and attained independence from Britain in 1962. With its sister island of Tobago it became a Republic since 1976. ]]> tech@axses.com (Axses Systems Caribbean Inc.) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:28:30 EST