Fun Friday
Good Morning we have made it through another week and now it's time to go on our weekly Friday adventure. Today we are going to go on a tropical vacation and visit the Caribbean Islands
1.) Old San Juan This historic area in San Juan exudes old-world charm. Walk along the cobbled streets and past colorful buildings, historic fortresses, and old city walls, some of which date back to the 16th century. You might even chance upon local musicians playing some salsa or jazz tunes. There are also several museums where you can learn more about the history, art, and culture of the area, plus cool cocktail bars and restaurants for a quintessentially Puerto Rican meal. Don't miss all the best sights (and food!) on a walking tour of Old San Juan
2.) Bavaro Beach Relax on the spotlessly white sand and swim in the clear waters of Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana, a popular resort town where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and taste the mouth-watering Dominican food. Take a boat tour of Bavaro to snorkel among the reefs and discover the natural pools on the eastern edge of the beach. You can book a seafront resort (many of which have casinos on site) to make the most of your trip. Visit the water parks in the area to play and swim with dolphins in the open sea.
3.) Hunte's Gardens located in Saint Joseph Parrish hours of operation are 10-4pm You might hear this garden before you see it, its delightfully eccentric owner, Anthony Hunte BCH, plays classical music throughout the garden. This is the working end of old Castle Grant plantation, where sugar cane was once processed into syrup. Step through the gate and you'll soon tread on the old weighbridge, where loads of cane were tallied. Just past the old stone outbuildings, where statues lurk among exotic plants, you'll find yourself on the lip of a great, hemispherical sinkhole in the limestone substrate. Steps lead down and paths branch out through an exquisite profusion of flowering plants, with towering trees around the edges. Both here and farther along the top are a series of small secret gardens, where you can sit to absorb the serenity and enjoy a picnic. Be sure to climb the upper level steps to Mr. Hunte's house, a transformation of the old stables. He'll invite you for refreshments-including his legendary rum punch or freshly made lemonade (for sale).
4.) Cayman Crystal Caves Cayman Crystal Caves is a fascinating nature attraction located in Northside, Grand Cayman, and Cayman's newest tourist attraction. When you visit Cayman Crystal Caves, you will be escorted with a knowledgeable Tour Guide, and join us on an adventure exploration of "Cayman Down Under". You will venture into amazing caves where you'll see stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures and otherworldly formations, formed by single drops of water and the slow passage of time. Tour through the unique rainforest nature, under which the caves formed. Amongst the forest and caves is plenty of plant and animal life including strangler fig trees, air plants, parrots, and bats.... History Cayman Crystal Caves have formed over millions of years. Fossilized shells and animal life in the caves show us that at one time, the mass now containing the caves was all located under the sea. Over time, as sea levels changed and land began to rise, rooms began to form through water erosion, making caves. Within these rooms spectacular stalagmite and stalactite crystal structures began to form, as rain water dripping through the limestone ceiling of the caves left calcium deposits behind. The caves are still today continuing to evolve. The process of stalagmite and stalactite formation occurs as rain water becomes slightly acidic when it first travels through surrounding plants, earth and other organic matter. This acidic water dissolves part of the limestone as it seeps through the earth, and re-deposits microscopic calcium layers, as the water drips from the cave ceilings. Over time these deposits collectively form the crystal structures. Hundreds of years ago, Pirates used these caves as hideouts, and also as shelters from the elements, including hurricanes. As the Cayman Islands became populated, locals used the surrounding lush lands as farmlands, and mined the caves for rich fertilizer produced by bat guana, as some of the caves are inhabited by bats. In the last half century farming stopped, as the population switched to more lucrative jobs within the tourism and financial sectors. In the early 1990s, Christian and Ole Sorensen undertook an in depth search and exploration of all caves in the Cayman Islands, and began talks with the Cayman Islands government on developing a cave attraction based on the experience from the family's development of the very successful Harrison's caves in Barbados. After a few years, it was realized that the crystal caves of Old Man Bay were extremely unique and stood above any other caves in the Cayman Islands, and for that matter, most of the world. It took almost another two decades to purchase the various parcels which encompasses the caves and surrounding rain forest, as well as devise a route to the landlocked and together they have seen Cayman's newest and very exciting tourist site from the main road. In the last few years of planning the attraction, Ergun Berksoy and the Berksoy family, who have vast experience in the tourism sector, joined the Sorensen family in this venture attraction to completion.
5.) ABC Tours Aruba hours of operation are 7-10pm In 2023, ABC Tours Aruba, a treasured local family enterprise, is beaming with pride as we celebrate our third consecutive year among the illustrious Best of the Best in the World, an honor that places us in the top 1% of 8 million global experiences. Our enthralling Natural Pool and Indian Cave Jeep Safari has earned the #4 spot in Worldwide Family-Friendly Must-Do Experiences. Moreover, our Island Ultimate Jeep Safari has been recognized as #5 in Worldwide Top Bucket List Experiences, #1 in Caribbean Top Overall Experiences, and #19 in Worldwide Must-Do Experiences. Additionally, ABC Tours has been lauded as the #1 Overall Experience in Aruba. These accolades are a reflection of the unwavering support from our valued guests and the tireless dedication of our native Aruban tour guides, sales team, restaurant staff, and engineers. Our founders, Marvin and Sharla, along with the entire ABC Tours family, extend their heartfelt gratitude for these honors.
6.) Horseback Riding St. Croix with Equus Rides Equus Rides offers a unique horseback riding experience on St. Croix's magnificent north shore. Join The Cane Bay Cowboy, Stephen O'Dea, and his team of experienced guides. Ride trails to hilltops with breathtaking views. Mosey or canter along a beautiful beach. Finally, experience the ultimate... A swim in the Caribbean Sea on horseback! Equus Rides caters to riders of all levels. We also have horses available for private parties and wedding ceremonies. Happy Trails!
7.) Flavors Food Tours - San Juan Eat. Drink. Explore! Think Outside the Beach: Puerto Rico’s official culinary walk and rum cocktail experiences in the heart of Old San Juan. Join us for Puerto Rico's original food tour of Old San Juan or a boozy exploration of its cobblestoned streets on our craft cocktail tour. Your local guide will explore history, culture and architecture while you sip on mojitos and enjoy Puerto Rican staples. We've been featured on CNN, the BBC, USA Today, Lonely Planet, and are ranked #1 food and walking tour in Old San Juan – trust you’re with the pros.
8.) Tree Limin' Extreme Zipline hours of operation are Tue- Sat 9-5pm Tree Limin' Extreme is the first and only zipline tour in St Thomas! With hours of excitement and amazing views of the islands, we have six ziplines, two foot bridges, and eight aerial tree platforms. Kick back and relax with professionally trained tour guides that set you up for your wild adventure to fly through the canopy!
9. ) Copperstone located in Willemstad Copperstone is the only souvenir store you need to visit when you are on the island!We are a mother and daughter team, who try to bring you something different than the average souvenir. Home to Curacao's official cat Skadey too! Skadey is the Prime Minister's favorite- he loves cats. Ask for Melissa - the artist and creator of Skadey, and Hema the one behind the most creative souvenirs you will find. Family owned, each corner is filled with love, care and amazing prices. Wholesalers to a great deal of stores, we've got the best prices and variety! Exclusive retailers of Dhan Arts Paintings and Souvenirs. Located in Punda on the same street as the Synagogue, look for two huge cats painted by Melissa. Skadey and Ringo - you can even pose for selfies with them! Hope to see you soon!
10.) Old Cars Havana Winner of the "Luxury Travel Guide Award 2021/22" in the category "City Tour Company of the Year". Winner of the "International Travel Award 2020" for the "Best Tourism Development Project in Cuba". Winner of the "Travel & Hospitality Award 2018" for the "Local Experience of the Year 2018 in Cuba". Old Car Havana offers classic car tours in Havana and from Havana to Playa del Este Santa Maria, Varadero, Vinales, Las Terrazas and Zapata National Park (Bay of Pigs). Our company has only the best classic cars in its portfolio. We have classic cars from 1935 to 1960. Our brands: BUICK, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, DODGE, Chrysler, Plymouth, Pontiac and Studebaker. On request for the trips accompanied by a tour guide. Tour guides for: English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Turkish and Japanese.
11.) Havacubvision located in Valdero Havacubvision, is a group of friends in Varadero that arranges private and personalized excursions in American Classic Cars from the 50s and minivans or minibuses, including as well professional tour guides services in English, French and German, into the most historical and recognized places in Cuba such as : Havana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos and Bay of Pigs in Matanzas
12.) Birdwatching & Nature Tours Aruba located in Oranjestad Private Birdwatching and Nature tours.
Due to my personal affection for birds and knowledge of the island, I specialized in birdwatching, photography and nature tours. As important, my service’s philosophy is to raise public perception of the value of Aruba’s natural environments and to help preserve them for future generations. Email me at birdwatchingaruba@gmail.com for a quote. Michiel
13.) Cave Tours Bonaire located in Kralendijk Cave Tours Bonaire offers exciting tours in the beautiful caves in the karst of Bonaire. Our tours involve underground snorkeling and we give insight into the precious and delicate nature of the caves. Our guides are members of CARIBS and we are strongly committed to maintaining high levels of safety.
14.) Atabey Tours Our mission is to reconnect our fellow travelers to the true source of life through Atabey (Mother Earth) and to have the most EPIC & FUN adventure in Puerto Rico. We are the ultimate off the beaten path private ecotours explorers. Come discover the secrets of El Yunque Rainforest, deserted beaches, Afro-Puerto Rican food and culture, alternative Old San Juan, gaping caves, Taíno Indian petroglyphs, visit an organic farm, Coffee Plantation, play in natural river water slides, experience Roots Salsa and Boricua Music, bathe in wild waterfalls and mystic mountain rivers; Experience Puerto Rico like a local…
15.) Bon Sea Bonaire located in Kralendijk The Bon Sea is a spacious, air-conditioned semi-submarine that will partially submerge itself in the crystal clear waters of Bonaire to provide you with breathtaking views of some of the most diverse marine life that you’ll find anywhere in the world.
16.) St Lucia Photo Tours Passion and Art of Photography come alive when you connect with us. Whether it’s a Photo Tour, a Vacation Photo Shoot or even your Wedding Photography we look forward to wowing you. You see we revel in photography and can hardly wait to have you join us for what we hope will be one of your most amazing photography experiences ever. For a St Lucia Photo Tour - if you have a Digital SLR, a Mirrorless or Bridge Camera you will love this tour if you mostly shoot in Auto but know you could do so much more. If you are already a boss with your camera you will love this tour too as we go deep - real deep. And if you sign up for a photo shoot you’ll be in for a really special treat as we feed off your energy, mix it up with ours then bounce it right back at you for a photo session that many have told us was their best time ever in front of the camera. So whatever your passion we’ve got you covered … GUARANTEED!
17.) Fairview Great House & Botanical Garden Fairview Great House and Botanical Garden is an attraction like no other here in beautiful St. Kitts. Nestled at the foot of Olives Mountain, enjoy a guided walk around the great house which is believed to have been initially built in 1701 by the French. This Great House has had many owners and inhabitants over the years, each leaving their mark and contributing to the unique history of the property. We also operate a number of Tours from this location including our Caribbean Flavours Cooks Tour; Fairview Rum Tour.
18.) Firefly Estate Bequia A fun and interesting guided Plantation Tour. Explore the lush and tropical plantation surrounding the Firefly Estate, which produces guava, mango, bananas, breadfruit, Bequia plums, and a variety of wonderful and exotic crops. You get to crush your own sugar cane to make juice, sample many of the fruits and vegetables in season and learn about coconuts, bananas and the uses of the various herbs and flowers you will see. Stay on for lunch or drinks afterwards in our friendly, open air, restaurant. Many of the dishes utilize what you will have seen growing on the Estate. Approx 45 mins, 'Plantation Tours' ec$15 per person. Private tours are $100 (maximum 6 persons) Fun for the whole family. Children are welcome.
19.) Royal Mount Carmel Falls Comprising two sublime waterfalls that plunge more than 70 feet into crystal pools. Together they make up the island's highest waterfall.
20.) Royal Naval Dockyard Built in the early 1800s, this dockyard is now the largest museum in Bermuda and features exhibits on the island's maritime history.
21.) Punta Higuera LightHouse The lighthouse is a must do. Multiple lookout stations with breathtaking views. There’s a little bar at the end of the walk where you can grab a beverage cliff-side and watch the waves break into domes.
22.) Dark View Falls Dark View Falls are two spectacular waterfalls, one above the other, cascading down high cliff faces and plunging into natural pools. The waterfalls flow all year from a tributary of the Richmond River. A natural Bamboo bridge spans the tumbling river, luring you to the two majestic falls. Facilities at the site include restrooms, gazebo, viewing platform and changing rooms.
Another breathtaking waterfall Catarata La Coca A premier attraction of El Yunque Rain Forest, these dramatic waterfalls cascade down mossy cliffs, where the more adventurous can climb up slippery rocks to its base for a closer look.
23.) The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas The Heritage Museum of The Bahamas opened in July 2014, and is the foundation of Graycliff's new Heritage Village. Located in the historically preserved Mountbatten House on West Hill Street, the museum offers visitors an in depth look at the history and heritage of The Bahamas, ranging from the prehistoric times to today. The majority of the collection exhibited at the museum is owned by Hamilton White, a well-known British antiques collector. Mr. White's expansive collection greatly complements all that lies on historical West Hill Street, with relics and treasures spanning the centuries to include natural history and fossils, the days of Columbus, the piracy era, slavery and plantation life, the Maritimes of the 18th century, life in the out islands during the early 1900's, the days of the Duke of Windsor, the Royal Air Force, Bahamas Speed Weeks, and so much more.... The oldest of artefacts being a slice of a meteorite which is approximately 4.5 billion years old
24.) Cruceta Del Vigia Cruceta del Vigia is a 100 feet tall cross located atop Vigia Hill in Ponce, across from Museo Castillo Serralles. It houses a tourist center at its base, a ten-story vertical tower, and a horizontal sky bridge that has panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can reach the skybridge via glass elevators or a staircase. Made of reinforced concrete, the cross has withstood various natural disasters. The arms of the cross measure 70 feet. It was inaugurated in 1984. Owned by the Town of Ponce and is currently operated by the "Patronato de Ponce '', a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and administering several of the city's landmarks.
25.) Reserva Ecológica Ojos Indígenas (Los Ojos Eco Journey) Immerse yourself in nature and learn about all renowned ecological projects on a guided tour featuring our efforts to protect and restore the Dominican Republic's unique species and develop innovative sustainable projects. The tour includes detailed explanations and visits to see the endemic Rhinoceros Iguana, the Apiary, the endemic Ridgway's Hawks, our YAUYA store, and last but not least our Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve (Inriri lagune).
26.) Fort Montagu The oldest fort on the island, also a place to kick back and relax on well-manicured lawns overlooking the ocean.
27.) Fortaleza San Felipe One of the first European forts to be constructed in the Americas.
28.) Musée Costumes et Traditions This Museum shows you the heritage of the past of Guadeloupe and various parts of the world (Caribbean). The museum reveals the reality of the cultural heritage in very diverse areas such as: - Clothing - Anthropological - Lifestyle - Games and toys - Religious practices - Beliefs - Space flowers and medicinal plants - Life in the box and in the kitchen of yesteryear This museum is not limited to Guadeloupe, but also refers to: - Egyptian Antiquities - Greek - Roman Antiquities - Asia with India - West Africa - Ancient America - The Caribbean World - Europe with the Napoleonic fashion
29.) Laguna El Dudu Laguna Dudu is an exciting and mostly unknown paradise located on the north east coast of the Dominican Republic. It's surrounded by natural cliffs from which to swim, snorkel or free dive into refreshing clear waters. If you love adrenaline rush then try a zip line freefall from 10 meters. You may need to take a deep breath for this adventure. Once you finally takeoff for a subjective six seconds drop in thin air, and finish with a big splash. But it's also a spot worth visiting for it offers a cave to explore, a beautiful cove with other challenging experiences. There are stairs leading down to the water which enables smooth and easy access to both lagoons. With nature to explore and plenty of photographic spots. A visit to Laguna Dudu can easily be combined with two additional beach activities since it's located within minutes between two playas (beaches) Diamante and Arroyo Salado. Your next adventure awaits you. Come, explore and show us your favorite spot.
30.) Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center Ponce is home to The Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center, an ancient Taino village. It was initially discovered by a charcoal maker from the area, when a large flood in 1975 uncovered the buried remains--which were later shown to be a group of ceremonial plazas and ball fields. Some researchers suggest that, because of their placements, the plazas might have also been used as astral observatories. The largest indigenous cemetery, containing 186 skeletons, was also found. This site is considered to be one of the most important historical and archeological sites in the Antilles.
There is so much history packed into the islands. Go enjoy yourself and soak up the beauty of a beautiful beach at every turn. I hope that you take the time to really deep dive and immerse yourself in the history of these islands and learn about the important history that they have.
I hope that you have enjoyed this week's tour and come back next week for another amazing adventure. Remember to always be kind as it costs nothing and if you see someone without a smile stop and give them yours a smile is contagious and you never know whose life you could save simply by being kind and when it comes to kindness sprinkle it everywhere the world needs more of it.
Written by: BeautifulChaos318
