Which Caribbean Islands Should You Visit this Winter?

Protravel International, which has signed on to the One Caribbean Family Ambassador campaign, surveyed its members for their tips on which islands to visit this winter.

Protravel, a division of Travel Leaders Elite, is made up of luxury agencies that serve the VIP leisure, entertainment and corporate markets. Together with the Caribbean tourism industry, Protravel's goal is to educate travelers in support of the Caribbean and help stabilize the regional economy.

The One Caribbean Family campaign is aimed at supporting the islands that have remained open for business in the wake of this fall's hurricanes, and jump-starting the recovery of those that have suffered.

Protravel agents say clients can still experience unforgettable vacations not far from home. The areas they recommend include the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Nevis and St. Kitts, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Barbados and Canouan.

"Particularly for our East Coast clients, the Caribbean is a very popular vacation destination, in part due to the proximity for a long-weekend getaway, convenient flights, warm weather, and beautiful beaches," said Gail Grimmett, Protravel International's president.

"We want to make sure travelers are aware that over 70 percent of the destinations in the Caribbean were not affected by the recent hurricanes and are open for business."

Here are the Protravel agents' recommendations:

The Bahamas - Eleuthera or Paradise Island

"Harbour Island, Eleuthera, is my favorite quiet island with beautiful bright pink sand beaches along its eastern shore. Travelers can enjoy horseback riding on the beach, diving, boat charters to other small islands, and good food." -Diane Beber, Protravel, Miami

"Another great place in the Caribbean is the One&Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island in the Bahamas - it is completely renovated and simply beautiful."-Ann St Hilaire, Protravel, New York, New York

Barbados

"Travelers should consider a trip to Barbados, a cruise-ship port with colonial buildings; great beaches; botanical gardens, where they can enjoy afternoon tea; the national sport, cricket; or visit the Harrison's Cave formation. Barbados is known for its white and pink sand beaches, laid-back atmosphere and touch of British gentility. For clients who desire to stay at a boutique hotel, the Colony Club is a great choice and provides wonderful ambience, fine food, service, and tennis courts." -Loesken Vanderpoel, Protravel, Chicago

Canouan

"The small Caribbean island of Canouan, belonging to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is a great vacation destination with its beautiful white beaches and calm waters just 20 minutes from Barbados. The island is small and the perfect place for a romantic getaway to relax and rejuvenate your senses. I recommend a stay at the Pink Sands Club, which is a romantic and glamorous luxury beach hotel with five-star dining and stunning ocean views." -Frank Toth, Protravel, New York, New York

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