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THE CLIMATE
The Caribbean consist of numerous islands with a
tropical/subtropical climate. The average temperature is 75°F. The months
of May until October are the hottest and suffer the most humidity. Day
temperatures during those months may reach easily 86 degrees and more.
The tropical rainshowers are dense but usually of short duration. From
November till April the temperature drops to a comfortable 70 degrees,
the sea temperature however will still remain higher than this. It is the
“dry” season, with light winds and only scattered showers. Ideal for a
sailing cruise, outside the hurricane season.
Light, cotton clothes are the best. Casual wear
is usual in hotels and on the streets. It is however not appreciated if
you walk down the streets in your bathing suits.
VARIOUS
The voltage in the Caribbean is mostly 120Volts/ 60Hz. Adapters may
be needed when you come from Europe.
Shopping in the Islands may be interesting,
specifically for low priced brand garments. A large number of goods are
not taxed on some of the islands:
alcohol, crystal, watches, leather goods, perfume etc.
There is a multitude of shops. Compare the
prices!
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THE CARRIBEAN
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MONEY AND OTHER
PRACTICALITIES
Most
of the islands are independent and have their own currency. Examples are
the Trinidad and Tobago dollar and the Caribbean dollar.
One
can pay everywhere in USD.
Most
major credit cards are excepted everywhere.
Banks
are open from Monday till Friday from 9.30 AM till 5
PM. (they may close earlier on Friday).
There
are lots of ATM’s that operate
24/7.
Costs
may be incurred when using ATM’s to get money from your foreign bank
account.
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TRAVEL
DOCUMENTS
Is
is necessary to carry your passport to visit theCaribbean (except for the
French islands Guadeloupe and Martinique.) This must be valid until at
least 6 months after your departure from the island. Should you plan to
stay longer then 4 months, you should contact the consulate. You will
receive documents during your flight that you will have to fill out.
Don’t forget that a departure tax is due in cash on some islands, approximately 20 USD.
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