Essenceofthecaribbean.com is a niche travel website promoting small and authentic places to stay throughout the islands.  The site, aimed primarily at independent travellers, connects its users to properties which tend to not be featured in tour operator programs, which offer an insight into the 'real Caribbean and which make you remember you are in the Caribbean.

 

Whether your preference is for a bed and breakfast, plantation inn, villa, eco-resort or small hotel, these properties reflect the islands through their location, style, colour, historical significance, product offering or the personal island hospitality of the hosts.  Our selection ranges from those which are quirky, rustic and off-the-beaten track to those which are high-end luxury with private staff catering to your needs.  Some of them offer intimacy and attention of a host family, some are ideal for sharing in groups and others are themselves truly an outdoor adventure.  As we discover these gems we will be increasing our selection and also the types of accommodation presented.  We welcome receiving your recommendations and feedback on our portfolio.

 

The site also provides details on activities which you can do while in the islands.  We have partnered with an established international tour company to enable you to book some tours online.  For others, we are happy to connect you with the local on-island suppliers who provide the tours. 

 

 

 

 

 

About Me

My background is in hotel management with several years managing resorts in the Caribbean.  Currently living in the UK (for the past 6 years), I have been a Tourism Consultant for my native island St. Kitts for 3 years.  Since moving to this side of the world, my passion and pride have grown for the ‘real Caribbean’ – the one where visitors feel the culture and spirit of the islands and their people.  It’s about getting an experience rather than having a ‘place to stay’, tasting the local food rather than reading about it, learning arts and culture with locals rather than participating just in the mainstream tourist activities.  Whether it’s the off-the-beaten track experience or one of high luxury, it’s possible to get the ‘real feel’ through a combination of where visitors stay, who they meet, activities they do and food they eat. 

 

There are many hidden gems in the islands which offer just this but they need more channels for exposure.  Essenceofthecaribbean.com has been launched with this task, to connect the many independent travellers searching for authenticity with island partners who can satisfy their need.

 

Come on, experience the authentic Caribbean!

Lisa