Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/3108
Black Meetings & Tourism April/May 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 128 ThE CaRiBBEan: nORThERn REGiOn BY NORMAN MAYERS There are so many options within the Caribbean for travelers to choose from. From the tip of Florida to the coasts of Venezuela there are dozens of island destinations to explore, each with a dis- tinct flavor. For travelers coming from the United States, the islands in the Northern Region of the Caribbean offer a considerable amount of value because of their close proximity. Within relatively short flights from New York, Atlanta, and Miami, visitors can discov- er island destinations like the Bahamas, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to name a few. The islands of the Bahamas are a 100,000-sq. mi. archipelago that extends over 500 miles of the clearest waters in the world. The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands including uninhabited cays and large rocks, totaling an estimated land area of 5,382 sq. mi. with the high- est land elevation at 206 ft. Most notable, however, is that each island has its own diversity that continues beyond geography. The Bahamian people are humble and pleasant and part of the reason that so many return year after year. The islands themselves offer some of the most beautiful sights found any- where. Pristine waters, world-class div- ing, exquisite resorts and impeccable service define the Bahamas, a place that seems like it stepped right out of a dream. Tourism is the driving force on these islands, accounting for 70% of the revenue generated and employing half of the workforce. With approximately 15,000 hotel rooms spread across the islands, there is plenty to choose from no matter what your taste or budget. Located just an hour south of Miami, the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands is a tranquil Caribbean paradise that beckons travelers with its seaside golfing, starlight dining and cozy beach bungalows. The islands of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are remarkably crime free envi- ronments that boast some of the world's most fabulous hotels and best diving. Grand Cayman is the most cosmopoli- tan of the three islands, blending rich local history with international attrac- tions to create a wonderfully unique atmosphere. The island offers over 250 dive sites with some of the greatest underwater diversity anywhere in the world. Deep, dramatic walls covered with corals and sponges, shallow reefs and an assortment of wrecks are all available, making the island an excellent diving destination for both seasoned pros and new divers. A can't miss attrac- tion is Stingray City, where you can swim with gentle stingrays, up close and personal. Jamaica is the largest English speak- ing island nation in the Caribbean, measuring some 4,244 sq. mi. Jamaica's location, just 200 miles from Florida in the western Caribbean Sea, is perfect for any business-related activity and is considered the convention capital of the Caribbean. The casual atmosphere and exotic environment are guaranteed to build morale and productivity. But more than that, Jamaica is one of the Caribbean's most popular destinations, providing dozens of exotic resorts, miles of fabulous beaches, and some of the best music in the world. Being such a large island, Jamaica is several destina- tions rolled into one. Kingston is the financial, intellectual and commercial core of the island. Seven miles of white sand beaches are the focal point of Negril, while Montego Bay is a busy, bustling resort community. Ocho Rios is the place where, the locals say, heaven spills into the sea. Puerto Rico is 110 miles long and 35 miles wide. There is so much to do and AREA GUIDES CaRiBBEan REGiOn Couple Snorkeling in the Bahamas Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Montego Bay Photo Credit: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Photo Credit: Jamaica Tourism Board