The Caribbean’s Resilience: Top Islands to Visit

Paradise wasn’t lost, but it surely suffered. Hurricanes Irma and Maria bore down on the Caribbean last fall, affecting nearly 30 percent of the region. What’s incredible to see is that our readers voted in support of those in need: nine out of the 15 islands on this year’s World’s Best list were impacted by the storms, especially St. John, Virgin Gorda, and Vieques. Some will spend years recovering, while others, like Anguilla, are rebounding with remarkable speed. What all of these favorites have in common is unrivaled beauty and rich histories that outlive nature’s tempests.

A Celebration of Caribbean Travel

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe. Readers share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In this survey, islands were rated based on activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.

Emerging Destinations

Cuba marks its first appearance since 2011, signaling its growing popularity among Americans. “It’s as if you stepped in a time travel machine,” writes one reader, noting the charm of old buildings and classic cars in Havana. Another reader praises the vibrant culture, mentioning, “Expect a slower pace.”

Timeless Appeal

However, the other islands also possess a time-stands-still quality. For instance, Bermuda may now boast notable luxury hotels, such as The Loren, yet the iconic shores of Elbow Beach and Horseshoe Bay remain uncrowded. The charming streets of the capital city, Hamilton, retain their historical allure as they did 50 years ago.

As one reader describes the Exumas, an archipelago of 365 cays in the Bahamas, “less touristy, with great local food and fishing.” Moreover, the activity that everyone clamors for: swimming with pigs, remains a cherished experience.