5 ways to explore the Caribbean sustainably – Rum, cocktails, and fine sands galore!

Exploring the Caribbean Island on bikes is fast becoming popular with eager visitors currently! So why not consider swapping the usual safari ride for a tour on two wheels?  Tourists can rent their bikes of choice from reputed rental shops located along the thoroughfare of St. Lawrence Gap. Exploring the diverse coastline and hidden treasures of the region can be done via biking, which also provides the opportunity to make new local acquaintances and discover an alternative aspect of this famous travel spot. RutaBikes and Bike St Lucia are some of the bike tour operators worth considering.

While weekend escapes and weeklong vacations are the norm for most visitors to the  Caribbean, this idyllic region is a great place to explore slowly and thoroughly over a period of months.  Slowing down not only offers one the chance to really delve into the culture, unique topography, music, history, and cuisine of the various islands of the Caribbean; in addition to reducing your carbon footprint. There are many Inter Caribbean flights including the likes of InterCaribbean Airways that offer great rates which could possibly cater to this option.

Is there a better way to understand and learn about local cuisine than by hopping on a food tour or signing up for a cooking class? In addition to the enjoyable experience of trying out delightful new dishes, it's also an excellent means of aiding the Caribbean's local communities and agriculture! Doing your bit to support local food production means you will be supporting the nation’s efforts to lower dependency on exports.  Other great options for cultural immersion include island tours or dance workshops offered by a cooperative or a community organisation. Make it a point to stay away from tour companies that don’t collaborate with locals and promote cultural experiences as a mere add-on experience as a way to attract unsuspecting tourists.

Whether is paintings, textiles, or jewellery, the Caribbean is home to many talented and innovative artists.  For ceramics make your way to Earthworks in Barbados while speciality stores such as Galeria Bolos located in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City would do for hand-sculpted art. Knowing what grows in the Caribbean islands such as spices, rum, tobacco, coffee, and chocolate, and making it a point to purchase these straight from the local stores and factories is a good idea.

From regenerative farms and wildlife protection to coral replanting initiatives, the Caribbean is home to several incredible conservation projects. Stand-out ones include Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve, Jaragua National Park, Valle Nuevo National Park, and the Sierra de Bahoruco