St. Vincent

6

While most of the picks are best known for their crystal-clear Caribbean cays and sugar-sand beaches, the island nation on our No. 6 spot counts volcanic-rich soils, mountainous terrain and abundant flora among its natural wonders. For a change of scenery on your Caribbean vacation, there’s no finer vantage point than St. Vincent!

Things to know:

Related activities The best way to experience St. Vincent’s inner core is on a Jeep safari tour of the island’s remote villages, tangled rainforests and twisting mountain roads.

Fun facts The history and landmarks of the Black Caribs (Garifuna people) are essential parts of St. Vincent’s modern culture.

Highlights The Owia Salt Pond, located on St. Vincent’s coast, is a naturally-formed “bathing pool” made by a lava bowl filled with the Atlantic Ocean’s waters.

It’s not uncommon to see the outlines of a volcano on St. Vincent’s vast horizon, including one of the world’s most studied hot spots – La Soufriêre. But gazing upon this geological wonder’s splendor is not for the faint of heart; a strenuous half-day hike is usually required to reach its base. Down on the island’s western corner, the intimidating form of St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral looms in the distance. While we’ve yet to confirm a ghost within its stately walls, this 1823 landmark’s bricks – crafted from nearly black volcanic sands – add a gloomy air to its otherwise impressive Moorish and Romanesque architecture.

For a peek at the island’s national bird, the St. Vincent parrot, make for the Leeward coast’s beloved botanical gardens – the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. But don’t visit solely for the brightly-feathered fowl; the gardens’ exotic flora is more than deserving of a second glance!